🌱 Unlock the secret to thriving in the restaurant business with essential hospitality

A 2 min read.

In today's rapidly evolving restaurant industry, full-service establishments face a unique set of challenges. Rising costs, staffing shortages, and ever-changing consumer expectations have made it increasingly difficult to maintain the high standards of hospitality that define successful operations. As we navigate these turbulent times, it's crucial to return to the basics of hospitality to differentiate our businesses and ensure lasting success.

Getting Back to the Basics of Hospitality

Danny Meyer , in his seminal book Setting the Table, outlines the foundational principles of hospitality that have guided him to success. Meyer speaks of four essential gifts that every human receives within moments of being born: eye contact, a smile, a hug, and some food. These gifts are more than just niceties; they are the backbone of an exceptional dining experience. In his book, Meyer also reminds us that humans are driven to provide and receive hospitality.

To move from chaos to consistency in your restaurant, let’s start a conversation at christinlmarvin@gmail.com

Here's how you can incorporate these gifts into your restaurant and why they matter:

Eye Contact

   - How: Train your staff to make genuine eye contact with guests when greeting them, taking orders, and checking in during their meal.

   - Why: Eye contact establishes trust and shows that your staff is attentive and engaged. It helps create a personal connection, making guests feel seen and valued.

A Smile

   - How: Encourage your team to greet every guest with a warm and sincere smile, and to maintain a positive demeanor throughout their interactions.

   - Why: A smile is a universal gesture of friendliness and warmth. It instantly makes guests feel welcome and comfortable, enhancing their overall dining experience.

A Hug

   - How: While physical hugs may not always be appropriate or feasible, you can create a "hug-like" atmosphere by offering exceptional service, genuine care, and thoughtful gestures. Think of it as providing a metaphorical hug through your hospitality.

   - Why: A "hug" symbolizes warmth and comfort. By creating a welcoming environment where guests feel embraced and cared for, you foster a sense of belonging and loyalty.

Food

   - How: Offer complimentary bites or samples, such as an amuse-bouche at the start of the meal or a small dessert to end it. Highlight special dishes and share the stories behind them.

   - Why: Sharing food is a fundamental aspect of hospitality. It shows generosity and thoughtfulness, leaving guests with a lasting impression of your restaurant’s warmth and generosity.

The Urgency of Now

In the face of current industry challenges, there has never been a more critical time to focus on these fundamental aspects of hospitality. By returning to these basics, you can create a resilient business that not only survives but thrives. Implementing these principles requires intention, consistency, and leadership.

If you’re ready to elevate your restaurant and lead your team to success, my one-on-one coaching and leadership workshops are designed to help you achieve just that. Together, we can create a customized plan to integrate these gifts into your operations, improve guest satisfaction, and build a thriving, sustainable business.

Don't wait until the challenges overwhelm your passion for hospitality. Contact me today to schedule your first coaching session and start the journey toward excellence. Let's ensure your restaurant not only survives but also prospers in these challenging times.

P.S. 

For more leadership development, here are some additional resources for you:

1. Tune into the No Hesitations Podcast Episode 32 : How to Lead with Clarity : 5 Strategies for Effective Restaurant Management
2. Contact me for a strategy session about overcoming your biggest challenge at christinlmarvin@gmail.com and start transforming your mindset, your restaurant, and your life today!