Testimonials and Reviews

"James DiPasquale has provided our company with advice on various legal, licensing and HR-related issues.  He has all the attributes a client expects in a law practice: knowledge, experience, professionalism, responsiveness and attention.  I highly recommend James for legal work in the hospitality industry and look forward to continuing our relationship in the future." -Marina Roulis (Five Guys, Melt Shop, The Little Beet, Fields Good Chicken, & MAKE Sandwich)

"I have been working with James DiPasquale for several years in the Industry over many varieties of operational needs.  From membership and operating agreements, to investor packages, lease and deal negotiations from beginning to end.  I have found James to be honest, trustworthy and above all prompt and respectful in his handling of all matters.  I am glad that I can call on him for assistance and representation." Keith Durst (Durst Hospitality Group & Du's Donuts)

"James has been a big asset to our business by providing support and expertise through some on some of our most critical initiatives. He has delivered under pressure and is extremely responsive when timelines are short. I would definitely recommend James and I look forward to continuing to work with him as we grow.” – Nick Iovacchini, (Top Chef Kitchen & Distilled NY)

"James is not only honest, but also extremely fair--which are endangered qualities of professionals in New York City. The restaurant industry here is not to be trifled with. Without the proper counsel, even the most experienced operators run the danger of being eaten alive -- and quickly. To say that James has looked out for our business from day one and actually cares about his clients is an understatement. There are few associates who not only serve your business a purpose, but also help you take it to the next level of success. Simply put, we wouldn't be where we are today without James." - Natalie Graham (SakaMai, Curry Bo,  & Young Street Poke Co.)

"James DiPasquale expertly guided me through litigation and the state liquor authority. Always patient and knowledgeable, James helped bring together a resolution very much in my favor. It was my pleasure to have him as my attorney and will recommend him to anyone in the hospitality industry that needs somebody with both integrity and expertise." - Michael Ferrie (Caledonia East, Caledonia West, & The Hamilton)

"Over the past four years I have had the absolute pleasure of working with James. His office is not only genuine and extremely attentive, yet they really have an uncanny ability to find the time when it is of the essence to work up whatever is needed. From operating agreements, to department of health challenges, to questions regarding fundraising or looming legal issues, they are there whenever they are needed which is a huge asset to such a tumultuous industry in which time means so much. Also, if there is a topic of law they are uncertain in, they will have a resource available to make sure the company will get the professional answers they need. I look forward to a long standing relationship with DiPasquale & Summers and have been extremely pleased of with the myriad of work they have provided thus far. I would recommend them to any restaurant or retail business, from the smallest coffee shop to a multi-location restaurant group- they get the job done!" - Brice Jones (Freehold Brooklyn)

"James has provided me with outstanding legal services since opening Poulette in 2014. Coming from overseas I didn’t know what to expect and what to be suspicious of while negotiating real estate leases, establishing companies and many more legal issues. James answered all my questions, was always available to speak to me and resolved any issues the business was confronted with. He is the best lawyer in New York City specializing in the restaurant industry. He kept me informed through our lease negotiations and had my back at all times. I am very happy with the services he provided and as my business grow I know I can count on James to satisfy all legal requirements." - Adam Jama (Poulette)

"I have the pleasure of knowing James D. DiPasquale for a few years and he handled a liquor license and a NYC health department dispute for us, where he successfully reversed a “B” grade to an “A” grade. He is very professional and knowledgeable about general and restaurant law. James has sincere interest in the issues, giving advice and help resolving them, most other law firms want a retainer before they even see you, James gave us a consultation explaining us alternatives and offering the best solution. He didn't charge anything extra to review more documents not to mention very good rates for what he offers, definitely recommended."  - Andy Arkun (Il Buco Restaurants)

"Working with James is a positive experience and he delivers results. James guided us through the process of opening a new restaurant in New York City, helping us tackle the necessary paperwork and regulations. Thanks to his professionalism and expertise, the process went smoothly. James has a comprehensive knowledge of what is necessary and worked very diligently to ensure that all applications and forms were submitted properly and timely, including those needed by the State Liquor Authority for our liquor license. We would absolutely recommend James and his firm to any new or established restaurant business in the New York area. We look forward to continue working with James and having him as a valuable resource and team member."  - Jonathan Lawrence (Sutton Inn)

“As a new restaurateur I was very skeptical when I first saw the term “Restaurant Law” – it just seemed too good to be true and I couldn’t help feeling baited in some way. After meeting James and having a consultation I was thoroughly impressed by the amount of quality information that was bestowed upon my partners and I. Instead of just allowing us to just jump through the hoops as we pleased and spend our money frivolously, he was very patient, and made sure we understood what we were getting ourselves into before each step of the process was taken. In the big scheme of things what we aspired to do was quite small; however, I have never once felt that our business did not get full attention from James and his Law Group.” – Max Colson (Catfish)

