Tony Read serves as the Brand President of Hickory Tavern.
With over 30 years in the food and beverage industry, Tony brings a strong background in driving growth and innovation. Previously, he was a Joint Venture Partner at Outback Steakhouse, where he played a pivotal role in launching Off-Premises Dining services — an initiative he helped develop from the ground up that evolved into a successful revenue channel for the organization.
Throughout his career, Tony has been dedicated to people development and operational excellence. He has built programs focused on talent growth and P&L management, believing firmly that nurturing individuals is essential for organizational success. His collaborative approach allows him to work closely with leadership teams and stakeholders to address challenges and seize market opportunities.
At Hickory Tavern, Tony channels his experience and commitment to excellence into creating memorable dining experiences for guests while fostering a culture of teamwork and growth.
Tony graduated with a Bachelor of Science from North Carolina State University, where he also played on the tennis team — fueling a lifelong passion for the sport. Outside of work, he enjoys golf, hiking, and staying active. Tony is married to Amy, and together they have three children.
