Restaurateur Michael Schulson plans to open three new locations next year, which will add to his thirteen existing Philadelphia restaurants, writes Emma Dooling for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

The Schulson Collective, which operates Dear Daphni in Rittenhouse Square and Independence Beer Garden in Old City among other popular spots, will not change its restaurant hours or overwork employees in response to the hundreds of thousands of visitors expected in the city next summer.

Schulson is currently developing strategies on how to adjust to a busy June and July, which are typically slow for local restaurants, without eroding company culture and employee morale.

“I’m not a big believer in changing things,” he said. “We do what we do. … When you start doing things to the detriment of your team, to benefit your wallet, you ultimately lose.”

Schulson did not disclose any details on the new concepts he is working on.

In addition to the three new restaurants planned for Philadelphia, Schulson is extending his reach beyond the region by opening locations of his popular local sushi spot Double Knot in both New York and Delray Beach, Florida.

Read more about Michael Schulson and his big plans for 2026 in the Philadelphia Business Journal.

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