Scott McCallum prepares to lead the team of Tavern in the Square (TSQ) through 2025. Despite managing the restaurant for less than a year, he is confident for the future. “Hospitality and detail create a lasting impression,” said McCallum. (Image courtesy of McCallum)

The busy atmosphere of Tavern in the Square (TSQ), a restaurant in Tyngsborough, MA, owes much of its success to the steady leadership of Scott McCallum, the location’s general manager. Known for his commitment to creating a welcoming environment, McCallum has become a significant part of the restaurant’s appeal. After managing six different businesses over fourteen years, McCallum keeps expectations high for Tavern in the Square’s future.

With years of experience, McCallum has worked in various roles, from managing fast-casual chains like Chipotle to owning a stake in a multi-million-dollar restaurant. These experiences, he says, “helped mold [him] into the leader [he is] today.” McCallum emphasizes the importance of culture in running a successful business like Tavern in the Square: “Without a strong culture of development and respect, it often leads to an unhappy workplace environment. I make it a point to greet my team daily because the mindset that we can’t do this without them resonates strongly with me.” 

McCallum values a team player above all else. Managing Tavern in the Square, a restless $8-million restaurant with nearly 100 employees, is a jump from McCallum’s first general manager role at Lids in Nashua. “At Lids, we sold a product,” McCallum explains. “Here, we’re selling an experience attached to our food and drinks.”

When asked what the dining experience means, McCallum explains the value of attention to detail: “The dining experience goes beyond food. Ambiance, service, cleanliness, and genuine care for others determines satisfaction.” The managerial skills of McCallum, combined with the next-level service of Tavern in the Square, set the restaurant apart from others. Restaurants are a slowing industry, however, TSQ has continued to open new restaurants yearly, which shows its quality.

For McCallum, Tavern in the Square is more than a business he has to manage: it is a platform for growth, connection, and creating lasting experiences. As he continues to lead with passion, it is clear that both his team and guests are in capable hands. McCallum’s plan for the future is to become further integrated into the management of Tavern.