Join us for an inspiring conversation with Chef Anthony "Tony" Hayes, the founder of Classic Eats and the lifestyle brand "Every Day is Monday" (EDM). A true example of turning "hustle into heritage," Tony shares his journey from the streets of New Orleans to becoming a culinary staple in Washington state.

In this interview, Chef Tony breaks down his "started from the bottom" philosophy. He details why he believes every successful restaurant owner must know every position in the house—from dishwasher to bartender—to truly earn respect and manage effectively.

We dive into his roots in New Orleans, cooking as a necessity with a single mom, and how that evolved into a passion for feeding the masses. Tony also discusses the reality of the restaurant industry, his unique leadership style that prioritizes his staff’s quality o ...