In the vibrant sphere of Washington D.C.’s dining industry, Shawn Townsend stands at the forefront as the president and CEO of Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW).
Since taking over the organization in January 2023, Townsend has witnessed both the celebrations and challenges faced by restaurants and bars in the nation’s capital.
His background as the director of the D.C. Mayor’s Office of Nightlife and Culture makes him well-equipped to navigate the complex landscape of this dynamic industry.
During Townsend’s tenure in that role, he managed to support businesses struggling during the pandemic.
“I was fortunate to be on the front lines advocating for relief,” he noted, focusing on the necessity of addressing the needs of the hospitality sector amidst uncertainty.
This advocacy work seamlessly transitioned Townsend into his current role, where he now collaborates with over 1,500 member businesses to fortify the dining community.
The mission of RAMW, according to Townsend, is to create environments that nurture this community while advocating for policies that enhance the industry and opposing those detrimental to it.
The D.C. restaurant sector is emerging from the pandemic but continues to face a slew of challenging conditions.
Townsend highlighted pressing issues such as federal workforce reductions, rising operating costs, and significant policy shifts including Initiative 82.
Initiative 82, which aimed to phase out the tipped minimum wage, garnered voter approval in 2022 and intended full elimination by 2027.
However, complications surrounding its implementation and strong pushback from industry stakeholders led the District Council to mitigate its effects in July 2023, preserving the tipped minimum wage while gradually increasing pay rates.
Reflecting on the initiative’s trajectory, Townsend stated, “The goal for RAMW has always been to support the workers and ensure that restaurants thrive.”
While he acknowledged the original intentions behind Initiative 82, he expressed concern over the unforeseen consequences it produced.
“The outcomes became very alarming,” he pointed out, commending the Council’s decision to adopt a more balanced approach after months of advocacy and coalition building.
Despite supporting a full repeal of the initiative, Townsend considered the compromise a positive step towards immediate relief and a more robust future.
In addition to the challenges posed by Initiative 82, the city faces further pressures such as the deployment of the National Guard on District streets.
Commentary from Eater indicated that restaurant reservations have plummeted by more than 30 percent compared to the previous year, with many restaurant owners reporting visibly quiet dining spaces.
The troop deployment coincided with Summer Restaurant Week—a RAMW initiative aimed at boosting patronage during slower months—leading to further concern about the industry’s recovery.
Yet, despite these obstacles, Townsend maintains a sense of optimism as 2023 unfolds.
“There’s still more work to be done,” he affirmed, fueled by the collective voice of advocates shaping legislation and regulations designed to benefit the restaurant industry in the DMV area.
Townsend emphasized the importance of celebrating D.C.’s diverse dining offerings, recognizing restaurants as vital components of neighborhood life and cultural exchange.
When it comes to dining out himself, he shared his recent culinary experiences, which include meals at Café Fiorello, Balos, the Park at 14th, and El Presidente.
He particularly enjoyed the fried chicken at Cork Wine Bar & Market and the Fancy Ranch Amish Fried Chicken at Union Market, along with praises for the crab rice at Marcus DC.
For drinks, Ciel and Kata are amongst his new favorites.
As Townsend continues his leadership at RAMW, he stands ready to advocate for and support D.C.’s restaurant community in this ever-evolving landscape.
image source from：georgetowner
