Restaurant Rockstars Podcast: Recent Episodes
Roger Beaudoin
Tips, tools & resources to help restaurant owners and managers Rock Their Restaurant! Engaging conversations with industry leaders and fellow restaurateurs.
Smarter operations can mean more revenue, a stronger team, and happier guests. Joe Mikulich of EDO Hospitality shares practical ideas independent restaurant operators can put to work right now.What if running a more profitable restaurant isn’t about working harder, but operating smarter?Roger sits down with Joe Mikulich, co-founder of EDO Hospitality, to talk about the practical moves helping his growing restaurant group drive revenue, build a stronger culture, and create happier guests.From smarter SOPs and staff accountability to beverage profits, hiring, retention, marketing, memorable guest experiences, and AI, this episode is packed with ideas independent restaurant owners and operators can put to work right away.Want to build a restaurant that's more profitable, runs smoother, and doesn't depend on you every minute of the day?Join the Restaurant Rockstars Academy and learn proven systems for leadership, menu profitability, labor control, marketing, and operational excellence. 👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyWant to find more profit hiding in your menu? Take Roger’s FREE 5-Day Menu Margin Makeover Challenge and learn how to identify your most profitable items, uncover missed opportunities, and make simple changes that can put more money on your bottom line. https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Roger sits down with Kyle Peters, co-owner of Sexy Pizza, to discuss the operational systems that help independent restaurants reduce turnover, improve profitability and build stronger teams.From employee retention and leadership to KPIs, inventory, labor management, marketing and community engagement, Kyle shares practical strategies that operators can implement immediately. Learn why checklists create accountability, how tracking the right numbers protects margins, and why investing in your people often delivers a bigger return than constantly hiring new ones.In this episode you'll discover:• Why retention beats constant hiring• The restaurant KPIs every operator should track• How checklists improve accountability and consistency• Ways to reduce labor leakage and protect profits• Community marketing that builds loyal guests• Loyalty ideas that keep customers coming back• Why strong vendor relationships improve your bottom lineWhether you operate one restaurant or multiple locations, this episode is packed with practical ideas to help you build a stronger team, improve operations and increase profitability.🎙 Restaurant Rockstars Podcast: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/podcastsHelping independent restaurant owners build more profitable restaurants through better leadership, systems and operations.⭐️ The Profitable Operator Restaurant Academy: Practical systems and operational strategies designed to help independent restaurant operators improve profitability, performance, and control. https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy🔥 FREE 5 DAY RESTAURANT MENU MARGIN MAKEOVER CHALLENGE:https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challengeConnect with our guest 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sexypizzaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexypizza/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sexypizzaco?lang=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sexypizza/https://sexy.pizza
What separates great restaurant operators from everyone else?According to Firebirds Wood Fired Grill CEO Steve Kislow, it starts with leadership.In this episode of Restaurant Rockstars, Steve shares the leadership principles, accountability systems, and operational disciplines that helped grow Firebirds from just three restaurants to 70 locations across 23 states.Roger and Steve discuss hiring great leaders, creating a culture of meaningful feedback, improving employee retention, tracking the KPIs that matter most, protecting restaurant profits, using technology wisely, and delivering memorable guest experiences without losing the human side of hospitality.Whether you own a single independent restaurant or manage multiple locations, you'll walk away with practical ideas you can implement immediately.▶️ Watch the Episode:https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/497-restaurant-leadership-profits/In this episode:• Hiring leaders who build winning teams• Creating accountability through feedback• Why employee retention is a critical KPI• Protecting profits without sacrificing hospitality• Restaurant systems that drive consistency• Using AI and technology the right way• Creating value that keeps guests coming backConnect with our guest:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-kislow/https://firebirdsrestaurants.com🔥 If you're serious about building a more profitable restaurant, the Restaurant Rockstars Academy is for you.Inside, you'll learn Roger's proven systems for leadership, profitability, menu engineering, marketing, labor control, and building a restaurant that runs smoothly, even when you're not there.Learn more at restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy.⭐️ Thanks to our podcast sponsor – PosterMyWallPosterMyWall is the AI-powered marketing platform built for restaurants. Create social media posts, email campaigns, event promotions, automatic reminders, and event calendars, all from one easy-to-use platform.With millions of professionally designed templates and built-in AI, you can create high-quality marketing in minutes, no design skills or agency required.Visit postermywall.com and use promo code RESTAURANT30 to save 30% on a Premium subscription.
experiences create loyal guestsHow to hire and retain exceptional employeesThe leadership habits that build winning restaurant culturesThe KPIs every operator should monitorCreative ways to increase traffic on slower nightsLessons learned from growing multiple successful restaurant conceptsLearn more about h.wood Group:https://www.hwoodgroup.comThanks to Our SponsorsOwner.com helps restaurants increase direct online orders with automated marketing campaigns and a branded mobile app.👉 https://www.owner.com/rockstarsSmithfield Culinary helps restaurants save time and labor while serving premium-quality proteins guests love.👉 https://www.smithfieldselect.comJoin the Restaurant Rockstars AcademyReady to build a more profitable restaurant?👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy
What separates an average restaurant manager from a truly great general manager?In this episode, Roger sits down with Andrew Roy, General Manager of Mahogany Prime Steakhouse, to discuss the leadership habits, systems, and financial discipline that drive successful restaurants. From hiring and accountability to labor management, guest recovery, online reviews, inventory, prime cost, and profitability, Andrew shares practical strategies every restaurant owner, operator, and GM can put to work immediately.Whether you're leading one restaurant or a growing team, this episode is packed with real-world advice to help you build stronger people, deliver better hospitality, and run a more profitable operation.▶️ Watch now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/495-restaurant-general-manager-secrets/👉 Want to build a more profitable restaurant? Join the Restaurant Rockstars Academy for proven systems, practical training, and expert coaching: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank You to our Sponsors:⭐️ Smithfield Culinary serves up perfect proteins for every dish and every daypart like Smithfield’s new ready to eat select bacon, Its premium, ready to cook bacon that will elevate your menu and your bottom line. Smithfield Select saves you time, labor and back of house costs all while satisfying your guests. When you partner with Smithfield, you serve what you love and your guests will love what you serve. To order or more information go to: https://www.smithfieldselect.com⭐️ Owner.com: Owner.com runs automated marketing campaigns for your restaurant that send personalized offers, order reminders, promotions, and new menu announcements automatically to your guests. So your marketing works for you every single day.And here’s the real power move: Owner.com gives your restaurant your own branded app. Go to https://www.owner.com/rockstars
If you're looking for restaurant growth strategies that increase sales without relying on constant discounts, this episode is for you.Roger sits down with Dog Haus CEO Mike Montagano to discuss how one of the industry's fastest-growing brands is building customer loyalty, protecting margins, and growing sales through memorable guest experiences, smart marketing, AI, menu innovation, and operational excellence.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why competing on price is a losing strategy• How loyalty programs drive repeat business• Restaurant marketing ideas that keep your brand relevant• How AI is improving restaurant operations• Why a strong bar program can become a major profit center• Menu engineering strategies that improve profitability• The KPIs every restaurant owner should monitor• How to create an experience that keeps guests coming backWhether you operate a single independent restaurant or a growing restaurant group, you'll walk away with practical ideas you can implement immediately to grow sales and protect your profits.👇 Take the FREE Restaurant Menu Makeover Challenge!https://restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/Thanks to our Sponsors⭐️ Owner.com: Owner.com runs automated marketing campaigns for your restaurant that send personalized offers, order reminders, promotions, and new menu announcements automatically to your guests. So your marketing works for you every single day.And here’s the real power move: Owner.com gives your restaurant your own branded app. Go to https://www.owner.com/rockstars⭐️ Smithfield Culinary serves up perfect proteins for every dish and every daypart like Smithfield’s new ready to eat select bacon, Its premium, ready to cook bacon that will elevate your menu and your bottom line. Smithfield Select saves you time, labor and back of house costs all while satisfying your guests. When you partner with Smithfield, you serve what you love and your guests will love what you serve. To order or more information.Go to: https://www.smithfieldselect.com🎙️ Subscribe for new Restaurant Rockstars episodes every week featuring proven strategies to increase restaurant sales, improve profitability, build stronger teams, and create exceptional guest experiences.
Video Production: ZivZo is not only a full service marketing agency, but restaurant industry pros specializing in animation and video production that brings your restaurant to life. Go to https://www.zivzo.com⭐️ Owner.com: Owner.com runs automated marketing campaigns for your restaurant that send personalized offers, order reminders, promotions, and new menu announcements automatically to your guests. So your marketing works for you every single day.And here’s the real power move: Owner.com gives your restaurant your own branded app. Go to https://www.owner.com/rockstars
Video ProductionZivZo is a full-service marketing agency specializing in restaurants. From advertising and digital marketing to animation and video production, ZivZo helps bring restaurant brands to life and drive measurable results.Learn more at zivzo.comRestaurant Rockstars PodcastRestaurantRockstars.com
Video Production: ZivZo is not only a full service marketing agency, but restaurant industry pros specializing in animation and video production that brings your restaurant to life. Go to https://www.zivzo.com#RestaurantKPIs #RestaurantManagement #RestaurantLeadership #RestaurantProfitability #RestaurantMarketing #RestaurantOperations #RestaurantOwner #RestaurantGrowth #PrimeCost #LaborCostManagement
Video Production: ZivZo is not only a full service marketing agency, but restaurant industry pros specializing in animation and video production that brings your restaurant to life. Go to https://www.zivzo.com
Video ProductionZivZo is not only a full-service marketing agency but restaurant industry pros specializing in animation and video production that brings your restaurant to life. Learn more at https://www.zivzo.com
discounts• Building operational freedomConnect with Ben Fischer:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bensonfischer/https://www.facebook.com/ZivZoVideos/https://www.instagram.com/zivzovideos/https://zivzo.com/https://bensonfischerrestaurantmarketing.com/Thank you to our sponsors:Grub LabGrub Lab reinvented the kids’ menu with licensed NBA, NFL and Hollywood brands in augmented reality that bring characters to life right at the table. Families stay longer, spend more and come back more often. https://www.grublab.co Smithfield CulinarySmithfield Culinary serves up premium ready-to-cook bacon that saves labor, improves consistency and elevates guest experience. https://www.smithfieldselect.comZivZo MarketingZivZo is a full-service marketing, advertising and video production agency specializing in restaurants and hospitality brands. https://www.zivzo.comRally CateringSimplify catering orders, reduce chaos and grow your catering profit center with Rally Catering. https://rallycatering.com/rockstars
Independent restaurant operators are facing rising labor costs, shrinking margins, inconsistent team performance, and growing pressure to deliver value while maintaining hospitality.In this episode, Roger sits down with Chad Offerdahl, CEO of Big Biscuit, to break down the operational systems helping their rapidly growing restaurant brand scale successfully across 30+ locations.Chad shares practical strategies around:• Restaurant leadership and accountability• Team training and onboarding systems• Labor management and retention• KPIs and operational transparency• Building strong restaurant culture• Menu simplicity and operational efficiency• Community-driven marketing• Increasing guest loyalty and repeat business• Using AI to improve restaurant operations without losing hospitalityThis episode is packed with actionable ideas independent restaurant owners and small restaurant groups can apply immediately to improve team performance, consistency, and profitability.Thank you to our sponsors:Grub LabGrub Lab completely reinvented the kids’ menu with licensed NBA, NFL, and Hollywood brands in augmented reality that bring characters to life right at the table. Their collectible menus rotate regularly, helping families stay longer, spend more, and come back more often.http://grublab.coRally CateringRally Catering helps restaurants streamline catering orders with online ordering, kitchen-ready production sheets, packing forms, and organized workflows that eliminate chaos and help grow catering sales.https://rallycatering.com/rockstarsThe Operator Inner Circle MastermindJoin a curated group of restaurant operators focused on labor, leadership, marketing, margins, accountability, and operational excellence. Meet twice monthly to share best practices and solve real restaurant challenges together.https://restaurantrockstars.com/mastermind
Running 35 restaurants takes more than systems. It takes real restaurant operations.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I sit down with Alex Sadowsky, Vice President of Training, Culinary, and Beverage at Ojos Locos Sports Cantina, a growing 35-unit brand.We go inside how a multi-unit restaurant actually operates, from hiring and training to culture, accountability, and managing margins in today’s environment.Alex shares how they hire for attitude over experience, build long-term teams, and create real paths for growth from server to leadership. We also get into the realities of running a scratch kitchen at scale, keeping menus tight for efficiency, and maintaining consistency across multiple locations.We break down the numbers that matter, including prime cost, labor, and food cost, and how their team is working toward more real-time visibility to make better decisions faster.This is not theory or a list of systems. It’s a real look at restaurant operations inside a multi-unit brand that’s growing while staying true to its culture.Listen to the full episode:https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/restaurant-operations-35-unit-brand/Connect with our Guest:@ojoslocossportscantina https://ojoslocos.comThank you to our sponsors: 🔘 The Operator Inner Circle Mastermind: Join a select group of restaurateurs seeking solutions to labor, increasing margins, leadership, proven marketing, staying ahead of the competition and today’s most pressing operating challenges. We get together brainstorm and share best practices 2 X/ month. Uplevel your restaurant with like-minded peers and industry experts.https://restaurantrockstars.com/mastermind🔘 Rally Catering: Catering is an excellent added profit center for your restaurant, but it’s all in the details.With Rally Catering, customers browse your packages and pricing to order instantly. Orders arrive complete and ready to approve, with kitchen-ready production sheets and packing forms. Grow your catering business without missing a beat and without the chaos! https://rallycatering.com/rockstarsBusy doesn’t equal profitable. More sales won’t fix weak margins; smarter menu decisions will. Do the 5-Day Menu Margin Makeover Challenge and turn one item into a repeatable profit driver.👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/Connect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsLinkedIn Roger Beaudoin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1
Turn catering into a profit machine.In this episode, Roger sits down with Elias from Rally Catering to talk about how the right restaurant catering system can help operators simplify the ordering process, reduce chaos, and turn catering into a repeatable revenue stream. They break down the biggest mistakes restaurants make with catering, the systems needed to streamline operations, and how easy online ordering can lead to more orders and more repeat business.If your catering process is still being managed through calls, emails, and manual follow-up, this episode will show you how to make it easier for your team and your customers, while building a stronger profit center for your business.Want to simplify your catering and stop missing revenue opportunities? Get a free demo at rallycatering.com/rockstarsWant more restaurant profit strategies? Join the 5-Day Menu Margin Makeover Challenge at restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/
Most restaurant owners are stuck chasing food costs. The real opportunity is building systems that scale profit.In this episode, Roger sits down with Jessica Zouaoui, Co-Founder of Oakwell Beer Spa, a fully booked, multi-location concept built without investors. She shares how systems, team culture, and experience-driven strategy created a business that runs without burnout.You’ll learn how to scale, improve margins, and build a business that works without you.Join the Menu Margin Makeover Challenge:https://restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/Sponsored by Restaurant Rockstars Coaching.Get expert guidance to increase profits and build systems:https://restaurantrockstars.comSponsored by TouchBistro, the all-in-one restaurant POS:https://touchbistro.comConnect with Jessica Zouaoui and Oakwell Beer Spa:Website: https://oakwell.com/Franchise: https://oakwellfranchise.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oakwell-beer-spaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/OakwellBeerSpaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/oakwellbeerspa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OakwellBeerSpaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@oakwellbeerspa
If your restaurant is busy but not making money, your systems, not your effort, are the problem.In this episode, Roger breaks down exactly what he would do if he took over your restaurant today. From menu costing and prime cost to labor control, leadership, and marketing, this is a complete restaurant systems playbook designed to increase profit and give you back control of your business.These are the same strategies used to uncover tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars in hidden profit across independent restaurants and multi-location operators.If you want stronger margins, a more accountable team, and a restaurant that runs without you being there 24/7…start here.🎧 Learn more and get resources:https://restaurantrockstars.com🤝 This episode is brought to you by TouchBistro, the all-in-one restaurant POS and management system that helps you track sales, control costs, and run a more profitable operation. Learn more: https://www.touchbistro.com/
Canada):https://www.touchbistro.com/restaurantrockstarsIf you’re serious about running a more profitable, efficient restaurant…you’re in the right place.👉 Subscribe, share, and keep tuning in to Restaurant Rockstars.
