Ep #45: The 2026 Financial Playbook for Restaurant Owners with CFO Matt Granville
- ptotah
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
How should restaurant owners and operators think about 2026 from a financial perspective? In this episode, we step back and talk through what it really takes to stay profitable in the current restaurant landscape, from planning ahead and adapting to cost pressure to building the right financial mindset for the year ahead.
We’re joined by Matt Granville, a longtime restaurant executive with deep experience in finance and operations, most recently serving as CFO and COO of a multi-unit barbecue concept. Together, we discuss how strong operators approach budgeting, forecasting, and prime cost management, why waiting for monthly reports is often too late, and how daily operational decisions show up directly on the P&L.
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We also get into what has changed over the years, including rising labor costs, tighter margins, and the growing impact of third-party delivery, as well as what still holds true for restaurants that perform well. This conversation is about using the right tools, staying disciplined, and making proactive decisions that help restaurants stay resilient and competitive moving into 2026.
If you’re considering selling your business and would like a free consultation, reach out to patrickAndAndy@therestaurantsalesbroker.com or visit TheRestaurantSalesBroker.com to learn more.
What You’ll Learn from this Episode:
Why the best time to sell often comes before you feel ready to walk away.
The difference between selling when you want to and selling when you have to.
How business health, market demand, and personal readiness intersect.
Why waiting too long can quietly erode value.
What buyers tend to look for when timing is working in a seller’s favor.
How early preparation creates more options and leverage.
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