Toast Inc. Partners with Food Critic Keith Lee to Celebrate Restaurants

Toast Inc. (NYSE: TOST), a leader in restaurant technology solutions, has announced an exciting collaboration with renowned food critic Keith Lee to honor outstanding restaurants. This initiative, which officially kicks off today, will see three select restaurants each receive a $50,000 grant over the coming weeks. The partnership aligns with Toast’s ongoing commitment to support the restaurant community, particularly in light of the challenges faced in recent years.

The initiative is centered around three critical categories that define exceptional dining experiences: *Commitment to Hospitality, Community Connection,* and *Employee Care and Engagement.* Keith Lee, known for his keen eye for detail and understanding of what makes a restaurant truly special, has already chosen the first two recipients. The third restaurant will be determined through social media nominations, providing a unique opportunity for the public to engage in the celebration.

“As guests, we often see only what arrives on the plate, while restaurants orchestrate a complex symphony of details,” said Kelly Esten, Chief Marketing Officer at Toast. “We’re delighted to work with Keith Lee to recognize some truly special businesses.”

The nominations for the third restaurant will be open until April 25 at 12 AM ET. Here’s how participants can get involved:

This collaboration is part of Toast’s broader *Little Things* campaign, which began earlier this year. The initiative aims to highlight the often-overlooked details that contribute to memorable dining experiences.

In January, Toast debuted *One of Those Nights*, a captivating video short featuring chef and actor Matty Matheson at the upscale restaurant Marea in New York City. This film showcased how Toast technology enables restaurants to handle challenging service scenarios effectively.

Additionally, on April 2, Toast will launch *Signature Dish with Sophia Roe*, where the host engages in intimate conversations with industry friends about the little details that enhance dining experiences. Toast has also partnered with industry influencer Danny Grubs, who will provide a candid look at the inner workings of top chefs through engaging content.

Toast Inc.'s partnership with Keith Lee is a testament to the company's dedication to celebrating the restaurant industry and the unique experiences it offers. By rewarding exceptional establishments and encouraging community participation, this initiative not only recognizes the hard work and creativity of restaurant owners and staff but also strengthens the bonds within the dining community. As Toast continues to innovate and support the industry, it remains a key player in transforming the restaurant experience through technology and heartfelt recognition.