Black Bear Diner Names Art Kilmer COO

Black Bear Diner, a full-service family dining concept with 160 units in 13 states, has appointed Art Kilmer as COO. He replaces Jeff Guido, who retired August 14.

Kilmer brings over two decades of restaurant industry experience to the role, most recently serving as COO for P.F. Chang’s for six years, where he was responsible for more than 200 domestic restaurants and worked with over 95 international and airport franchises.

“Art’s extensive experience, his leadership, and his proven track record in driving operational excellence align perfectly with our growth strategy,” says Anita Adams, CEO of Black Bear Diner, in a release.

Based in Redding, Calif., Black Bear Diner offers home-style comfort food classics in a cabin-themed dining experience. On August 1, it announced the opening of three new Texas locations in Baytown, San Antonio’s Monterrey Village and Laredo.