Rising costs are squeezing profits across the industry, but the smartest operators are adapting fast...and winning. In this episode, Roger sits down with Samir Zabaneh to break down the real strategies restaurants are using right now to protect and grow their restaurant margins.From operational efficiencies to smarter marketing and menu optimization, Samir shares practical insights and real-world experience that operators can apply immediately to improve profitability and performance.If you're feeling the pressure of labor, food costs, or inconsistent profits, this episode delivers clear, actionable strategies you can put to work right away.Ready to take action? Join the 5-Day Menu Margin Makeover Challenge and fix the profit leaks in your operation:https://restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/Thank you to our sponsors:Smithfield Culinary serves up perfect proteins for every dish, every daypart—from Smithfield’s new ready-to-eat select bacon to new ground chorizo and the broadest portfolio of pork. When you partner with Smithfield, you serve what you love and your guests will love what you serve.Learn more: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldRestaurant Rockstars Coaching helps you increase profit, build a dream team staff, and execute trackable marketing strategies that work. If you’re ready to up-level your operation, Roger can help you dial it in, maximize opportunities, and get your peace of mind back.Learn more: https://restaurantrockstars.com/consulting/TouchBistro is an all-in-one, cloud-based POS and restaurant management system designed exclusively for restaurants. It connects front of house, back of house, and guest engagement into one easy-to-use platform. For operators in the U.S. or Canada, TouchBistro is offering savings on upfront costs for a limited time. Terms and conditions apply.Learn more: https://www.touchbistro.com/restaurantrockstarsAjinomoto Foods delivers fast, easy-to-prep frozen Asian products that look homemade and taste incredible. With over 100 years of culinary expertise, Ajinomoto helps you save time, reduce labor, and protect profits without compromising quality.Learn more: https://ajinomotofoodservice.com
Restaurant profits are under pressure, and many operators are unknowingly making mistakes that destroy their restaurant margins.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Roger Beaudoin breaks down the five biggest profit-killing mistakes he sees in restaurants today, from poor menu engineering and rising food costs to labor inefficiencies and weak operational systems.Drawing on decades of operating highly profitable restaurants, Roger shares practical strategies you can use immediately to stop margin leaks and run a stronger, more profitable operation.If you're serious about improving profitability, this episode reveals simple changes that can dramatically protect and grow your restaurant margins.In this episode you'll learn:• The five most common mistakes destroying restaurant margins• Why menu engineering directly impacts profitability• How labor inefficiencies quietly erode profits• The systems profitable restaurants rely on• Simple operational changes that improve margins fastFree Resource for Restaurant OwnersWant to quickly identify hidden profit leaks in your menu?Join Roger’s Free 5-Day Menu Margin Makeover Challenge and learn how to engineer your menu for stronger restaurant margins and profitability.https://restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/Thank you to our sponsorsSmithfield CulinarySmithfield Culinary serves up perfect proteins for every dish and every daypart—from Smithfield’s new ready-to-eat Select Bacon and new ground chorizo to the broadest portfolio of pork. When you partner with Smithfield, you serve what you love and your guests will love what you serve.https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldRestaurant Rockstars CoachingIncrease your profit, create a dream team staff, and execute trackable marketing strategies that work. If you’re facing restaurant challenges and want to uplevel your operation, Roger can help dial in your systems, maximize opportunities, and give you back your peace of mind.https://restaurantrockstars.com/consulting/TouchBistroTouchBistro is an all-in-one cloud-based POS and restaurant management system designed exclusively for restaurants. It connects front-of-house, back-of-house, and guest engagement into one powerful platform. Operators in the U.S. and Canada can get started for less with limited-time savings on upfront costs. Terms and conditions apply.https://www.touchbistro.com/restaurantrockstarsAjinomoto FoodsAjinomoto Foods delivers fast, easy-to-prep frozen Asian products that look homemade and taste incredible. With more than 100 years of Asian culinary expertise, Ajinomoto helps restaurants save time, reduce labor, and protect profits without compromising quality.https://ajinomotofoodservice.com
Her Brands:Chai Pani: https://chaipani.com/Spicewalla: https://www.spicewallabrand.com/Instagram:@chaipanimom@chaipani@spicewallaEpisode SponsorsAjinomoto Foodshttps://www.ajinomotofoodservice.com/TouchBistrohttps://www.touchbistro.com/Smithfield Culinaryhttps://www.smithfieldculinary.com/Subscribe to Restaurant Rockstars for weekly insights on restaurant leadership, systems, and profit.
In Episode 478 of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Roger sits down with hospitality futurist and author Carl Orsbourn to discuss AI for restaurants, smarter restaurant systems, and the leadership required to navigate a changing industry.Technology is everywhere right now. Every platform promises transformation. But most restaurant technology fails — not because it doesn’t work, but because it isn’t aligned with clear operational goals.In this episode, you’ll learn:• When AI actually makes sense for restaurants• Why most restaurant systems fail• How strong leadership drives successful tech adoption• The difference between management and true leadership• Why unified data matters before deploying AI• How standards, capabilities, and culture drive profitabilityThis episode is about building smarter restaurant systems that support stronger leadership, improve guest experience, and drive long-term profit.Connect with Our GuestCarl OrsbournWebsite: https://www.invisibletech.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlorssbournInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedigitalrestaurant/X: https://x.com/carlorsbournThank You to Our SponsorsSmithfield Culinary – Premium proteins for every daypart.https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldTouchBistro – All-in-one cloud POS built specifically for restaurants.Exclusive savings: https://www.touchbistro.com/restaurantrockstarsAjinomoto Foodservice – Labor-saving Asian-inspired menu solutions.https://ajinomotofoodservice.comRestaurant Rockstars Coaching – Increase profit, build a stronger team, and run a smarter operation.https://restaurantrockstars.com/consulting/Free Tools for Restaurant Owners🔥 5-Day Menu Margin Makeover Challengehttps://restaurantrockstars.com/the-5-day-menu-margin-makeover-challenge/🎓 Free Owner Trainingwww.restaurantacademy.online/get-free-training-owners🚀 The Restaurant Academyhttps://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy
Restaurant Leadership is the difference between running a restaurant and leading one.In this episode, Roger sits down with a multi-unit operator to unpack the systems behind stronger leadership, tighter labor control, and better profitability.We cover:• Proactive labor management and forecasting• Building and developing A-level managers• Creating culture that drives accountability• Using KPIs and structure to protect profit• Scaling without losing standardsBetter systems lead to better profits. Connect with our guest:https://citizensallday.comhttps://www.instagram.com/citizen.allday/https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-giuffrida-02187769/https://www.linkedin.com/company/citizens-cafe-holdings/https://wefunder.com/citizenscoffee Sponsors:Restaurant Rockstars Coaching – https://restaurantrockstars.com/consulting/Ajinomoto Foods – https://ajinomotofoodservice.comTouchBistro – https://www.touchbistro.com/restaurantrockstarsSmithfield Culinary – https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield
AI is everywhere, but what actually works inside a real restaurant?In this episode, Roger breaks down how restaurant owners are practically using AI to tackle today’s biggest challenges: rising labor costs, shrinking margins, inefficient systems, and marketing that doesn’t deliver ROI.You’ll learn how AI can support:•Inventory management and waste reduction•Menu engineering and pricing decisions•Smarter staff scheduling•Marketing that’s trackable and profitableThis isn’t about hype or replacing people. It’s about using AI as a support system to tighten operations, protect profit, and help you run a better restaurant with less stress.Thank you to our sponsors:TouchBistroAn all-in-one, cloud-based POS and restaurant management system built exclusively for restaurants. Front of house, back of house, and guest engagement—fully connected. U.S. and Canada operators can save on upfront costs for a limited time.👉 https://www.touchbistro.com/restaurantrockstarsSmithfield CulinaryPerfect proteins for every plate and every daypart—from ready-to-eat bacon to ground chorizo and the industry’s broadest pork portfolio. Serve what you love, and your guests will love it too.👉 https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldRestaurant Rockstars CoachingIncrease profit, build a dream team, and execute marketing strategies that actually work. If you want to uplevel your operation and regain peace of mind, connect with Roger.👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com/consulting/Ajinomoto FoodsFast, easy-to-prep frozen Asian products that look homemade and taste incredible. Save time, cut labor, and protect profits—without compromising quality.👉 https://ajinomotofoodservice.com
Running a profitable restaurant doesn’t mean doing more — it means making simpler, smarter decisions.In this episode of Restaurant Rockstars, Roger talks with Kelly of Hot Head Burritos about how focused menus, disciplined operations, and clearer decision-making lead to higher profit for independent restaurant owners.Learn how simplifying menus, labor, tech, and daily decisions improves execution, margins, and sanity — without adding complexity.Thank you to our sponsors:• Ajinomoto Foods – Fast, easy-to-prep Asian products that save labor and protect profit👉 https://ajinomotofoodservice.com• Smithfield Culinary – Perfect proteins for every dish and every daypart👉 https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield• AtlasNova – AI-powered insights for smarter restaurant decisions👉 https://www.atlasnova.ai/rockstarsGet 20% off with code Rockstars20For restaurant training, coaching, consulting, and the Restaurant Rockstars Academy, visit:👉 https://restaurantrockstars.comConnect with Our GuestFacebook: @HotHeadBurritosInstagram: @hotheadburritosX: @hotheadburritosWebsite: https://hotheadburritos.com
Most restaurant problems don’t come from a lack of effort, they come from a lack of systems.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I break down the restaurant systems and SOPs that actually move the needle on profit, with a clear focus on prime cost, consistency, and control.We talk about why systems matter more than personalities, how the right SOPs protect your margins, and what happens when your restaurant can’t function without you constantly putting out fires.You’ll learn:✔️ Which restaurant systems impact prime cost the most✔️ Why SOPs create consistency even when staff changes✔️ How to reduce labor and food cost without micromanaging✔️ The difference between being busy and being profitable✔️ How to build a restaurant that runs smoother and makes more moneyIf you’re an independent restaurant owner who wants better margins, less chaos, and a business that runs consistently, this episode will give you a clear framework to think differently about operations.👉 Learn more about proven restaurant systems inside the Restaurant Academy:https://restaurantrockstars.com
Frozen Custard to break down the thinking behind low-labor, high-margin restaurant models. This conversation isn’t about copying a walk-up counter concept, it’s about understanding the fundamentals that drive profitability, efficiency, and longevity in today’s restaurant economy.We talk about why simpler operations often outperform complex ones, how smarter labor decisions protect margins, and why long-lasting restaurant brands stay deeply connected to their communities. Whether you run full service, fast casual, or multiple locations, the insights in this episode will challenge how you think about staffing, systems, and sustainable growth.If you’re tired of working harder while margins keep shrinking, this episode will help you rethink what actually drives restaurant success.Learn more about Restaurant Rockstars and the Academy:👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com/podcastConnect with Our Guest: https://www.ritasice.com https://www.instagram.com/ritasice/ https://www.facebook.com/RitasItalianIceCompany/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rita's-italian-ice/
ConsultingWork directly with us to fix margins, improve execution, and build a restaurant that runs without chaos.👉 https://restaurantrockstars.com/consulting🎙 About the Restaurant Rockstars PodcastReal conversations with operators, chefs, and hospitality leaders on what actually drives profitable restaurants...not theory, not trends.Thank you to our sponsors: •AtlasNova: AtlasNova is like having an AI CMO and COO built into one platform. It connects your POS and marketing data, tells you exactly what matters, and then actually helps execute: campaigns, insights, next best actions, all without adding headcount. Less guessing. Less busywork. Better results. If you want your business to run smarter, not harder, check out AtlasNova at https://www.atlasnova.ai/rockstars and Get 20% off using the code Rockstars20 •Smithfield Culinary serves up perfect proteins for every dish, every daypart like Smithfield’s new ready to eat select bacon, new ground chorizo or the broadest portfolio of pork. When you partner with Smithfield, you serve what you love and your guests will love what you serve. To order or more information go to: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield
solutions that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. Join The Restaurant Academy now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: •The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•Smithfield Culinary serves up perfect proteins for every dish, every daypart like Smithfield’s new ready to eat select bacon, new ground chorizo or the broadest portfolio of pork. When you partner with Smithfield, you serve what you love and your guests will love what you serve. To order or more information go to: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield•AtlasNova: AtlasNova is like having an AI CMO and COO built into one platform. It connects your POS and marketing data, tells you exactly what matters, and then actually helps execute: campaigns, insights, next best actions, all without adding headcount. Less guessing. Less busywork. Better results. If you want your business to run smarter, not harder, check out AtlasNova at https://www.atlasnova.ai/rockstars and Get 20% off using the code Rockstars20
