Hi! It’s been awhile since I’ve introduced myself on here ☺️ I’m Codi Bates, co-owner of Burger Stand, Bon Bon Private Dining & Events, Cider Art Gallery and Taco Zone Catering @bates_co . I’m a proud mama of 3 as well as a food & hospitality enthusiast. @beardfoundation WEL Alum, @entreprenista100 Award Winner and a founding board member of Lawrence Restaurant Association. Proud board member of the @indprestaurants .
The best independent restaurants are built on way more than just good food.
That’s why we’re bringing together @cheferickwilliams , @jasonhammel , @codib , and @corrie_wang at UTILITY for a conversation around community, support systems, and building something independently without trying to do it all yourself.
Moderated by @monicaengreporter . Presented by @spoton .
Thrilled to talk advocacy, community and all things @indprestaurants at this year’s @theutilityshow . If you’re around, please say hi — let’s connect!
Grab your tickets and come have fun with me😉
big small business owner moment yesterday-
I turned in keys to @burgerstandtopeka after 15 years, 2 different locations and lots of incredible people — staff and guests alike.
After closing in Oct 2024, we attempted to find someone to take the space (with no help from our landlord mind you). That monthly rent and general burden was rough and caused a fair amount of hardship BUT we made it and we’re done. We sold nearly everything in the space for pennies on the dollar and most importantly can breathe a bit better now.
So cheers 🥂 to good memories (@sb8tz ) and bye bye 👋🏻 to landlords that don’t have small businesses in mind when they trap them into leases and buildings.
I loved sharing more about how the @indprestaurants is advocating for our industry on a number of issues. From childcare, to tariffs to credit card processing fees & service charges. We’re impacted by so many issues and having a seat at all the tables is vital! Thanks again @wearebackofhouse@claudia.saric & @restaurantspenny for having me.
Conversations like these with owners and operators from across the country, even in a Kansas college town Lawrence, are moving the restaurant industry forward.
Check out the newest episode with Codi Bates available now wherever you get your podcast.
🎂HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US!🎉
We celebrate 17 years today and are so grateful to be here. Thank you for your support to get us here and keep us slinging the best burgers, fries & sauces in town 🍔❤️🍔 -Simon & Codi
Some of my favorite shots along the walk to Wat Arun today.
I really liked the colors on this side street we went down.
#BangkokViews #BangkokScenes #BangkokMoments #ThailandViews #ThailandDaily #ExploreBangkok #TravelThailand #TravelAsia #UrbanExplorer #CityDiaries #FujiXT5 #FujifilmXSeries
✨ A New Chapter for Bon Bon ✨
After nearly 10 years of sharing meals, memories, and community at Bon Bon, we’ve made the bittersweet decision to close our doors as a public restaurant and evolve into something new.
Since 2016, Bon Bon has been a space for first dates, family dinners, late-night laughs, and celebrations big and small. We are so proud of what we’ve accomplished together with our staff, our neighbors, and this amazing community. 💛
While we’re sad to close this chapter, we’re also excited for what’s ahead: Bon Bon will transition into a private dining and catering concept, partnering closely with our next-door sister space, Cider Gallery. We’ll be focusing on custom menus, event experiences, and bringing Bon Bon’s signature creativity and warmth to weddings, celebrations, and gatherings across Lawrence and beyond.
👉 Our last day of public service will be October 25th. Come join us before then, raise a glass, and celebrate all that Bon Bon has meant.
Thank you for the years of support, love, and community. Here’s to what’s next. 🥂✨
Simon & Codi Bates