"I had the pleasure to come across James in the path of building my dream. He made things so easy. Imagine all the questions a new restaurant entrepreneur has? He is there to answer all of them: clear, fast and specific answers. Especially for a foreigner like me, and with a complicated subject as this is, he was always able to explain every step of the process. And his resources are not limited to the attorney's subject, but go way beyond that, giving you constant tips on how to improve your business. He is very well connected and everyone I have met through him has also been crucial in the development of my restaurant. He is truly passionate about what he does, and that's what really matters when dealing with professionals: you need people that believe in what they do and that can guide you to your final destination." – Elena Manich (El Born)

"Mr. DiPasquale has helped us with a number of matters: from landlord negotiations to litigation with vendors and employment law issues. All these matters always resulted in a positive outcome thanks to his extensive legal knowledge and superior negotiating skills. As a restaurant owner, I have been extremely satisfied with Mr. DiPasquale's profound expertise in all aspects of restaurant business and his consistently immediate response to all my requests and concerns. Mr. DiPasquale's personal approach and his ability to address all issues that may arise in a restaurant is what makes me come back to him again and again and recommend his services to fellow restaurant owners." - Irina Kurdevanidza (Acqua at Peck Slip)

“It is my pleasure to recommend James DiPasquale for legal work relating to the hospitality industry. He was generous with his time, his work is very detail-oriented, he is a great listener, and he knows both the law and understands the practical realities of our business.” – Stephen K. Lyle, (Henry’s)

"James DiPasquale was able to answer my questions and put to rest a concerning matter with accuracy and diligence.  I had resolution within hours upon discussing with him.  I would definitely engage his services again."  - Adam Schop (Former Executive Chef of Nuela.  Current Executive Chef at Le Diplomate)

“I was introduced to James by the New York State Restaurant Association.  In all my dealings with the DiPasquale & Summers, James has been prompt, knowledgeable and informative. He makes every effort to cater to his clients’ needs by making himself available to answer questions, give advice and counsel well after regular business hours.  The restaurant business is complex, competitive and cut throat.  Having the DiPasquale & Summers on your side gives you a much needed sense of comfort and peace of mind." -Eric Hall (Red Star)

“It has been a very busy 4 months for our wine bar and we are not slowing down. This is due in large part to our head start, guided by James DiPasquale, Esq., who was a source of knowledge and a running machine for all processes, always with high professionalism and ease. Meetings with James at DiPasquale & Summers were a pleasant experience from the receptionist to the conference room, and our anxious questions were met and answered with understanding and clear guidance.”  -Andy Goetz (Uncorked)

"When I first looked for a lawyer in my industry, I never saw a firm that I felt would be the right fit. The next time, when I really needed guidance, I looked, and the  DiPasquale & Summers was the first to pop up on the search. From the time I had my first consultation until now, James has proved himself both patient and extremely knowledgeable. The true manifestation of knowledge is knowing when to seek others for guidance and James knows when and where to seek advisement in areas where his client needs assistance and he may not have all the answers. He is thorough in his research and mindful of every detail. I appreciate his thorough investigative work and will certainly continue to utilize his services and refer anyone in my industry to him in the future. Many thanks." -Tageré Southwell (Tagere Foods)

"James DiPasquale has proven to be incredibly responsive and reliable in handling a complex legal case for one of my clients.  He assessed the situation in a very timely and professional manner which allowed my client to eventually work out an arrangement to their satisfaction.  For another client,  he conducted lease negotiations which eventually were highly beneficial to my client in regards to the circumstances surrounding the building of a restaurant in New Jersey. I'm also an instructor at a Culinary Management program and have had James in to do several presentations before hospitality entrepreneurs where he provided great legal information in an engaging way.  I highly recommend him" - Alan Someck (Keystone Hospitality Solutions)

"I had the pleasure of meeting James DiPasquale last year when I had to appear before the Community Board #3 (the toughest in the city) and the SLA. At the end of both hearings I came away very pleased that I had the best representation possible. James is more than an attorney- he's also a confidant and a friend and I'm proud to have him represent me and my restaurant." - Kamran Malekan (San Marzano)

"James has been a key asset to our operations from day one. As our F&B attorney his attention to detail and responsiveness is what allowed us to expand rapidly while navigating the complex NYC market." Simon Xi (Bar Moga, SakaMai, Curry Bo, Young Street Poke Co., Little Tong Noodle Shop & OKA)