manages your online reputation. You get a custom branded SEO optimized website, data you control without losing 30% to 3rd parties, automated customer feedback, loyalty programs, built in chargeback protection and 24/7 support. https://restaurant.menufy.com/
manages your online reputation. You get a custom branded SEO optimized website, data you control without losing 30% to 3rd parties, automated customer feedback, loyalty programs, built in chargeback protection and 24/7 support. https://restaurant.menufy.com/
manages your online reputation. You get a custom branded SEO optimized website, data you control without losing 30% to 3rd parties, automated customer feedback, loyalty programs, built in chargeback protection and 24/7 support. https://restaurant.menufy.com/
manages your online reputation. You get a custom branded SEO optimized website, data you control without losing 30% to 3rd parties, automated customer feedback, loyalty programs, built in chargeback protection and 24/7 support. https://restaurant.menufy.com/ •MenuTiger: Seamless QR menus, ordering and payment right from a guest’s phone made simple. It’s about efficiency and guest convenience. See how much smoother your restaurant can run at https://www.menutiger.com
solutions that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. Join The Restaurant Academy now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy
manages your online reputation. You get a custom branded SEO optimized website, data you control without losing 30% to 3rd parties, automated customer feedback, loyalty programs, built in chargeback protection and 24/7 support. https://restaurant.menufy.com/ The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/MenuTiger: Seamless QR menus, ordering and payment right from a guest’s phone made simple. It’s about efficiency and guest convenience. See how much smoother your restaurant can run at https://www.menutiger.comTerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.com
Kevin Morrison.Your restaurant’s profit depends on mastering your Prime Cost—the total of food, beverage, and labor. In this episode, Roger Beaudoin and Kevin Morrison break down how to calculate, track, and reduce Prime Cost to maximize your bottom line.Join the Restaurant Academy which includes the Menu Profit Accelerator: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademySponsors:• Menu Tiger – Seamless QR menus, ordering, and payment right from your guest’s phone. Improve efficiency and guest convenience: https://www.menutiger.com• Menufy – Uplevel your SEO, take direct online orders, market to guests, and manage your reputation with a custom-branded website and 24/7 support: https://restaurant.menufy.comConnect with Kevin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-morrison-13ab139b/https://www.butterhospitality.com
manages your online reputation. You get a custom branded SEO optimized website, data you control without losing 30% to 3rd parties, automated customer feedback, loyalty programs, built in chargeback protection and 24/7 support. https://restaurant.menufy.com/ MenuTiger: Seamless QR menus, ordering and payment right from a guest’s phone made simple. It’s about efficiency and guest convenience. See how much smoother your restaurant can run at https://www.menutiger.com
solutions that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. 1:1 Coaching Option Now Available. Join The Restaurant Academy now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1
Discover the proven financial playbook for a profitable restaurant: KPIs, menu profit, prime cost, and break-even strategies to maximize success.Want to maximize your profits and take control of your business? Dive into the Restaurant Academy and get access to Roger’s proven systems at restaurantrockstars.com.Connect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Thank you to our sponsors: •MenuTiger: Seamless QR menus, ordering and payment right from a guest’s phone made simple. It’s about efficiency and guest convenience. See how much smoother your restaurant can run at https://www.menutiger.com•TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.com•The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Train, prepare & lead your team with Michelin-level systems from Chef Franck’s 5 Ps of Leadership. Michelin-trained Chef Franck shares his proven framework for building high-performing restaurant teams. From his start as a 15-year-old apprentice in France to leading Michelin-starred kitchens and consulting for top hospitality brands, Chef Franck reveals how preparation, mentorship, and mindset create lasting success.Discover his “5 Ps of Leadership” — Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance — and how to apply Michelin-level discipline, empathy, and team development inside your own restaurant.This episode is packed with actionable leadership insights, real-world stories, and systems you can use to train, prepare, and lead your team to excellence.Perfect for restaurant owners, GMs, and chefs who want to elevate their culture, consistency, and results.Thank you to our sponsors: MenuTiger: Seamless QR menus, ordering and payment right from a guest’s phone made simple. It’s about efficiency and guest convenience. See how much smoother your restaurant can run at www.menutiger.com The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
What does it really take to achieve restaurant success?In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Roger sits down with Chef Todd Richards, a celebrated chef and concept developer behind some of the most innovative airport restaurants in the country. From starting in the dish pit to collaborating with celebrities like Ludacris on Chicken + Beer, Chef Richards shares the real lessons every restaurateur can use.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:•How to build restaurant concepts that connect with diverse guests•Why genuine hospitality always beats trends and tech fads•The logistics of running restaurants in airports (yes, even chained knives!)•How partnerships and pricing strategies drive repeat business•Leadership lessons to inspire and retain great teamsWhether you run one neighborhood bistro or multiple thriving locations, these insights will help you strengthen your systems, grow your team, and achieve lasting restaurant success.https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-459-restaurant-success/👉 Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast for more proven strategies, expert interviews, and insider tips: https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstars#RestaurantSuccess #ChefToddRichards #RestaurantRockstarsRun a Smarter, More Profitable Restaurant. Discover the proven systems & solutions that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. NEW! 1:1 Coaching Option Now Available.Join now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThe Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Discover proven restaurant marketing strategies that build loyalty, boost profits, and turn guests into brand ambassadors. From cash cows to mug clubs, Roger shares trackable, ROI-driven ideas that keep customers coming back.Restaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsRun a Smarter, More Profitable Restaurant. Discover the proven systems & solutions that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. 1:1 Coaching Option Available.👉 Join now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy
Learn the exact formula for restaurant profit and freedom from Roger, founder of five successful restaurant concepts. After 23 years in the business, Roger shares the three fundamentals that transformed his operations and allowed him to work on his business, not in it.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, you’ll discover:✅ How to track inventory, labor, and prime cost to maximize restaurant profit✅ Why menu engineering can uncover $350K–$885K in lost profit every year✅ The difference between hiring and recruiting — and how to build a dream team✅ How to empower “intrapreneurs” who run your restaurant like they own it✅ Proven marketing firepower: Mug Clubs, cash cows, hooks, and loyalty systems✅ Why Sales Stars training can double and triple sales year over yearRoger also explains how to create a company culture of accountability, recognition, and empowerment. From menu profit accelerators to raving fans and VIP guests, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to grow sales, lower costs, and multiply restaurant profit.📌 Want to stop leaving money on the table?Check out the Restaurant Rockstars Academy → https://restaurantrockstars.com use code pod20 to save 20% off
If you’re looking for real-world strategies to strengthen your team, tighten your numbers, and elevate your guest experience, this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is packed with actionable ideas. Jamie and Leo show that when you combine strong systems with leadership and creativity, you can build restaurants that thrive—even in the most competitive markets.If you’re looking for real-world strategies to strengthen your team, tighten your numbers, and elevate your guest experience, this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is packed with actionable ideas. Jamie and Leo show that when you combine strong systems with leadership and creativity, you can build restaurants that thrive—even in the most competitive markets.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:• Why cross-training is an investment, not a cost• How to hire for personality and train for skills• The key financial metrics to track weekly, not monthly• The importance of menu costing and timely price adjustments• Simple ways to build morale, recognition, and culture• How to mentor managers through shadowing and hands-on training• Social media and influencer strategies that drive new business• Why “experience” is the new standard for hospitalityListen now to hear Jamie and Leo’s full story and discover the systems that keep their restaurants strong, profitable, and built to last.Show Notes & Transcript: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-456-restaurant-systems/Thank you to our sponsors: • The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/• The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Work Less. Earn More.Discover how Keke’s Breakfast Café built a thriving 70+ location brand with a single-shift model, happy staff, and loyal guests. Learn the leadership principles, culture strategies, and operational systems that are redefining restaurant success.Run a Smarter, More Profitable Restaurant. Discover the proven systems that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. Inside the Restaurant Training Academy, you’ll get step-by-step tools to master your finances and multiply your revenue—plus get unlimited staff access and an onboarding coaching call with Roger included. 👉 Join now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with our guest:https://www.linkedin.com/company/keke's-breakfast-cafe-inc./https://www.facebook.com/KekesBreakfastCafe/https://www.instagram.com/kekesbreakfastcafe/ https://x.com/kekesThank you to our sponsors: •The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•Touch Bistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.• Fora Financial: Money and funding for restaurant inventory, new equipment, or whatever you choose. Easy apply, fast decision and up to $1.5M funding. Funding subject to terms and conditions. Go to www.forafinancial.com/rockstar•The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Too many restaurants obsess over food cost—but profit is what really matters. In this episode, Roger breaks down the food cost fallacy, how to calculate your true cost, and what to do instead to boost your bottom line. From portion control and inventory to menu redesign and training, this is a must-listen for every restaurant owner.Run a Smarter, More Profitable Restaurant.Discover the proven systems that drive sales, train staff, and maximize your margins. Inside the Restaurant Academy, you’ll get step-by-step tools to master your finances and multiply your revenue—plus unlimited staff access.👉 Join now: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: • Fora Financial: Money and funding for restaurant inventory, new equipment, or whatever you choose. Easy apply, fast decision and up to $1.5M funding. Funding subject to terms and conditions. Go to www.forafinancial.com/rockstar•The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/•Touch Bistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.
Are financial mistakes draining your restaurant’s profits? In this episode, we break down the top 10 restaurant financial mistakes—from tip reporting and payroll to sales tax and bookkeeping. Tax pro Cindy Montoya from KAC Consulting shares how to fix the leaks and boost your bottom line.Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:https://www.linkedin.com/company/kac-consulting-inc.https://www.facebook.com/kacconsultinghttps://www.instagram.com/kacconsultingThank you to our sponsors: •Touch Bistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.•The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/•The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•Fora Financial: Money and funding for restaurant inventory, new equipment, or whatever you choose. Easy apply, fast decision and up to $1.5M funding. Funding subject to terms and conditions. Go to www.forafinancial.com/rockstar
Join Roger as he welcomes Leslie Durso, a dynamic chef and culinary consultant who works with the Four Seasons and personal clients. Discover how Leslie blends health-focused culinary practices with profitability in the restaurant industry. Learn about handling food allergies, plant-based menu options that entice all customers, and the financial benefits of healthier choices. Leslie also shares her secrets for maintaining a positive workplace culture in high-profile luxury kitchens. Don't miss out on valuable tips for improving your restaurant's bottom line while catering to modern dietary needs.👉 Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: ⭐️ The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Fora Financial: Money and funding for restaurant inventory, new equipment, or whatever you choose. Easy apply, fast decision and up to $1.5M funding. Funding subject to terms and conditions. Go to https://www.forafinancial.com/rockstar⭐️ MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. https://myemployees.com/hospitality/⭐️ TouchBistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.⭐️ Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.com
Struggling with staffing? You’re not alone. In this episode, we uncover why 47% of your restaurant employees may be ready to quit—and what you can do about it. Leadership expert David Strange reveals proven hiring tactics, morale-boosting strategies, and the one thing most leaders miss. From “hire slow, fire fast” to the secret behind bottom-up leadership, this is your ultimate playbook for building a loyal, high-performing team.Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Thank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Fora Financial: Money and funding for restaurant inventory, new equipment, or whatever you choose. Easy apply, fast decision and up to $1.5M funding. Funding subject to terms and conditions. Go to www.forafinancial.com/rockstarMyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. https://myemployees.com/hospitality/TouchBistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line.
