Age: 38
Job Title: Co-owner and Director of Operations, RGE RD
If you are a regular reader of our Best Restaurants issue, then you are already familiar with Caitlin Fulton’s RGE RD — a restaurant that’s been at or near the top in the Best Overall category since 2014.
But it’s important to Fulton to constantly evaluate how RGE RD participates in the community, builds restaurant culture and prioritizes the customer experience. The resulting positive effects are evident: Many of RGE RD’s staff have been part of the team since its early days, and many regulars have been there since its doors opened. Customers have chosen RGE RD as a place to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and even commemorate lives lost after a funeral or memorial.
“When I think about the connections I have had with people over the years, that is when I think that our restaurant is really making a difference,” Fulton says. “I never take for granted that we are part of the milestones in people’s lives.”
When a RGE RD employee received a serious cancer diagnosis, the entire RGE RD team and industry colleagues came together to host and donate to a fundraiser for his family.
“We had what seemed to be the whole neighbourhood show up, and of course many of the familiar dining guests we’ve gotten to know over the years.” Fulton says. “I’m so proud to be a part of that community spirit and have a part in making a space where this could happen.”
This article appears in the November 2020 issue of Edify
