RUSS BENDEL JR.
OWNER/PARTNER
RJB RESTAURANT GROUP
WHY: Owner and operator of several restaurants in OC; portfolio started with purchase of Vine Restaurant + Bar in San Clemente in 2013 and continued to expand with his partners as RJB Group.
IN THE NEWS: Opened Parlor pizzeria in San Clemente in July, across from Vine, marking the seventh restaurant in OC for Bendel and partners, Chef Jared Cook, Beverage Director Gabe Whorley and Operations VP Kyle Simpson.
NOTABLE: Named Business Journal’s Restaurateur of the Year in 2018.
QUOTABLE: When asked about continuing to open dining concepts in OC, Bendel said he can depend on his partners and the growing team at each restaurant to be consistent and successful. “You need good food, good service and a great location.”