Most restaurant owners are missing this game-changing strategy. Roger shares the systems, team-building tactics, and menu hacks that turn restaurants into profit machines. If you want bigger margins and loyal staff, this is a must-listen.Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: •Touch Bistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.•The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: https://myemployees.com/hospitality•Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world r own from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.com
Roger talks to leasing expert Dale Willerton, also known as 'The Lease Coach.' With a wealth of experience in lease negotiation, Dale offers valuable insights into securing favorable lease agreements, negotiating renewals, lowering operating costs, and more. The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsRestaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsUnlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Listen to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast on Your Favorite Podcast Player:Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsConnect with our Dale:Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-willerton-2a1188238/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLeaseCoach/https://www.theleasecoach.com/
In this episode, we dive into the multifaceted challenges and rewards of running a restaurant with Chef Bobby Maher, who has a storied career in some of New York City's most demanding kitchens. Chef Bobby shares his journey from cutting his teeth in NYC to opening his own restaurant in the DC area during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the dynamics of front and back of house, the importance of cross-training, leadership, managing food costs, and maintaining team morale. Tune in to learn valuable insights and real-life stories from the bustling restaurant world.The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsRestaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsUnlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Listen to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast on Your Favorite Podcast Player:Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: • Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world r own from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.com• Touch Bistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.• The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/• Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.• MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: https://myemployees.com/hospitality
Discover how this unique brand has captured a multi-generational audience with its fantastic branding and product differentiation. Scott shares his extensive experience in marketing and the journey of revitalizing the Badass Coffee brand!The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsRestaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: (Only $7 for limited time) Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsUnlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Listen to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast on Your Favorite Podcast Player:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsConnect with our guest:www.badasscoffee.com@badasscoffeeofhawaii https://www.linkedin.com/company/bad-ass-coffee-hawaiiThank you to our sponsors: •The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/•Touch Bistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.•Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.•Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world r own from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.com•MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: www.myemployees.com/hospitality
Roger sits down with Christian Fischer, also known as the Disruptive Chef, to delve into key aspects of restaurant operations and running a successful restaurant!⭐️ The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits⭐️ Restaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: (Only $7 for limited time) Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits⭐️ Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Listen to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast on Your Favorite Podcast Player:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstars
Boosting Team Morale and Recognition in the Hospitality Industry | Restaurant Rockstars PodcastIn this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, host Roger Beaudoin is joined by David Strange from My Employees and Laurie Camara from Magna Hospitality to discuss the critical elements of building a strong, cohesive team in the hospitality industry. They delve into the importance of setting clear expectations, creating accountability, and recognizing and rewarding team members to enhance morale and productivity. Learn valuable strategies and best practices for fostering team spirit, encouraging initiative, and improving guest experiences through effective employee recognition programs. Tune in for insightful discussions on leadership, empowerment, and cultural shifts in the hospitality sector.🔥 The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits🔥 Restaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: (Only $7 for limited time) Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits🔥 Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy🔗 Show Notes & Transcript: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-445-employee-recognition/Thank you to our sponsors: ⭐️ TouchBistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus, real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend Becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.⭐️ Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.⭐️ Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.com⭐️ MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders up-level performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: https://myemployees.com/hospitality/⭐️ The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Discover restaurant management best practices with Chef Daniel's unique team-building philosophy. Learn how to build a strong, motivated kitchen and front-of-house team.The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsRestaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: (Only $7 for limited time) Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsConnect with our guest:Chef Daniel - @chef.daniellugoTrova - @trovarestaurantWyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Boutique Resort - @wyndhampalmashttps://www.wyndhampalmas.comThank you to our sponsors: MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: www.myemployees.com/hospitalityLilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.comThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/TouchBistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologiescustomers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
Struggling with high turnover in your restaurant? In this episode, Roger and Russ dive into how to reduce employee turnover, boost team morale, and lead with purpose. Learn how POS data, AI, and strong culture can transform your operations and keep your best people longer.The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsRestaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: (Only $7 for limited time) Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsConnect with our guest:https://www.agilenceinc.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/agilence-inchttps://www.linkedin.com/in/russhawkins/https://www.facebook.com/agilencehttps://x.com/agilenceThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.comMyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: www.myemployees.com/hospitalityTouchBistro: Touch Bistro helps speed up service, reduce errors and turn tables faster while loyalty programs, online ordering and contactless payments boost your bottom line. Plus real time analytics, inventory tracking and staff scheduling are game changers. Reach out to my friend becky, tell her I sent you and she will take good care of you! Her email is btartick@touchbistro.com or call her at 647-360-3994.Connect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1
In this episode, Roger discusses the fundamental differences between a manager and a true leader, focusing on how to get optimum performance from your team members through a culture of accountability. He introduces a comprehensive framework for effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of recognizing talent, empowering employees, and fostering a strong company culture. Roger shares insights from his own experience running restaurants with a 96% retention rate, illustrating how to develop 'intrapreneurs', maintain robust team morale, and implement a successful career development program. Tune in to learn about the vital components of a career description, the impact of regular performance reviews, and various incentive strategies to turn your employees into motivated leaders.00:00 Introduction to Leadership vs. Management00:48 The Essence of True Leadership02:38 Empowerment Over Delegation04:52 Building a Company Culture07:03 Fixing What's Broken08:59 Accountability and Career Descriptions13:35 Disciplinary Procedures and Incentives19:35 Recognition and Rewards25:29 Conclusion and ResourcesThank you to our sponsors: MyEmployees: A happy team is a productive team. Boost morale, team-spirit and employee appreciation with impactful, consistent and genuine recognition programs. MyEmployees helps thousands of hospitality leaders uplevel performance, lower turnover and build winning teams. Go To: www.myemployees.com/hospitalityThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.comThe Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsRestaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsRestaurant Menu Profit Accelerator:Many restaurants lose money every day because their menu just isn’t as profitable as possible. You can’t control rising costs but you CAN control how profitable your menu is, this is a massive game-changer: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/the-menu-accelerator/Make More Money In Your Restaurant EVERY DAY! Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy
In this captivating episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I had the pleasure of delving into the inspiring journey of Chef Giovanni, an acclaimed restaurateur with a vibrant family legacy in the restaurant industry. With three thriving locations in Las Vegas, Chef Gio shares his experiences, challenges, and insights into building and maintaining successful restaurants. The Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers & How To Fix Them Fast (Free Video Training): https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitsMake More Money In Your Restaurant EVERY DAY! Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Follow the Restaurant Profit Fast Track: Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to: https://lillysfreshpasta.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Andrew shares what it takes to be a remarkable General Manager and his journey in the restaurant industry, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their establishment's operations and culture. His experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for restaurant professionals aiming to refine their operations and build a robust company culture. Restaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsWant to Make More Money in Your Restaurant Every Day? Discover the Restaurant Profit Fast Track — your step-by-step guide to running a wildly profitable restaurant. ✅ Master your numbers✅ Boost daily sales ✅ Train & empower your team ✅ Multiply your revenue Plus, get unlimited staff accounts so your whole team levels up!! 🎓 Join the Restaurant Academy now: restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Profit Fast Track – A killer new module included in The Restaurant Academy. Become as profitable as possible as quickly as possible in 3 steps using the Restaurant Profit Fast Track! Running a restaurant is tough—but making it wildly profitable doesn’t have to be. Easy to follow step-by-step guide. https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta creates the finest fresh pastas from scratch using clean ingredients and old-world recipes passed down from mother to son. Lilly, the company matriarch and her son Antonio continue to follow the highest quality standards for their products. Ask your sales rep today or go to:https://lillysfreshpasta.comConnect with our guest: https://mahoganyprimesteakhouse.com/https://www.instagram.com/mahoganyprimesteakhouse/
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most powerful — yet often overlooked — tools in your restaurant’s success: the menu. More than just a list of dishes, your menu is a marketing asset and a key part of your brand identity.Restaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsRestaurant Menu Profit Accelerator:Many restaurants lose money every day because their menu just isn’t as profitable as possible. You can’t control rising costs but you CAN control how profitable your menu is, this is a massive game-changer: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/the-menu-accelerator/💸 Want to Make More Money in Your Restaurant Every Day? Discover the Restaurant Profit Fast Track — your step-by-step guide to running a wildly profitable restaurant. ✅ Master your numbers✅ Boost daily sales ✅ Train & empower your team ✅ Multiply your revenue Plus, get unlimited staff accounts so your whole team levels up!! 🎓 Join the Restaurant Academy now: restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, we're diving into the art and science of restaurant branding with Elizabeth Brasch, a marketing and branding powerhouse at Mellow Mushroom. Tune in for a masterclass in restaurant branding from one of the pros behind a truly iconic name in the industry.Restaurant Profit Maximizer Mini-Masterclass: Learn how just a few tweaks in the way you run your business can hugely impact your profits.https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsRestaurant Menu Profit Accelerator:Many restaurants lose money every day because their menu just isn’t as profitable as possible. You can’t control rising costs but you CAN control how profitable your menu is, this is a massive game-changer: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/the-menu-accelerator/Make More Money In Your Restaurant EVERY DAY! Unlock all the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable Restaurant. Master Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Unlimited Staff Accounts. Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsConnect with our guest:https://www.mellowmushroom.com/https://www.facebook.com/mellowmushroomhttps://www.instagram.com/mellowmushroom/https://www.tiktok.com/@mellowmushroomThank you to our sponsors: Lilly’s Fresh Pasta - Lilly’s Fresh Pasta is made to European standards with no preservatives or fillers. They use 100% non-GMO, glyphosate-free ingredients—Italian unbleached wheat and pure filtered water. Elevate your menu—serve Lilly’s Fresh Pasta in your restaurant. Ask your local food service rep or call Antonio directly at (603) 818-2100 https://lillysfreshpasta.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/The Restaurant Academy – Unlock the Secrets to Running a Highly Profitable RestaurantMaster Finances, Boost Sales, Train Staff, and Multiply Your Revenue! Running a restaurant is tough—but making it wildly profitable doesn’t have to be. It’s all in The Restaurant Academy Training System: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Roger dives deep into the world of restaurant operations with hospitality impresario Josh Kopel. Josh, a Louisiana native who rose to prominence by transforming a Los Angeles dive bar into a Michelin star restaurant, shares his journey and insights. The discussion covers a wide range of topics vital to restaurateurs, including leadership, company culture, marketing, customer experience, and maintaining relevance in a competitive industry. Josh emphasizes the importance of focusing on what works, leveraging high-impact sales strategies, and continuously evolving to meet guest expectations. 🔥 Whether you’re looking to optimize operations or seeking inspiration to reignite your passion for the business, this episode provides actionable advice and thought-provoking perspectives!Learn How To Make More Money In Your Restaurant: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsCourses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsIG: @joshkopelLI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuakopel1/https://joshkopel.com
In this episode, Matt Doright shares how he bought and transformed a 70-year-old restaurant into a thriving business using social media. Matt discusses his journey from a young entrepreneur to a successful restaurateur, focusing on the power of everyday content creation and audience engagement. The conversation delves into his viral video strategies, scaling his business through attention and creativity, and the importance of genuine team-building. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to harness social media to grow their business authentically and effectively.🔥 Learn How To Make More Money In Your Restaurant: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits/Courses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/The Restaurant Academy – Everything you need to execute powerful systems and empower your team to optimum performance. Finances, Staff Training, Menu Profit, Trackable Marketing.. its all in the Academy or separately at: https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-courses/ Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Connect with Matt:Matt DoRightRed Knapps Dairy Barhttps://mattdoright.com/https://www.facebook.com/matt.kirschner1/https://www.instagram.com/mattdoright/https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-kirschner-9150131b1/https://www.tiktok.com/@mattdorighthttps://x.com/MattDoRighthttps://www.youtube.com/@MattDoRight
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, Roger engages in a lively discussion with Laine Peterson of Spearhead Hospitality, highlighting the unpredictable and challenging nature of the restaurant industry! Don't miss this fascinating insight into the trials, triumphs, and everyday adventures of running a bustling restaurant.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Courses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Restaurant Academy – Everything you need to execute powerful systems and empower your team to optimum performance. Finances, Staff Training, Menu Profit, Trackable Marketing.. its all in the Academy or separately at: https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-courses/ The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Birthdays and birthday marketing are huge for restaurants…Think high check averages, repeat business & tons of great social media exposure. Best of all, birthday celebrations happen in restaurants EVERY day of the week! This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is all about how your restaurant can capture more BIRTHDAY BUSINESS! I’m speaking with Dyson Barnett CEO of the Birthday Club. Thank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/The Restaurant Academy – Everything you need to execute powerful systems and empower your team to optimum performance. Finances, Staff Training, Menu Profit, Trackable Marketing... it’s all in the Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Courses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstars
Roger hosts a solo episode of the Restaurant Rock Stars Podcast focusing on actionable and trackable marketing strategies for restaurateurs to attract new customers and retain existing ones. He shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on using creative marketing hooks, systematic training, and guest engagement to drive business growth and loyalty. Additionally, the episode highlights the significance of strategic alliances and the power of a Mug Club to create a devoted customer base. Roger aims to equip restaurant owners and managers with tools to dominate their competition and create lasting legacies.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/How to Start a Mug Club Course:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Thank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Restaurant Academy – Everything you need to execute powerful systems and empower your team to optimum performance. Finances, Staff Training, Menu Profit, Trackable Marketing... it’s all in the Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jeff Brosi and Terence Tubridy of industry leading IGC Hospitality Group. These guys bring extensive experience to bear on multiple restaurant and hotel concepts!Show Notes + Transcript: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-432-restaurant-experts/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Courses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/The Restaurant Academy – Everything you need to execute powerful systems and empower your team to optimum performance. Finances, Staff Training, Menu Profit, Trackable Marketing.. its all in the Academy or separately at: https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-courses/ Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
Dan Simons is an experienced and passionate restaurateur running multiple restaurants, a catering operation and a distillery with 1,500 employees serving guests three meals a day. How does he do it and keep all the balls in the air? Discover Dan's secrets to success as he builds a restaurant empire!Courses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn Roger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016LinkedIn Restaurant Rockstars: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restaurant-rockstarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://x.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsConnect with our guest:@foundingfarmers@foundingfarmerscatering@dansimonssaysThank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1-day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Roger talks insights and tips with seasoned hospitality professional Simon Zatyrka. They discuss the importance of leadership, culture, and systems in running a successful restaurant. Transcript: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-430-restaurant-success/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Courses to Rock Your Restaurant:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Thank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comConnect with our guest:https://www.simonsez.me/culinary-mechanicIG: @culinary.mechanicTT: @culinarymechanicYT: @CULINARYMECHANICLI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-zatyrka/website: culinarymechanic.comemail: simon@culinarymechanic.com
