About Thompson Hospitality Law
Passion. Experience. Dedication.
At Thompson Hospitality Law, we know what it takes to build and protect a dream in New York City’s fast-paced restaurant and bar scene—because we’ve lived it.
Our founder, Walter John Thompson, spent more than three decades in the hospitality industry before becoming an attorney. From his early days as a dishwasher to leading teams in some of Manhattan’s most iconic venues—including Café des Artistes and the Grand Tier at the Met—Walter understands the pressures and possibilities that come with running a hospitality business.
As an attorney, Walter has built a respected practice in civil rights, business law, and litigation. He founded Thompson Hospitality Law with one goal: to help restaurants, cafés, and bars navigate the legal landscape with clarity, confidence, and care.
We focus on what matters most to hospitality entrepreneurs:
Securing liquor licenses efficiently
Negotiating fair and sustainable leases
Protecting investor relationships and agreements
Guiding expansions and new openings with compliance and strategy
What sets us apart is not just legal skill—it’s lived experience. We know the hospitality industry from the inside out, and we understand that behind every license, contract, or dispute is someone’s vision, livelihood, and future.
At Thompson Hospitality Law, we don’t just handle legal work. We partner with you to bring your vision to life and protect what you’ve built.
Let’s build something lasting, together.