Black Napkin

Black Napkin is a casual takeout restaurant based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, that specializes in smash burgers, buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches, and handcrafted sodas. The establishment operates exclusively through direct walk-in sales without an online ordering system, focusing on premium ingredients sourced from regional suppliers like Michigan Craft Beef. The business evolved from the artisanal confection brand Any Colour You Like, integrating its original popsicle offerings into a broader food service menu. The culinary and operational direction is managed by a core team that includes executive chef Jason Richardson and designer Aaron McCall. While specific financial metrics, valuation figures, and employee counts remain undisclosed, the company maintains a localized mom-and-pop operational structure within the broader casual dining sector. Although the exact founding year is currently unknown, Black Napkin was established by founder Korin Hollinshead.

Based on the search results provided, Black Napkin is a casual dining restaurant located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, rather than a technology or investment firm.[2]

High-Level Overview

Black Napkin operates as a burger-focused restaurant and food brand that emphasizes quality ingredients and handcrafted products.[2] The establishment serves smash burgers, sides, and house-made sodas, alongside a separate artisanal popsicle operation that the owners run in parallel.[1][2] The restaurant's core mission centers on obsessive attention to detail and consistency in both hospitality and product quality, with a team-oriented culture where most staff members have been with the business since its opening.[2]

Origin Story

Black Napkin emerged from the owners' existing popsicle brand, which they expanded by opening a burger joint and storefront to complement their established business.[1] Executive Chef Jason Richardson leads the culinary operations and has built a cohesive team culture focused on quality and creativity.[2] The restaurant's development has been collaborative, with the owners working closely with designer Aaron McCall to establish a brand identity that authentically communicates their vision and fits their local market.[1]

Core Differentiators

• Premium ingredient sourcing: Uses Michigan Craft Beef, described as "the best in the state"[2]
• Handcrafted products: Produces house-made sodas and artisanal popsicles alongside food offerings[2]
• Smash burger specialization: Features crispy-edge smash burgers as a signature item[2]
• Integrated brand experience: Combines food, beverage, and confectionery under a unified brand philosophy[1][2]
• Team stability and culture: Maintains long-tenured staff committed to the business vision[2]

The search results do not provide sufficient information to address the investment firm framework or broader tech landscape analysis, as Black Napkin operates in the food service sector rather than technology or finance.