This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is dedicated to hospitality, service, and the art of SELLING! I emphasize the importance of team training, transforming staff into knowledgeable brand ambassadors, and turning dining into an extraordinary experience. I discuss actionable strategies for boosting sales, such as recommending premium items, leveraging special hooks, and maintaining rigorous service standards. I also highlight the power of creating memorable guest experiences and shares anecdotes and techniques from his own successful restaurant ventures. This episode includes tips on pre-shift meetings, enhancing kid-friendliness, recognizing staff achievements, and implementing effective marketing tools.Don’t miss it!Show Notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-429-restaurant-sales/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Restaurant Courses:https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-coursesThe Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comThe Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
Did you know that 50% of your customers are likely to either be cutting alcohol entirely from their drink choices or balancing between non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages?In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Meagan Coester and Rachel Martin who are both leading the non-alcoholic beverage boom with delicious beer and wine product offerings for restaurant beverage programs.Thank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comConnect With Our Guest:AFicioNAdo™ Certification Programalcoholfreeaficionados.comcannabevcertification.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/af_icionados/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlcoholFreeAficionados/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/af-icionadosGo Brewinggobrewing.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/gobrewing/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gobrewery/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gobrewingEasy Man - THC Infused Hemp Brewdrinkeasyman.comalcoholfreeaficionados.commeagen@alcoholfreeaficionados.comOceano Wineshttps://www.instagram.com/oceanowineshttps://www.instagram.com/rachel_oceanohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-martin-oceano/https://www.linkedin.com/company/oceano-zero/https://www.facebook.com/rachel.martin.96/https://www.facebook.com/oceanowines
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, host Roger Beaudoin discusses the 'Excellence Over Everything' approach with President Nina Quincy of Rex Hospitality Group. They dive into leadership, finances, team building, and guest services. Nina shares insights on hiring strategies, training practices, company culture, and maintaining quality amidst rising costs. She highlights the importance of efficiency, adapting to market changes, and innovative marketing. Real-life stories, both successful and challenging, add practical context to the conversation. Tune in for actionable ideas and inspiring success stories from the hospitality industry.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:@mavenhouston@rexhospitalitygroup@drink.mavenThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comThe Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Boost Your Restaurant Profits in 2025: Essential Tips & Strategies - In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, host Roger Beaudoin shares actionable and proven ideas to help restaurant owners boost their bottom line. Roger covers vital topics, including inventory management, food and labor cost calculation, menu costing, and identifying your restaurant's daily break-even point. He introduces tools and templates available in the Restaurant Academy that can streamline these processes. Whether you are just starting out or looking to maximize profits in your existing business, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you make more money in the new year!Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors:🌟 TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.com🌟 Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.🌟 The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstar
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, Roger hosts David Steele, chairman of Great Gold Hospitality Group and Flour and Water Hospitality Group. They dive into strategic planning, essential systems, staff training, leadership, accountability, marketing, and tech stacks crucial for a successful restaurant business. David shares his journey from dishwasher to finance professional to prolific restaurateur, emphasizing the importance of business principles, consistent P&Ls, and training. They also discuss the significance of proactive planning, promoting from within, managing financials, and the evolving roles of tech and marketing in the hospitality industry.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with our guest:https://www.facebook.com/david.steele.5661 https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-steele-76088a/ https://www.instagram.com/davidgsteele/https://davidsteele.xyz/fwhospitality.comgreatgoldtahoe.comThank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.com
Join us on this episode of the Restaurant RockStars podcast as we dive deep into the culinary journey of Mark, a key player in the Indigo Road Hospitality Group. From his humble beginnings as a dishwasher to becoming the Culinary Director of an esteemed hospitality group, Mark shares invaluable insights on kitchen management, culinary education, and leadership. He discusses the influence of his mentors, the importance of family meals, and the core values that drive Indigo Road's success. Mark also provides a peek into the process of opening new restaurants and maintaining high standards across multiple locations. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.We discuss:•Mentorship and Career Growth•Leadership Philosophy•Hiring Philosophy: Experience vs. Attitude•Building a Positive Company Culture•The Importance of Family Meal•Recognizing and Rewarding Excellence•Financial Management in the Restaurant Industry•Opening New Restaurant ConceptsLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyThank you to our sponsors: TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comSculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Adam Klaers, the Executive Vice President of legacy brand Roy Rogers Restaurants.Listen as Adam shares:•His approach to increasing restaurant sales transactions and growing profit•What dining guests are seeking in these challenging restaurant times•Marketing strategy that works in a highly competitive restaurant landscape•Solutions to today’s restaurant labor struggles and inflation•Menu and promotional decisions including “Limited Time Offers (LTOs)” & “Loss Leaders”•Overcoming negative media against high Quick Serve restaurant “price perceptions”•Creating a successful restaurant retail merchandise programAnd hard-won advice for independent restaurant owners to keep their brand relevant.Don’t miss this episode!FREE DOWNLOAD: Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/It’s time to train your team to run your restaurant as if they “owned it”, with attention to detail, quality and an eye on profit. Even better It’s turn-key and you don’t have to do the training! Now, with the Restaurant Academy at https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/ , you can assign any lesson to any and all team-members to learn every aspect of running a successful restaurant. Best of all, you can track their progress and achievements from within the Academy.It’s a restaurant Game-Changer. Get the Academy and you also get a personal call with me to discuss your restaurant challenges and solutionsGet the Academy, then go ROCK YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1
Yorgo has had immense career successes with some of this country’s leading restaurant companies and groups. Listen as Yorgo shares true restaurant expertise including:•What it takes to double sales and restaurant profits•The “Keys” to employee training, performance and retention •Solutions to today’s restaurant labor struggles and inflation•Delivering true hospitality, consistency and quality every shift every day•The KPI’s and financials that every restaurant should monitor•Proven restaurant marketing strategiesLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:•Instagram: giordanospizza•Facebook: giordanospizza •X: GiordanosPizza•Tik Tok: giordanos_pizza•https://giordanos.com
In this Restaurant Rockstars podcast episode, I interview Gui Jaroschy from Unfiltered Hospitality to discuss the critical elements that drive successful bar operations. Gui shares crazy bar stories, emphasizing the importance of hospitality as a foundational element of the business.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1https://www.linkedin.com/in/gui-jaroschy-005246162/https://www.unfilteredhospo.com/Instagram: @unfilteredhospoThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.com
Chef Zach dishes on the magic formula for restaurant operations including labor solutions, KPI’s to be watching, great marketing strategies & hooks that drive biz. This is a great episode!Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:https://linktr.ee/chefzacharyluke@chefzacharylukehttps://www.theblvdsteakhouse.comThank you to our sponsors: TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstar
To achieve restaurant management success, create a brand and run a strong profitable business you need to know your restaurant inside out. When was the last time you got behind the bar, cooked on the line, ran the counter or even took a turn in the dish pit?Working in the trenches gives you a fresh perspective how all the moving parts of your restaurant work together to deliver hospitality and great dining experiences for your guests.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I speak with Daniel Frazier, Director of Operations and GM of a 3-location place called Pharmacy Burger. Daniel started his career as a host, then moved up and around just about every position.Tune in as Daniel shares his restaurant management journey as we discuss: •Stepping into Leadership and key lessons learned from mastering nearly every restaurant position•Hiring Criteria and Expectations - Accountability, discipline, recognition & rewards that work•Onboarding Process - How to onboard team members for restaurant management success in every position•Delivering true hospitality, consistency and quality every shift every day•Financial controls and the “Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) necessary in any restaurant•Marketing and Technology that workAnd Daniel’s best advice to set yourself apart from the competition!Don’t miss this episode!What if you could train your team to run your restaurant as if they “owned it”, with attention to detail, quality and an eye on profit. What if this was turn-key and you didn’t have to do the training? Now, with the Restaurant Academy at https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/ , you can assign any lesson to any and all team-members to learn every aspect of running a successful restaurant. Best of all, you can track their progress and achievements from within the Academy - https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/ Get the Academy, then go ROCK YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:1. https://thepharmacyburger.com/2. Instagram: @thepharmacynashville 3. Facebook: facebook.com/thepharmacyburgerThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.com
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I speak with Mr. Sebastian Stahl, a marketing expert, the founder of Breadth Marketing Agency and author of 'Restaurant Marketing Insider.' We discuss common marketing mistakes made by restaurants, the importance of effective staff training as brand ambassadors, and the need for trackable marketing. We also cover the significance of running a restaurant as a business with foundational systems such as cost controls, maximizing profit, and delivering a consistent brand experience. Sebastian shares insights on positioning, branding, and loyalty programs, and emphasizes the need for strategic and measurable marketing campaigns. After listening to this episode, you will gain valuable advice on creating a strong restaurant brand and effective marketing strategies.Listen as Sebastian advises and informs on everything restaurant marketing including:•Why restaurants are continuing to fail in record numbers•The Impressions that undermine your brand and mistakes restaurants make•What’s “Positioning” all about•How to stay relevant with today’s diners•A marketing rule of thumb for spending as a percentage of sales•Social Media what to post, where, when and how often•The importance and how to’s of Promotions•Loyalty programs and building your restaurant repeat businessMarketing is important, but not at the expense of Profit. Your restaurant needs both. My Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you immediately actionable ways you can boost your restaurant’s bottom line!Get it at www.restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerIt’s a restaurant Game-Changer. Now go ROCK YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:His podcast: https://restaurantleadersunplugged.buzzsprout.com/ His book: https://a.co/d/4Jo37qP Social media links: Instagram, LinkedInhttps://breadthmarketing.comThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comSculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1-day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.com
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I welcome Chef Albert Di Meglio of Barano in Brooklyn, NY. Chef Albert has worked for some of the most acclaimed and successful restaurants. This episode is all about key-learnings and best practices.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:•Barano - @baranobk•Chef Albert - @AlDiMeglio•https://www.baranobk.comThank you to our sponsors: TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comSculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I’m speaking with John Issa a 29 year hospitality veteran, co-owner and partner in the highly diversified INVIC2S Hospitality Group in DC. INVIC2S operates a bakery, beer garden, sports bar, niteclub and craft cocktail bar.Listen as John shares:•How he learned to let go of Micromanaging to become a true inspired leader•The consistent experiences and unique concepts that set their group apart•Team Building, Staff Development and Culture with a Family feel•Remaining objective about the business with “eyes on the prize”•Critical decisions, big wins and fails•Marketing, Hooks & finding InfluencersAnd importantly, “Cross Promotion”, loyalty and keeping guests patronizing their different concepts.Don’t miss this episode!Speaking of Team Building, the Restaurant Rockstars Academy provides a framework to lead, establish accountability and motivate your team to move your business and profits to new levels of success. You can assign lessons to any team-member, track their progress and watch them grow your business. Check it out now at: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:@publicbarlivedc, @saufhausbiergarten, @daspretzelhaus and @invic2s_groupThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality are your restaurant’s Food & Beverage Inventory experts. Don’t leave thousands of dollars in Profit to chance when there is a simple Inventory system! Sculpture Hospitality don’t just manage your inventory, they give you a clear picture of your restaurant’s profitability. Get a no obligation FREE Inventory Consult at https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.com
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Michel Falcon, a restaurateur and entrepreneur behind the multiple location Brasa Peruvian Kitchen. Michel has a very different and fresh take on company culture and restaurant teamwork. In these times of staffing shortages and challenges, Michel’s approach just may be the way forward.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RestaurantRockstarsAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstars#hospitality #podcast #restaurantmanagement #successfulbusiness #restaurantindustry #companyculture #recruiting #restauranttips #restaurant #restaurants
Make no mistake, there is a strategy behind designing a great restaurant menu. Whether your current menu needs refreshing or your soon to open your first place, this is your episode. The discussion highlights the art of effective menu strategy, covering topics like fonts, color choices, practical tips on optimizing menu items, enhancing profitability, and the benefits of separate beverage and kids' menus.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:https://terraslatepaper.comLinked In Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleewing/LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/terraslate-paperInstagram: @terraslatepaper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terraslatepaper/Thank you to our sponsors: TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1-day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I welcome Jamie Kenyon, Executive Chef and Partner of Bottino in New York City.He discusses his career progression, beginning with French cuisine and transitioning into Italian, highlighting the influence of mentors.Jamie emphasizes the importance of hard work, continuous learning, and the pivotal role of his dedicated team. Additionally, he touches on his leadership and hiring philosophy, focusing on attitude over experience. Jamie also shares insights on maintaining a restaurant's popularity through social media, the significance of menu changes, and the intriguing operation of pop-up restaurants.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E412RRPLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/The Restaurant Academy Training SystemWe will train you and your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:@chefjamiekenyonhttps://www.bottinonyc.comFor information about sponsoring the podcast email: roger@restaurantrockstars.com
Join host Roger Beaudoin on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast as he sits down with Rich Clark, co-founder of C&S Restaurant Group, to discuss the secrets to staying competitive in Atlanta's bustling restaurant scene. Rich shares insights into overcoming challenges like inflation, labor costs, and growing a successful restaurant team. Discover how his unique journey in the hospitality industry, from humble beginnings to managing high-end eateries, shaped his approach to leadership and profitability. Learn about strategic marketing, navigating the complexities of managing multiple restaurants, and Rich's vision for future growth. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for restaurateurs looking to enhance their operations and customer experience.Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Thank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comConnect with our guest:https://www.instagram.com/candsseafoodhttps://www.candsoysterbar.comhttp://www.candschowderhouse.com/about.html
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I speak with Dan & Conor Sullivan, , the brothers behind Bumpa's.Hear their story of leaving corporate jobs to pursue a family-inspired vision, the challenges they faced (including opening during the COVID-19 pandemic), and the key factors that have made Bumpa's a beloved local establishment. From embodying their grandfather's spirit to navigating financial hurdles and creating an inviting atmosphere, discover the elements that contribute to their success in one of America’s most competitive food cities. Plus, get a sneak peek into their future plans and community-driven events. Don't miss out on their insightful journey and tips for running a thriving restaurant!Check out my my short but effective mini masterclass: The “Restaurant Profit Maximizer” can do just that and transform your business to money-making powerhouse! www.restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerConnect with our guest:Instagram: @bumpas_chsFacebook: facebook.com/bumpaschsWebsite: bumpas-chs.comThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct. Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.com
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I welcome Chef Julian Medina. We discuss his restaurant portfolio, his leadership style and team culture as well as: how he monitors critical restaurant numbers, how he maintains and grows margins, some of his best practices and even his appearance on “Iron Chef America”.Thank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Connect with our guest:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefmedinanyc/https://www.chefmedina.comLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Connect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1
Ryan discusses the importance of automation and engineering in enhancing kitchen safety and efficiency. Learn about Total Oil Management and Auto Mist, services designed to streamline oil handling and hood cleaning, respectively. Discover how these technologies reduce risks, save costs, and improve overall kitchen operations. Stay tuned for insights on how these solutions benefit both large chains and independent operators, and how they contribute to environmental sustainability through renewable energy.Thank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1
Join us on the Restaurant Rockstars podcast as Chef Andy shares his culinary journey from high school ice cream shop to a prominent chef in Charleston. Discover his experiences working with top restaurateurs and the importance of teamwork and mentorship in the restaurant kitchen. Learn about his dynamic kitchen environment, menu innovation, sustainability efforts, and balancing financials in today's challenging restaurant industry. Whether you're an aspiring chef or a restaurant owner, this episode is packed with invaluable insights!Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with our guest:oInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/fleetlanding/oFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/fleetlanding/Thank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/TerraSlate menus are waterproof, rip-proof, antimicrobial and easy to clean. They ship to every state and over a hundred countries with a fast 1 day turnaround and Free overnight shipping. Get your menus from TerraSlate at https://terraslate.comUberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Email roger@restaurantrockstars.com
