While Las Vegas was once known predominantly for casinos, it has become a destination for people who love great drinks and delicious food. That has made the city one of the most competitive markets for restaurant and bar owners. The founder and CEO of 81/82 Group, a company that has thrived in that landscape, spoke to Men’s Journal about his journey, his approach to hospitality, and the rule that guides his business.
Ryan Labbe’s Journey From Barback to Hospitality CEO
81/82 Group is a Las Vegas hospitality company that was founded by Ryan Labbe. He told Men’s Journal about deciding to build something of his own after getting his start as a barback in Providence, Rhode Island. “I realized I was putting the same amount of time, energy, and obsession into building somebody else’s dreams that I could be putting into my own.”
Since starting 81/82 Group, Labbe has focused on looking for gaps in the hospitality market that he can fill. As he explained, he asks himself, “What’s missing in the market? Why would somebody choose us? What should the room feel like? Who is the customer?”
That philosophy has led to the company creating several distinct dining concepts, including a hidden late-night bar and a neighborhood breakfast spot…