Michael Bacon, one-half of the well-known musical duo The Bacon Brothers, recently shared a whimsical vision for a restaurant that he dreams of opening, titled Pan-American. The concept is inspired by the ambiance of an airplane, complete with food served in plastic trays and servers dressed as flight attendants. While acknowledging that this idea may not align with contemporary norms regarding gender representation, Bacon expressed a heartfelt connection to the concept at the CREATE conference held in Nashville.
His brother, actor Kevin Bacon, provided additional context to Michael’s dreams, humorously noting, “My brother adores airline food.” The duo was in Nashville not just for the conference but also to perform at the iconic Grand Ole Opry the following day.
The Bacon brothers grew up in a creatively nurturing environment, the youngest of six siblings. Their parents, emphasizing creativity over material wealth, encouraged them to engage in imaginative activities instead of buying them toys. Kevin reflected on this upbringing, noting how performing arts were highly valued in their household. He remarked that, for their parents, putting on a play or writing a song held greater significance than financial success.
Kevin’s journey to the spotlight began when he moved to New York City at 17, where he took on a busboy job that taught him vital life skills. He worked in the restaurant industry for around four years, calling it “the closest thing [he] had to college.” Those formative years shaped his understanding of teamwork and empathy, skills that remain valuable in his career.
During an enlightening discussion with Nation’s Restaurant News editor-in-chief Sam Oches, the brothers delved into their creative processes. Michael, who is also a film composer, underscored the importance of providing for his family as a driving force in his work, stating that his passion for music is his only true talent.
In addition to being a performer, Michael teaches music technology and film scoring at a college. He advises his students to seek what sets them apart to achieve success, suggesting that this principle might be just as applicable to the restaurant industry. He remarked that unique offerings can provide an advantage without the need to be excessively innovative.
Before concluding their appearance with a song, the brothers shared their favorite restaurants: Michael named Bahama Breeze, while Kevin opted for Cava, adding that his top overall choice is Gennaro, an Italian eatery located on New York’s Upper West Side. The blend of creativity, nostalgia, and personal stories resonates strongly, showcasing the siblings’ enduring bond and their enduring appreciation for both food and music.