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I am joined by Chris Tripoli, founder of Multiple Concepts. We discuss Chris's extensive career in the restaurant industry, starting as a busboy and evolving into a concept developer, owner-operator, and consultant. Key topics include the importance of passion, mentorship, systems, financial acumen, recruiting vs. hiring, company culture, and the balance between hospitality and technology. Chris shares valuable insights and advice for restaurant owners and managers, emphasizing that success begins with people and requires continual learning, adaptation, and strong leadership.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Thank you to our sponsors: UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comThe Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Connect with our Guest:Instagram @christripolifcsihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ctripoli/chris@christripoli.comwww.christripoli.comRequest Roger as a podcast guest or event speaker - email roger@restaurantrockstars.com
This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Hunter Evans, a chef driven by early inspirations from his grandmother in New Orleans. Hunter shares his journey from the Culinary Institute of America to working with Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group. He established his restaurant Elvie's in Jackson, Mississippi, and his current project is reopening the historic Mayflower restaurant. The discussion covers key themes of culinary education, the importance of culture in the restaurant business, building and leading a team, and Hunter’s personal and professional growth. Additional topics include marketing, hospitality, hiring practices, and the balance between creativity and business management in running a restaurant.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Thank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct. Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast Brett Linkletter, co-founder of Dishio, delves into the transformative power of restaurant technology and marketing strategies. We explore how restaurants can leverage digital menus, smart data collection, and innovative marketing techniques to enhance customer experiences, boost profitability, and overcome industry challenges. From the story behind Dishio's inception to the benefits of multilingual menus and trackable marketing, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for restaurateurs. Don't miss out on learning how to rock your restaurant's growth with cutting-edge tech solutions.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: FREE DOWNLOAD: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Connect with our guest:- Brett: @brettlinkletter- Dineline: @dinelineco - Dishio: @getdishio - Podcast: @restaurantmisfits- https://get.dishio.com- https://dineline.coThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/
In this episode on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Gail Kurpgeweit, Gail has had great success launching over 100 restaurant brand products for scale and getting them placed in major supermarkets and famous name big box stores.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/UberDirect: With Uber Direct, you take orders on your website, app or by phone. Then, drivers from Uber’s courier network pick them up from your place and deliver them to your customer’s doorstep. Delivery just got better with Uber Direct.Learn more at https://www.uberdirect.comThe Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/
In this week’s episode on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with David McClaskey, a 50-year trainer who shares that effective restaurant training cultivates excellence in both employees and entire organizations. Listen as David tells us the secrets to effective restaurant training including: • The meaning of leadership and how to shift your managerial approach• How to overcome the labor and staffing crisis and retain great people• Striving for and developing your restaurant training for 100% optimum performance• Key learnings from David’s own personal restaurant experiences from on the road• The change that’s possible in your restaurant training• A framework for restaurant training successDavid also shares some powerful case studies and client results from a concept with 31 locations.Don’t miss out on the Restaurant Profit Maximizer while it is available. This easy to digest video course will help you INCREASE your PROFIT even as you battle inflation & high labor costs. https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizer Connect with our Guest:Facebook: @mcclaskeyexcellenceTwitter: @mcclaskeyexcelInstagram: @mcclaskeyexcellenceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mcclaskey-excellence-institutehttps://mcclaskeyexcellence.comThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Cirrus: cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays. You can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost. https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Everyone celebrates their birthday! Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Carsten Johannsen and Gary Wallach, restaurateur Co-Founding Partners of Renwick Hospitality Group who are blazing their own unique path in New York City.The Restaurant Profit Maximizer will show you proven ways to BOOST your restaurant bottom line. You have Nothing to lose but your shrinking margins. Check it out here https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerRock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsConnect with our guest:@renwicknyc https://www.renwicknyc.comThank you to our sponsors: Cirrus: cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost.Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
I’m speaking with Kacie Dancy, daughter of the Founder and V.P. of Operations at Pop’s Beef, a 17-location company that’s loved by its guests, employees and communities that it serves. Listen as Kacie tells us the secrets to restaurant longevity including: • Her key-lessons learned from growing up in this family restaurant• All the pieces that have made the biggest difference in Pop’s restaurant success• How to overcome the labor and staffing crisis and retain great people• Pop’s biggest operating challenges and how they are battling inflation • Pop’s restaurant finances system and key performance indicators (KPIs• The importance of giving to the local community and helping othersAnd finding the balance between all-important “word of mouth” marketing, paid advertising, social media and text messaging to continue growing restaurant traffic and loyalty.I am obsessed with restaurant profit and want to help boost your bottom-line. My new course The Restaurant Profit Maximizer will show you proven ways to INCREASE Profit to battle inflation and high labor costs. It’s just $7. Nothing to lose but your shrinking margins. Check it out here https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizer - Connect with our Guest:https://www.linkedin.com/company/pops-italian-beef/about/https://www.instagram.com/popsbeef/?hl=enhttps://popsbeef.comThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Cirrus: cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost.Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstar
Today on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mike Bausch, the co-founder and visionary behind Antolini’s Worldwide Hospitality Group with 7 concepts in 12 locations.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsConnect with our Guest:@mikeybausch@andopizza https://www.getunsliced.com https://www.andolinisworldwide.comThank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Cirrus: cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost.Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with restaurant training guru Rachael Nemeth.Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Rock Your Restaurant - Enroll Your Team in the Restaurant Academy:We will train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsConnect with Rachael:•LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/opus-so/•YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@opustraining•IG - https://www.instagram.com/get_opus/•Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/opus.so/•https://www.opus.so/
Today on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Gregg Majewski, the former CEO of Jimmy Johns, who’s now growing Craveworthy Brand’s multiple concepts in 24 states and counting. The Restaurant Profit Maximizer will show you proven ways to BOOST your restaurant bottom line. https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizer Connect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Guest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/craveworthy-brands/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craveworthybrands/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craveworthybrandsTwitter: https://twitter.com/CraveworthyUSWebsite: https://www.craveworthybrands.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CraveworthyBrandsThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Cirrus: cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost.Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rock Stars podcast, Roger chats with Reed Adelson, founder of Virginia's in New York City. Listen to Reed's inspiring founder's story, his navigation through family traditions, the fierce competition of NYC's restaurant scene, and overcoming various challenges. Gain insights on onboarding, staff training, marketing, and maintaining profitability in a high-cost city. Discover Reed's personal restaurant journey, from his first job in a Tampa steakhouse to working with renowned chefs like Charlie Trotter and eventually establishing Virginia's. Learn about his approach to menu creation, front and back of house dynamics, event pop-ups, and the importance of location. Don't miss this deep dive into the passion and strategy behind running a successful restaurant in one of the most competitive markets in the world.Thank you to our sponsors: Cirrus: LED digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost.Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this engaging episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, host Roger Beaudoin is joined by David Rycyna, CEO of Cirrus, to discuss the transformative power of digital signage for restaurants. They delve into the importance of visibility, guest engagement, and brand building, emphasizing how customizable LED signs can set a restaurant apart from the competition. David shares his journey from the hospitality industry to leading Cirrus and explains the technical aspects and business benefits of their innovative signage solutions. The episode covers practical insights on the installation process, maintenance, and advancements in LED technology, including fascinating features like AI-driven content personalization. Don't miss out on valuable tips to enhance your restaurant's marketing strategy and customer experience.Grab The Restaurant Profit Maximizer for only $7: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits/#395 Episode Page: https://bit.ly/E395RRPThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club: Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Cirrus: LED digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost. My listeners get the 1st Two Months FREE - Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarRestaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, host Roger Beaudoin chats with Mathew, a seasoned expert in the hospitality industry. Mathew shares his journey from a small town in Ohio to becoming a strategic leader in national restaurant operations.[FREE] Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoConnect with our guest:https://emerging.comhttps://www.instagram.com/EmergingFeed/https://www.linkedin.com/company/emerginginc/https://x.com/emergingfeedThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Cirrus: Cirrus - Cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost. Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, Roger welcomes Court, a seasoned restaurant marketing guru and coach. They delve into various strategies for effective restaurant marketing, from building a lead generation database and managing time effectively to creating captivating social media content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Roger and Court highlight the importance of differentiating your restaurant's brand through VIP clubs, loyalty programs, and unique customer experiences. They also discuss the power of tracking marketing efforts to ensure high ROI and the benefits of leveraging Gen Z staff for content creation. Tune in to discover actionable insights to enhance your restaurant's profitability and customer engagement.👉 The Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out here https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Cirrus - Cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost. Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this episode of The Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Roger chats with Larry, of P3 Cost Analysts, about how restaurants and hospitality businesses can save significant amounts of money on non-payroll expenses. Larry explains that P3 Cost Analysts specializes in reducing costs for telecom, utilities, waste management, and more—achieving savings from 20% to 40%. The discussion covers the types of clients served, the process of auditing expenses, and the reasons why working with an expert can yield better results than attempting self-audit. Discover how the service leverages extensive experience, inside knowledge, and a proprietary database to negotiate better rates and ensure compliance with vendor contracts. With an impressive 90% success rate in cost reduction, this episode is vital for any restaurant operator looking to maximize profitability while focusing on their core business operations. Tune in to find out how you can benefit from these cost-saving strategies!The Restaurant Profit Maximizer is only $7 and will teach you proven ways to increase profit in your restaurant. Check it out here https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Cirrus: Cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life & increase customer traffic and sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays.Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost. Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Debbie Roxarzade, the Founder of Rachel’s Kitchen. Debbie built seven successful restaurants in Los Angeles and then decided to move her restaurant business to Las Vegas. What’s her secret sauce?Listen as Debbie speaks about restaurant business success including: • Key-learnings that made the biggest difference in her 20+ year restaurant career.• Reinventing herself amidst celebrity chefs and thousands of restaurants• The importance of repeat business in a tourist town• Rachel’s company culture, team spirit & formula for success• Today’s restaurant challenges i.e.: labor, cost of goods and shrinking margins.• Training & recognizing staff for top performance.• Cross-promoting your restaurants with multiple locations.For only $7 The Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out here https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Cirrus: cirrus led digital signs attract attention, bring your business to life and increase customer traffic & sales. Cirrus signs are versatile and allow easy changing of content and displays. Best of all, with cirrus you can subscribe to pay with low monthly payments and no upfront cost.Go to https://try.cirrusled.com/rockstarRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.
For just $7, The Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out - https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/ - Use code podcast15 for 15% off.Episode Page: https://bit.ly/E390RRPThis episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast features an in-depth discussion with Parsa Riahi, an AI expert, on the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the restaurant industry. They explore how AI is revolutionizing logistics, finances, staffing, marketing, pricing, and competitor analysis for restaurants. The conversation highlights practical applications of AI, including demand forecasting, optimizing labor and inventory costs, enhancing customer service, and effectively responding to competition. Additionally, Parsa introduces Dyne, an AI solution designed to streamline restaurant operations and increase profitability. The podcast emphasizes the potential of AI to significantly improve the efficiency, marketing impact, and overall success of restaurants.Thank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com/ or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Connect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstars
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/👉 Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E389RRPThis episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast features an in-depth conversation with Steve Shlemon, the President of and a key figure behind the successful restaurant chain, Ford's Garage. Born out of a passion for the Ford Motor Company's rich history, Ford's Garage melds the worlds of automotive nostalgia with culinary delight, creating a unique dining experience that appeals to a broad audience. Steve shares his journey from his early days in the restaurant industry in Chicago to the conceptualization and fruition of Ford's Garage. The discussion delves into the brand's origins, its partnership and licensing agreement with the Ford Motor Company, and the innovative strategies employed to enhance customer experience and maintain brand relevancy. Steve also talks about the challenges of the restaurant business, including navigating the labor market, leveraging technology to improve service efficiency, and the importance of local marketing and community engagement.Listen, I’ve been talking about our Restaurant Profit Maximizer… it’s a powerful course that can immediately boost your restaurant’s bottom line! For just $7, The Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out here https://restaurantrockstars.com/profitmaximizerThank you to our sponsors: 🌟 The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.🌟 Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/🔗 Connect with our guest:•https://fordsgarageusa.com/•https://www.instagram.com/fordsgarageusa/•https://www.facebook.com/FordsGarageUSA/•https://www.linkedin.com/company/fords-garage/🔗 Connect with Restaurant Rockstars on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1
The Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant: https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast features a comprehensive discussion with Jean-Manuel Izaret, a pricing strategy expert, on the nuances of pricing strategy and tipping in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Episode Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E388RRPConnect with Our Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/izaret/Thank you to our sponsors:🌟 The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/🌟 Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com/ or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.🌟 The National Restaurant Association Show: the biggest show in food service. Register now and get $55 off the current show rate using promo code PODCAST24 at https://www.nationalrestaurantshow.com Promotional offer expires on May 16. (Offer is redeemable through online registration and is only valid for operators. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotion and does not apply to current 2024 show registrants. Non exhibiting suppliers are subject to a higher badge rate.)
