IHOP Is 68 Years Young: Lawrence Kim on Evolving an American Icon
How do you evolve one of America's most iconic restaurant brands without losing what people love about it? On The Hospitality Hangout, live from the Prosper Forum, IHOP President Lawrence Kim explains why the brand is 68 years young—not 68 years old.
Who is Lawrence Kim?
Lawrence Kim is the President of IHOP, leading one of the most recognizable names in American dining. His approach to the role started on the ground: learning the business by working inside the restaurants and making anonymous visits to more than 150 locations to see the guest experience for himself.
What does "68 years young" mean for IHOP?
The phrase captures Lawrence's strategy: honor the heritage while staying relentlessly current. That means reading the guest, modernizing the experience, and proving a legacy brand can still move fast.
How is IHOP driving value and buzz?
Lawrence digs into the levers—the $6 Value Menu answering real affordability pressure, viral menu moments like Dubai Chocolate Pancakes, plus loyalty and catering as growth engines. It's a clinic in balancing everyday value with the kind of limited-time innovation that earns attention.
Why should operators listen?
For any operator managing a mature brand, Lawrence's playbook—go see the guest experience yourself, pair value with buzz, and treat age as an asset—shows how an American icon stays relevant.
Listen to the full conversation with Lawrence Kim on The Hospitality Hangout, then subscribe for more operator interviews. New to the show? Give The Hospitality Hangout a listen.
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio | Pocket Casts
