2025 Power 100: Caitlyn Carolan
Photo | COUrtesy of Worcester Restaurant Group
Caitlyn Carolan, president of Worcester Restaurant Group
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The parent company of VIA Italian Table, One Eleven Chop House, and the Sole Proprietor, Worcester Restaurant Group has been a staple of the Central Massachusetts culinary scene for nearly half a century. Carolan, daughter of company founders Robb and Madeleine Ahlquist, grew up in the business. After trying different pathways after college, she returned to the company in 2007 to manage and book private parties. She was the general manager of VIA for six years before becoming chief operating officer in 2016 and president in 2020. Her husband, Keith, is now the company’s COO.
Last summer, Carolan took the extraordinary step of closing VIA for a week to do a full kitchen renovation. Almost every piece of equipment was replaced, new fryers were added, and workspaces were refreshed. Part of the reason, Carolan said, was inspiration from her son with celiac disease to add more gluten-free options to the menu. The renovation worked out well, and now VIA boasts a wide array of gluten free options.
Five years after COVID, Worcester Restaurant Group is thriving, Carolan said. The company sold more than $1 million in gift cards over the holidays for the past two years, and sales are growing year after year.
Laura Finaldi is a former WBJ reporter and current freelance writer.
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