In this episode Jason Brooks and I discuss the importance of hospitality, leadership, and company culture in the restaurant industry.Jason emphasizes the role of accountability, the significance of onboarding, and the power of coaching in building effective teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences. They also touch on the challenges faced by the industry post-pandemic, the importance of soft skills, and strategies for recovery and building a stronger hospitality culture. 🌟 The Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out - https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits 🌟 Connect with our guest:Twitter: @2LeadNSucceedInstagram: @2LeadNSucceedLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jason-e-brooks Website: www.jasonebrooks.com Website Book Link: https://www.jasonebrooks.com/everyleader🌟 Thank you to our sponsors:Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to https://www.rti-inc.com/ or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The National Restaurant Association Show: the biggest show in food service. Register now and get $55 off the current show rate using promo code PODCAST24 at https://www.nationalrestaurantshow.com - Promotional offer expires on May 16. (Offer is redeemable through online registration and is only valid for operators. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotion and does not apply to current 2024 show registrants. Non exhibiting suppliers are subject to a higher badge rate.)The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Anne Beiler, the founder of international restaurant success story “Auntie Anne’s Pretzels”. Anne learned the meaning of hard work, integrity, and persistence at an early age, but had many moments of doubt and lack of confidence. Despite all odds and immense personal tragedy, Anne rose above her challenges to create a global empire. Listen as Anne shares her story of restaurant success including: • How she overcame heartbreak, the limits of an 8th grade education, no money, and no business plan to create huge restaurant success• Instilling values and recognizing your people’s talents and successes• The true meaning of leadership• How one word “Light” created a powerful restaurant culture• Marketing mistakes that led to greater successes• Marketing product quality with “sampling” to drive business• Advice on growing from 1 location to 5 and even more• Your team delivering great guest experiences are what it’s aboutWhether you’re running a single location, adding locations, or creating your own empire, Anne’s approach is more than inspiring.Don’t miss this episode!Listen, would you spend less than the cost of a fancy beer on boosting your restaurant profit? That’s right for just $7, our Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out - https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits and then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:•Facebook: Auntie Anne Beiler•Instagram: @auntieanne•website: https://auntieannebeiler.com/Thank you to our sponsors: Restaurant Technologies: takes care of your fry oil challenges. They handle everything end-to-end from delivering, filtering monitoring, collecting, and recycling your waste cooking oil. Restaurant Technologies customers save 10-15% on their insurance premiums and even get bonuses for any new customer referrals. Go to www.rti-inc.com or call 866-399-3639 to get started today.The National Restaurant Association Show: the biggest show in food service. Register now and get $55 off the current show rate using promo code PODCAST24 at www.nationalrestaurantshow.com Promotional offer expires on May 16. (Offer is redeemable through online registration and is only valid for operators. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotion and does not apply to current 2024 show registrants. Non exhibiting suppliers are subject to a higher badge rate.)Tock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jim Collins, the owner of Town Kitchen and Grill in California. Jim wasn’t born from the restaurant business, but he certainly has a way with running a successful restaurant and leading his employees to greatness!Listen as Jim shares his story, failures, successes, and his philosophy on running a great restaurant including: • Valuable lessons learned from his tech career that he applies to his restaurant daily• His passion of building a great restaurant and recognizing his people’s successes• The true meaning of leadership• Early restaurant experiments, failed ideas, and ultimate successes• Necessary technology that fills seats• The importance of knowing your restaurant numbers and tracking “kpi’s”• The guest experience is what it’s all about• If it’s not fun anymore, why do it?Whether you’re running a single location or building a national chain, Jim’s approach is a model to be followed. And his restaurant employees really love his free-meal policy!Don’t miss this episode! Show Notes - https://bit.ly/E385RRPListen, would you spend less than the cost of a fancy beer on boosting your restaurant profit? That’s right for just $7, my Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out - https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits and then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: The National Restaurant Association Show: the biggest show in food service. Register now and get $55 off the current show rate using promo code PODCAST24 at www.nationalrestaurantshow.com Promotional offer expires on May 16. (Offer is redeemable through online registration and is only valid for operators. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotion and does not apply to current 2024 show registrants. Non exhibiting suppliers are subject to a higher badge rate.)Tock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits, maximize sales and train your team in restaurant fundamentals! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
This business is all about “SHOW BIZ! Guests don’t just come into a restaurant for food & drink, they’re looking for an experience. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Dale Schwartz, CEO & Co-Founder of Pinstripes, which is a restaurant concept that boasts giant spaces for bowling, bocce, delicious bistro dining, events, and fun. These restaurant concepts are as large as 30,000 square feet on multiple levels. Not every restaurant and bar has this much space, but the ideas here can spark ideas of how to capture more guests and keep them spending money.Listen as Dale shares golden nuggets of wisdom about his restaurant concept including: • His approach to running a business, not restaurants.• The importance of “FUN FACTOR” for revenue, repeat business and buzz in the marketplace.• Why size can be a competitive advantage.• Essential and foundational brand-building• Creating a hospitality culture that “Wows” the guest• Effective leadership, staff training and recognition• Influencer marketing that drives businessWhether you’re running a single location or building a national chain, Dale’s experience and approach to the restaurant business is a great listen! Don’t miss this episode.Listen, would you spend less than the cost of a fancy beer on boosting your restaurant profit? That’s right for just $7, our Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsCheck it out and then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:•Pinstripes: Overview | LinkedIn•Dale Schwartz | LinkedIn•Pinstripes (@pinstripesbbb) • Instagram•Pinstripes | Facebook•Pinstripes (@PinstripesBBB) / X (twitter.com)Thank you to our sponsors: Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Tock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Restaurant Profit Maximizer mini-course teaches you how to boost profit in your restaurant. ONLY $7 https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profitsThat’s right, boost your restaurant profit for less than the cost of a fancy beer – Get it today then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!EPISODE NOTES:In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Howard Task and John Ebarhart of Restaurant Equippers, a family-owned company specializing in restaurant equipment going on 60 years.Listen as Howard and John talk about restaurant equipment including:• Common mistakes restaurants make when buying equipment. • New versus used restaurant equipment• Quality, life expectancy and warranty of today’s equipment• Current industry trends and hot popular restaurant equipment items• Restaurant Equippers highly experienced restaurant sales team that educate and help operators make the best choices for their restaurants.• Time saving, Energy-Star efficient and pieces that drive return on investment.• Preventative maintenance “do’s & don’ts”• Finding a balance between the best brands at the best priceWhen you need equipment, call my friends at Restaurant Equippers (800) 235-3325, go online at www.equippers.com you can also shop their giant warehouse stores in Michigan, Ohio, or New Jersey. If you Act Now until March 31, qualifying customers can Get 60 Days Financing with No-Interest, but hurry as this offer expires March 31, 2024.Thank you to our sponsors: Tock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Leading a great restaurant kitchen is difficult. It takes experience, skill, the desire to teach, patience, calm under pressure and the right chops. Most of all it takes a passion for food, people, and new experiences. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chef Jarad McConnell of Ocean Club St. Barths. He rose from culinary school, cooking competitions and numerous restaurant kitchens to nurture, lead and inspire his team to greatness.Listen as Chef Jarad shares his wisdom on restaurant kitchen success including: • The importance of having and being a mentor • Key learnings that to continue to influence and make a difference• How to exceed the highest guest expectations • Why being an “intrapreneur” advances restaurant careers• The keys to a strong kitchen culture• Team spirit between front and back of house• Why every impression and the smallest details countChef offers insights, experience, and advice to future and current culinary professionals.Don’t miss this episode!Listen, would you spend less than the cost of a fancy beer on boosting your restaurant profit? That’s right for just $7, our Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out at https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits and then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Marc Haine, a true operator’s operator, about leading and inspiring a restaurant team.As a young dishwasher Marc went on to master the kitchen. He never lost the hospitality bug and later ran three restaurants, became a Food & Beverage Director. Marc also founded a hospitality consulting firm, became a podcaster, and has authored a best-selling book: Lights, Camera, Action!Listen as Marc shares his wisdom on leading a great restaurant team including: • The true meaning of leadership• An employee experience strategy to get the most from your restaurant team• The magic formula for restaurant success• Necessary operating systems and restaurant best practices• His new book “Lights, Camera, Action”. Why the restaurant business is really “theatre” and how your restaurant team’s performances build happy guests and repeat businessMarc offers insights, experience, advice and most of all a leader’s approach to building your restaurant team and great guest experiences. Don’t miss this episode.Listen, would you spend less than the cost of a fancy beer on boosting your restaurant profit? That’s right for just $7, our Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out at https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits and then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Kelly Hoyman, Vice President of Marketing for an 85-unit concept called Wings and Rings. Kelly brings 30 years of proven restaurant marketing expertise to this episode.Listen as Kelly shares all things restaurant marketing including: • Lessons learned from 17 years in restaurant marketing for McDonald’s.• The role restaurant marketing plays in your own restaurant’s success• Essential and foundational brand-building• How to track Return on Investment with any marketing idea• The everyday importance of social media in your operation• Upleveling the guest experience as a competitive advantage• Loyalty and Rewards programs that really work.Whether you’re running a single location or building a national chain, Kelly offers great restaurant marketing advice from in the trenches! Don’t miss this episode.Listen, would you spend less than the cost of a fancy beer on boosting your restaurant profit? That’s right for just $7, my Restaurant Profit Maximizer course will show you proven ways to boost profit in your restaurant. Check it out https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits and then go Rock YOUR Profits and YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
I get that running your restaurant is a total commitment, and business challenges never stop. Tax time is upon us, April is looming and Restaurant Taxes are due. No worries, I’ve got your back.Know that now is the time to get your financial house in order before you send the books to your tax preparer. It’s not too late to clean things up for your 2023 restaurant taxes, make some moves that will preserve your bottom line and put you in the best possible tax position.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mirissa Harrison, a seasoned Certified Public Accountant with expertise in restaurant taxes and a passion to help you achieve your business goals.Listen as we discuss: • Mistakes that restaurants make when it comes to finances or running the business• The basics of financial understanding and acumen to Improve your operation• A crash course in restaurant financials and understanding the P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow and Daily Break-Eve • What you can do now to improve your tax position before you close the books on 2023• Steps to take moving forward quarterly to reduce your tax liability• The importance of “Basis” and what that means for owner compensation• How to maintain checks and balances with your bookkeeper or office managerThis is solid advice, and I’m speaking from experience when I say that Marissa recently helped me get my books ready and in the best tax position.Reach out to her at www.northpointfinancials.com and then go ROCK your restaurant taxes!RogerThe Profit Maximizer mini-course is now available - Learn how to maximize your restaurant profits! Only $7 - https://restaurantrockstars.com/sp/restaurant-profits/Thank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality: The solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Your restaurant inventory represents thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars of food and beverage sitting in your business at any given time. With so much opportunity for waste, spoilage, or loss, you really need to understand and manage all that value. When I coach restaurants, I tell them Not taking inventory is like leaving hundred-dollar bills all over your restaurant. You just wouldn’t do that, so don’t leave your restaurant inventory to chance. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Victoria Mosley and John Nanny, from Sculpture Hospitality, a tech platform that systemizes both your food and beverage restaurant inventory. Their people are former restaurant owners, GMs and other industry experts who are a fresh set of eyes that provide a hands-on approach to improving your business.Listen as Victoria and John explain:• Today’s biggest restaurant challenges and solutions• The importance of taking inventory and not just placing orders• How restaurants can leverage their purchase and sales data to increase sales, reduce losses and improve overall efficiency • Where valuable goods on hand may be hiding without proper storage procedures • The optimum frequency of restaurant inventory• How to easily account for prepped foods, pars and goods in processAnd best of all how Sculpture Hospitality provides customized restaurant inventory solutions that work for your business and budget from full-service to sharing responsibility to do it yourself service.Don’t miss this episode, get my FREE “Top 3 Ways You’re Killing Your Restaurant Profits and a bonus at www.restaurantrockstars.com/profits then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!Thank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarTock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.exploretock.com/join/Restaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Every owner and leader wants and needs to increase restaurant sales. Success here requires many things… efficiency, systems, excellent service, but most of all engaged loyal guests. Here’s where all the power lies.Guests want to be recognized, acknowledged, and served. Providing this at a high level requires a well-trained staff and seamless technology that makes this process simple, but authentic.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Matt Tucker, who heads up the hospitality tech platform Tock which optimizes restaurant sales, throughput, and guest satisfaction.Listen as Matt explains:• Today’s biggest restaurant challenges and solutions• What dining guests are looking for in any restaurant they choose• How restaurants can leverage data on guest preferences to provide personalized hospitality and build loyalty• How to achieve guest engagement • Ways to optimize reservations, turn the tables and increase restaurant sales through pre-paid events• How a restaurant can experiment with multiple guest experiences even at different tables• Easy set-up, quick onboarding and dedicated hospitality professionals at your serviceAnd how to drive demand and increase restaurant sales when you need it most with the Tock Platform. See it all with a free demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastDon’t miss this episode, get my FREE “Top 3 Ways You’re Killing Your Restaurant Profits and a bonus at www.restaurantrockstars.com/profits then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Tock: Increase restaurant sales, optimize guest throughput, and boost customer engagement all on one seamless platform. Request a demo at https://www.joinTOCK.com/podcastRestaurant Equippers: Top equipment brands, extensive inventory, everyday low prices, and 60 years serving independent food service operators. Only at https://www.equippers.com/ Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstar
I hear it time and time again. “My employees don’t do what I expect... they call out on shifts, or they don’t show up at all”!Since the pandemic; finding, keeping, and motivating restaurant employees has just gotten harder. They seem to have a different mindset... their work ethic doesn’t meet expectations... What to do?In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Scott Greenberg, a leadership and restaurant employee performance expert. On top of being a leading franchisee himself, Scott is an author and internationally acclaimed speaker for TEDx and leading top organizations in many industries.Listen as Scott advises:• The difference between true leadership and being a manager• How a restaurant can create a strong company culture• Understanding the values of younger workers and the four personality types of hourly restaurant employees• Effective ways to motivate today’s hourly restaurant employees • The difference between a “results oriented vs. “people oriented” approach• What is a “Peak Performance Mindset”• How to turn a “paycheck collector” into an A-PlayerAnd of course what you can learn and apply from Scott’s new book: Stop the Shift Show: Turn Your Struggling Hourly Workers Into a Top-Performing Team.Don’t miss this episode, get my FREE “Top 3 Ways You’re Killing Your Restaurant Profits and a bonus at www.restaurantrockstars.com/profits then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
As a restaurateur, you can’t afford to ignore technology. Since the pandemic, operators of every size have had to adapt to platforms and tools that offer guest convenience and operating efficiencies. The landscape keeps changing every day and to stay competitive, great food and service are no longer enough to keep guests coming in the door.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Brendan Sweeney and Tony Roy who run Popmenu, arguably one of the leading and fastest growing restaurant technology companies.We delve into the innovative ways PopMenu harnesses the power of artificial intelligence for answering phones, increasing customer interactions, enhancing menu engagements and marketing strategies. We also discuss how adopting such technologies can significantly increase restaurant profitability and improve operations, amid labor shortages and other challenges faced in the industry.Listen as Brendan and Tony explain:• What’s important to know about current and future restaurant technology.• Guest expectations in today’s dining or “to go” experiences.• How to get more customers, increase their frequency and boost your restaurant margins• The basics of Artificial Intelligence and why it’s the future of your restaurant operation• How your restaurant can benefit from 10 million plus data points on guest preferences• How to uplevel guest service and free staff time from answering your phone while still informing guests calling in.Brendan and Tony also highlight Popmenu’s exciting new partnership with Open Table and what’s coming next.Don’t miss this episode, get my FREE “Top 3 Ways You’re Killing Your Restaurant Profits and a bonus at www.restaurantrockstars.com/profits then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Don’t miss this episode, get my FREE “Top 3 Ways You’re Killing Your Restaurant Profits and a bonus at www.restaurantrockstars.com/profits then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!Every restaurant has its own unique story. But this one carries on a 152-year tradition. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Francesco Zimone. Francesco grew up in Naples, Italy where pizza and pizza making are a time-honored tradition. Francesco is an ex-finance person turned movie maker, turned pizzeria impresario who has brought authentic Naples’ pizza to America with four restaurant locations. As a young boy, he frequently visited L’antica Pizzeria da Michele for many family get-togethers. This pizzeria is not only famous for its century plus old recipe, but also notably appearing in the classic film Eat, Pray, Love!Listen as Francesco shares: • Careers in Finance and movie making before starting his restaurant journey.• How he brought his Neapolitan roots to Hollywood to authentically establish L’antica Pizzeria da Michele here in America• Opening new locations in New York City, Santa Barbara and soon to be Long Beach just four years after founding L’antica in Hollywood• The true meaning of hospitality and how to build a winning team• Why responding to every online review matters• Leadership, company culture and loyalty And of course, chasing the American Dream, wearing “all the hats” and never wavering on his authentic vision.The episode also highlights the business challenges faced due to COVID, how Francesco adapted to that and his vision of a restaurant as a place that brings people together in a warm, hospitable manner.Learn about Francesco's passion for food and quality, and how he is propagating this legacy in America. From his inspiring story, gain insights on running a successful restaurant and see the passion it takes to deliver a memorable dining experience.RogerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Abraham Merchant, veteran restaurateur, President & CEO of Merchant’s Hospitality. Abraham shares his philosophy on hospitality, employee retention, strategies for operational success, and the importance of public relations, marketing, and responding to online reviews. A major focus of the conversation is Abraham’s attitude towards scaling and maintaining relevance in a competitive landscape like New York City, while also expanding into new markets like Nashville and Miami.Listen as Abraham shares his restaurant journey including:• Emigrating from Pakistan and working his way up in this business• What he learned managing restaurants before starting a powerhouse restaurant group• Early challenges to ultimate restaurant success• The true meaning of hospitality and how to build a winning team• The aftermath of 9/11 and rising above the devastation to help rebuild downtown Manhattan. • Leadership philosophy, loyalty and developing company culture• A typical day at the top of the organization• Retaining staff amidst labor challengesAnd Abraham’s approach to adding value and growing margins amidst inflation.