Over the past few couple of weeks, there has been plenty of discussion on TLS about groceries, restaurants, and food options in Lakewood. While reading through the comments and conversations, one question kept coming to mind:

Are there simply too many eateries in Lakewood?

It seems that every other week another food establishment, or specialty food concept is opening its doors. Many of them are beautifully designed, professionally run, and offer quality food and consumers certainly enjoy having choices.

But at what point does a market become oversaturated?

Lakewood and the surrounding area already boast dozens upon dozens of eateries. Some cater to families, others to the upscale crowd, and many try to distinguish themselves with a unique menu item, décor, or theme. Yet when you look closely, many are variations of concepts that already exist.

It raises an important question for aspiring entrepreneurs: Does every new business need to be another food establishment?

Lakewood is a growing community with countless needs beyond dining. There are opportunities in services, entertainment, recreation, technology, healthcare support, home improvement, education, and many other fields. Perhaps some of the energy, investment, and creativity currently being directed toward opening the next restaurant could be used to fill gaps in other areas of community life.

Of course, the free market ultimately decides. If new eateries continue opening and succeeding, that suggests there is demand. If they struggle, the market will eventually correct itself. Nobody can fault someone for pursuing a business opportunity they believe in.

Still, it is fair to ask whether we have reached a point where entrepreneurs are increasingly competing for the same customers rather than identifying new needs and creating something different.

What do you think? Is Lakewood’s growing restaurant scene a sign of a thriving community with endless demand and choice? Or have we reached the stage where enough is enough, and future business owners should begin looking beyond food concepts for their next venture?

I would be interested in hearing the community’s thoughts.

A recently-relocated TR resident.