When Anita Adams stepped into the role of CEO in January 2020, Black Bear Diner was entering a pivotal new chapter—its first leadership transition since founders Bruce Dean and Bob Manley opened the original diner in Mt. Shasta, California, in 1995. As Adams shared during a Fireside Chat at FSR’s NextGen Restaurant Summit in Atlanta, the responsibility was clear: protect the legacy that franchise partners, team members, and guests hold dear, while building the structure needed for thoughtful, long-term growth.
With previous experience scaling multi-brand restaurant organizations, Adams focused on strengthening Black Bear Diner’s operational and financial foundation—without altering what makes the brand special. From cabin-inspired diners filled with carved bears and mountain imagery to a newspaper-style menu that tells the brand’s story, preserving Black Bear Diner’s heritage remained a priority. “We didn’t want to change who we are,” Adams emphasized, underscoring the importance of culture, people, and franchise partnerships.
Today, Black Bear Diner has grown from 138 locations to 160 family-friendly diners across the country, serving hearty comfort food and all-day breakfast in welcoming, community-focused spaces. With an eye toward continued franchise-focused expansion, Adams’ leadership reflects a balance of honoring the past while ensuring Black Bear Diner is positioned to scale sustainably for the future.