In a recent interview, RHchairman and CEO Gary Friedman said, "It wasn't the internet thatkilled retail stores; it was a lack of imagination and investment."Many retail brands are feeling the pressure of creating a uniqueand innovative experience to survive. Restaurants seem to be theanswer. Retailers like RH—formerly Restoration Hardware—are usingrestaurants to curate that unique experience.

"I recently visited RH New York, which reclaimed portions of aniconic, old brick building in the Meatpacking District inside theformer Pastis Restaurant, and it beautifully blends the past andthe present in its 90,000-square-foot space," CarlosLopez, EVP at Hanley Investment Group,tells GlobeSt.com. "It truly is an experience! The RH experiencebegins the moment you set foot in the store—as you make your waythrough a sky lit, six-story central atrium and ascend in a glasselevator, you are transported through four stories, each dedicatedto specific categories of furnishings, including Modern, Interiors,Outdoor, Baby & Child and Teen, and includes its interiordesign firm."

Next comes the restaurant experience, which is one-of-a-kind."The Rooftop Restaurant and wine terrace has breathtaking cityviews and a lush garden experience," describes Lopez. "Thedelicious restaurant food and stunning chandeliers that hang fromthe ceiling and illuminate the tables both elevate the experienceeven further."