West Hartford Native Joining CNBC's 'Restaurant Startup'

West Hartford native Elizabeth Blau is joining CNBC’s “Restaurant Startup” this Wednesday, Jan. 27.

Blau, a restaurant consultant, joins Tim Love at the deal table, as two teams look to spin off fast-casual restaurants from their existing concepts.

Blau started in the restaurant business at age 16. She was the taco girl at a local Irish-Mexican Cantina called Pancho McGee’s in West Hartford.

• To sign up for West Hartford breaking news alerts and more, click here.

In this week’s episode, which airs at 10 p.m., “a couple from Dallas is spicing up the standard slider at Full Circle Tavern, while a Houston trio is introducing the rich flavors of South Africa to a wider audience at Peli Peli Kitchen. Which team will impress the investors and win a chance to expand their realm?”

Read more about “Restaurant Startup” from the press release below:

“Restaurant Startup” features restaurateur and TV personality Joe Bastianich and chef and restaurateur Tim Love, who vie to invest their own money in restaurant concepts they believe could make them millions. Joining the deal table this season is Elizabeth Blau, a restaurateur and consultant who advises hospitality companies around the world.

Each week on “Restaurant Startup,” two teams are invited to pitch their ideas to a panel of two investors. But only one team will receive the opportunity of a lifetime. The chosen team is given the keys to a working restaurant in Los Angeles. They get 36 hours and $7,500 to put their concept to the test and create a business plan; come up with a branding campaign; and finally, launch their dream restaurant. Under the watchful eye of culinary consultant Antonia Lofaso, the aspiring food moguls open their doors, serve their food, and test their concept on the public. Based on the reaction from the diners, the quality of the branding, and the viability of the business plan, Bastianich, Love, and Blau decide whether or not they will put their own money on the line to make someone’s dreams come true – and, hopefully, make big money for themselves.

Pictured: West Hartford native Elizabth Blau and Tim Love

Screenshot courtesy of CNBC