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/All successful restaurants have a secret formula. It might be about the food, or the relationships between owner, staff & guests. Perhaps it’s the marketing, or the location. Sometimes it’s a combination of all of these.How can your restaurant be more successful? Listen on!In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Doug Stritzel – the Founder of Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafes. Listen as Doug shares all about what makes a successful restaurant including:• Experience and key-learnings gained from other leading brands that built his restaurants.• Early challenges to ultimate restaurant success• The secret sauce of successful restaurants • The importance of valuing and empowering staff to combat the labor crisis.• Efficiencies and throughput for guest satisfaction and profit• Regularly tracking finances and the key performance indicators (KPIs) that matter most.• Rewards, loyalty programs and marketing that works.• The key to an effective social media programAnd Doug’s advice if you wish to grow your restaurant brand to multiple locations.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://SculptureHospitality.com/rockstarThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/SHOW NOTES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/371-restaurant-finances/I get it, many operators hate numbers, so they avoid them. But the truth is numbers really move the needle good or bad, and they ultimately determine your restaurant’s success or failure.When I owned restaurants, I was obsessed with my critical numbers and analyzed them each and every week. It’s one of the reasons my restaurants had more than double the net profit of the average full serve restaurant. With the right approach, you can too!In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Tom Rutledge, Founder and Managing Member of RDMS Group, restaurant finance guru and game-changer with expertise in payroll, food costing, labor analysis, budgeting, COGS trending, and financial viability.Listen as Tom tells:• The vital financial foundation your restaurant needs.• What restaurants need to do now to move forward post-pandemic?• How to deal with inflation and the labor crisis• The importance of maintaining margins despite rising costs• His best advice on inventory & prime cost• What to do about labor cost abusesAnd a key-takeaway, changing the mindset of running a restaurant to running a business.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Ask Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: Sculpture Hospitality is the solution to improve your bar or restaurant inventory and gain healthier profit margins! https://www.sculpturehospitality.comThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsVERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link:https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Josh Luger co-founder of Capital Tacos, a restaurant that started small, built a brand for itself and is now taking the country by storm.Listen as Josh shares:• The early brainchild and vision for his brand• Early growing pains and challenges of the first few restaurant locations• How leadership creates a strong company culture• Maintaining the “big picture” and systems necessary for restaurant growth• Important industry trends... the positive and negatives• Rewards, loyalty programs and marketing that works• Secret shopping for consistencyAnd the key-takeaway... How to scale your small restaurant brand and become the next biggest thing in restaurants.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy🌟 Episode Notes:In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Ty & Karen Raju, co-owners, and founders of Bene Hospitality Group. They are juggling multiple restaurants and concepts including Italian, Spanish and even New York style pizza! Listen as this couple shares:• How Ty balances an IBM career with founding three unique and very different restaurant concepts, becoming a certified sommelier and winning two Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence.• Husband and wife roles that create restaurant success.• How leadership creates accountability and team performance• The importance of smart financial controls, buying economics and constantly keeping an eye to the bottom-line• Their brand-building, cross-promotion, and guest loyalty strategy• The benefits of starting a wine club that introduces guests to the wonders of all things wine.• Finding time for community involvement and giving backAnd my favorite; the couple’s “4 C’s” - how communication, collaboration and contribution equal a strong culture.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:SAVI Cucina + Wine Bar - @savicucinaSommba Spanish Gastrobar - @sommbacocinaUpcoming concept, Woodhaven - @woodhavenpizzaWWW.SAVICUCINA.COM WWW.SOMMBACOCINA.COMThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoShow Notes:Everyone has personal challenges in life, some even go through extreme hardship! What you do with those emotions and experiences often determines your future.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chef Ahu of Istanbul Hawaii. Chef spent formulative years as a student in America and instantly felt a spiritual connection to Hawaii. Her personal struggles with extreme hardship lasted ten years, and then her dreams of opening a restaurant were nearly dashed. Only through the strength of character, perseverance and support of family did she finally achieve her dream of opening her restaurant.Watch or listen as Chef Ahu talks about her restaurant journey including:• How cooking with her mother healed her and rekindled her passion to combine art, psychology, and food• Her humble beginnings cooking in a tent at the farmer’s market and then growing to two tents, three and four.• Finding an ideal location for her restaurant space and building everything up from scratch including the walls and plumbing• The benefits of being resourceful, creative, and asking for help versus writing checks for what you need.• How their family-oriented company culture inspires her team and fosters amazing guest loyalty.• The ambiance that provides authentic experiences and transports guests to TurkeyAnd of course, how nurturing your team, giving them opportunities, and even supporting their decision to leave benefits all.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:@istanbulhawaiiwww.istanbulhawaii.comThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays:https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Ask Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstars🌟 Episode #367 Show Notes: Your restaurant is probably paying too much in taxes! Now, that I’ve got your attention I get it, you're the restaurant owner or GM, not the tax guy. But think about it, if you’re not pro-active about your money, nobody else will be.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with JT Pells, CPA. JT is known as the “Tax Quarterback”. He specializes in tax tips and tricks (totally legal) to save, make, and keep more money! This episode is power-packed. Watch or listen as JT shares tax tips:• How restaurant owners can live “tax free”• The most common mistakes restaurants make with their taxes• Why “tax credits” are like deductions on “steroids” and how to get them• What your current tax provider or CPA might be missing in your restaurant• How to maximize restaurant expenses to lower Net Income• Tax Liability based on your restaurant’s form of organizationLike JT says, “You work your ass off in your restaurant, so why not give yourself every advantage to make and keep as much money as possible”?JT’s giving away a free tax savings cheat sheet for our restaurant owner or GM listeners here: jtpells.com/rockstarsDon’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!Roger
Every restaurant has its unique story. Many of these are family run restaurants with recipes passed down from generations. Some find success with one location; others have big dreams and grow to multiple countries. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Blas Escarcega of Pollo Campero. This Guatemalan chicken restaurant concept first found huge success in Central America and other countries, and now continues to grow raving fans in the U.S. Show Notes:Thank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsPopmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstars
Show Notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-365-restaurant-business-no-experience/Thank you to our sponsors:The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsPopmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Connect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstars
Any great kitchen is the “Heart of House”. Honoring this house requires creating a culture of passion, pride, and commitment to consistent quality. This takes a unique leader who both inspires, teaches, recognizes talent, and elevates each and every guest experience from the culinary team right down to the dish pit.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chef Anthony Bucco, the Senior VP of Culinary Operations for a dynamic family run restaurant group known for elevated dining experiences in historic properties.Chef’s early hospitality beginnings began in his grandmother’s kitchen where the culture of food brought family closer together. Ambition through his pride, passion and hard work rose Chef to the top of our industry. Watch or listen as Chef Bucco talks about:- Early cooking influences and how a culinary career path was developed- How to inspire, train and nurture a great kitchen team- The balance of leadership style and motivation for onboarding and training- Delivering true value to guests and never skimping on quality- Kitchen efficiencies and finding economies of scale- How to have the “big picture” to run multiple great kitchens and a commissary.- The challenges of maintaining margins amidst inflation and high labor cost - Knowing and monitoring critical numbers and key-performance indicators And of course, menu development, R & D and recognizing influential guestsDon’t miss this episode, then go out there and ROCK your Restaurant!RogerLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademyConnect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhhoAsk Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsPopmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The restaurant business is one of relationships. If we consider our team, our suppliers, and guest’s partners and friends instead of employees, vendors, and customers, we have a true formula for success.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Tom Krouse, the CEO of Donatos Pizza, a dynamic restaurant concept leading its segment with 460 stores. It’s not the number of locations that counts, but the relationships they foster and the value proposition they offer their guests through great people. It all starts from the top.Tom learned hospitality at an early age shining shoes in a golf clubhouse, worked his way up through the Wendy’s organization before taking a leap of faith with Donatos. Despite great stories and a lifetime of memories, he has only looked forward.Watch or listen as Tom talks about:-Early conversations with Dave Thomas, the Founder of Wendy’s-How to not only compete, but dominate in a most competitive food segment-Delivering true value to guests and never skimping on quality-The true meaning of leadership and importance of company culture-Having a marketing mindset for business success-Maintaining margins while maintaining consistency of product and experiences -Doing the right thing, setting an example for the industry, and giving backAnd of course, my favorites, Tom’s “one question to ask your employees”, and his words to live by: “Alignment”, “Plan” and “Execution”. You’ll have to listen all through the episode to find out what this can mean for your operation. Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and ROCK your Restaurant!Episode Page: https://bit.ly/E363RRPYouTube: https://youtu.be/CRx9A1xJldcRoger🌟 Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/🌟 Join The Restaurant Academy:Train your entire team to up level your business, maximize sales and optimize profits - Join the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy🌟 Connect with us on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-beaudoin-21590016Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restaurantrockstarsX: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1🌟 Subscribe to the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast:iTunes - https://apple.co/2WaKyqVSpotify - https://spoti.fi/3xGuOd0Google - https://bit.ly/2VM10P1Stitcher - https://bit.ly/3iFGAAbSoundcloud - https://bit.ly/3lYBhho🌟 Ask Roger a Question or Share a Restaurant story with us:https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstarsThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsPopmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsJtech: The “key” to restaurant communications with cutting edge tech for your customers and team. Now Get 10% off only at this link: https://www.jtech.com/rockstars
Restaurants are all about people coming together, celebrating good times & life events. Doing this well requires:•a strong company culture.•training your team in hospitality & consistency•providing a unique product offering•a winning brand strategy.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Collin Benyo, Franchise Growth Strategist for a dynamic restaurant concept called “The Melting Pot”. This iconic restaurant brand is hitting all the bases. They are 48 years young, and now remodeling their national locations plus adding new stores. The Melting Pot promises a unique interactive dining experience ideal for celebrating and making memories with family & friends. Watch or listen as Collin tells us about this restaurant brand including:🔥 How a strong restaurant culture delivers amazing guest service.🔥 Why their restaurants are the epicenter of celebration.🔥 What experiential dining is all about by offering interactive tableside cooking.🔥 The key to team onboarding and training for consistently great guest experiences🔥 How to build business with unique theme night promotions🔥 The benefits of creating a strong beverage and cocktail program to complement your cuisine.As well as the company’s core values of inclusion, diversity and giving back to a noble cause. I really love that The Melting Pot also up-levels their job descriptions to demonstrate that they really value their people. Rather than our standard industry terms, such as hosts, kitchen staff, and the dish pit, The Melting Pot instead uses: “Hospitality Specialists, “The Heart of House” and the “Dish Palace”. I love it! This episode has it all.Stay tuned to this episode, then go out there and ROCK your Restaurant!RogerShow Notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/362-restaurant-experience/Thank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsPopmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsJtech: The “key” to restaurant communications with cutting edge tech for your customers and team. Now Get 10% off only at this link: https://www.jtech.com/rockstars
As these challenging times continue, many of us are experiencing the dilemma of possible business failure. Even with the best of intentions, when things start to go sideways you need to know when and where is the point of no return!In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Kelly Meyer about business failure. Kelly is a former brewery founder/ operator, now author of the book “How Not to Start a Damn Brewery”. This episode is relevant to restaurants and hospitality businesses in general. It’s all about experiments, pivots, wins, fails, and mostly mistakes to avoid in your own operation.Listen as Kelly tells us about his business failure including:-Why passion for beer, wine and scotch led him to start a brewery.-His early startup lessons.-What worked until it didn’t?-The importance of hooks to differentiate your concept.-“Marketing for business 101”-The necessary skillsets and business acumen that give you every advantage.And of course, the years of lessons learned before deciding to pull the plug on his business.This episode is all about an operator’s best advice when starting or closing a hospitality business, including business failure. Watch or listen, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest:https://www.instagram.com/hownottostartadamnbreweryhttps://www.facebook.com/DamnBreweryhttps://www.twitter.com/DamnBreweryhttps://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/jMupprOYqBBuy the book: https://amzn.to/3RrcemNThank you to our sponsors: Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsXenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsJtech: The “key” to restaurant communications with cutting edge tech for your customers and team. Now Get 10% off only at this link: https://www.jtech.com/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
It’s one thing to run a restaurant, bar, or club and quite another to run a business and dominate the competition. It takes vision, strategy, hospitality, and a powerful company culture.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Keith Benjamin of Uptown Hospitality Group and Eat, Drink & Be Merry, a dynamic restaurant, bar, and nightlife company with locations in NYC, Charleston, and Chicago. Keith started his career in college creating big hospitality events, then did a stint in sports marketing only to find his true passion working his way to the top in the hospitality space.Watch or listen as Keith tells:-What it means to put it all on the line to invest in and grow a future in hospitality-How to authentically become the “IT” spots for customers to go to-The true meaning of Leadership-Inspiring and coaching your team while having a full bench of future leaders.-Doing the right thing, setting an example for the industry, and giving back-Knowing and relating to your customer to provide the most fun experiences.-Playing your best game, but always staying aware of the competition behind youAnd of course, how to instill “Intrapreneurship” within an entrepreneurial business.Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and ROCK your own Bar, Club or Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstarsPopmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsJtech: The “key” to restaurant communications with cutting edge tech for your customers and team. Now Get 10% off only at this link: https://www.jtech.com/rockstars
Marketing is super important for your operation, but few owners or leaders think about the power of restaurant PR. Maybe that’s because many operators think public relations is just not affordable, but my guest this week dispels that myth with a powerful restaurant PR strategy.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mickie Kennedy of eReleases. Mickie is a PR expert, press release ninja and media relations networker with an effective crash course in using restaurant PR to get your place on the map.
Watch or listen as Mickie dishes up:
• How to get media attention and restaurant PR for your company • A crash course in writing effective press releases. • The definition of your “Unique Selling Proposition (USP)” and how to get the most out it. • If it’s smart to ask your team-members or best customers for their input on your PR strategy • Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) or not when writing your release • The power of humor or in attracting the local media to cover your business.
And of course, the cost-effectiveness of working with Mickie and eReleases if you want to get the biggest bang for your PR buck!
Don’t miss this episode then check out www.eReleases.com for a free PR Masterclass and restaurant press release sample.
Now, go out there and ROCK your public relations and your Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://xenia.team/rockstars
Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Jtech: The key to restaurant communications is cutting edge tech for your customers and team. For more than 35 years, JTECH has been at the forefront of Restaurant Communications. Listeners get 10% off with our link: https://www.jtech.com/rockstars
Delivering true hospitality at the highest level takes strategy, detailed planning, an experienced and engaging team, and the ability to create trust and rapport. Throw in celebrities and a most discerning clientele and the expectation grows.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast we are focusing on high level hospitality and I’m speaking with Sofia Crokos. Sofia is the founder of Sofia Crokos Events and Lifestyle, as well as the co-founder of Elaia Estiatorio, a restaurant she operates with her husband and partner. Listen as Sofia shares:-Her humble beginnings, Greek traditions, and her passion for hospitality-How she got a toe into a very competitive industry and rose to the top-Passion, pride, 2,000 details and the relationships that lead to ultimate guest experiences.-Her philosophies on company culture, teamwork, respect, and recognition-The foundational elements to amazing events and dining experiences-How to keep cool when the unexpected happens and things go sideways.-The importance of knowing your critical numbers to maintain profits.And a story or two about celebrity weddings and events.This episode reminds us that “every detail and impression counts”, and that best practices lead to greatness. Watch or listen, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerShow Notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-358-hospitality/Connect with our guest:www.sofiacrokos.com www.elaiaestiatorio.com@elaia_hamptons @sofiacrokoseventsThank you to our sponsors: Popmenu: For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsXenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. https://www.xenia.team/rockstarsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/GoTab: The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. https://www.gotab.com/rockstars
There are those operators running a restaurant and those who are running a business and those are two very different approaches.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Dan DeLeon of Grumpy’s Restaurant Company, a full-service breakfast, lunch & brunch concept.
This winning franchise starting with a tired restaurant that had a good name but had changed hands a few times and needed a complete makeover.
Dan and his wife Morgan, who also happens to be V.P. of Operations took their prior experience, worked “On” the business, and now have the big picture outlook on steady future growth as they add new units to their company.
Watch or listen as Dan talks about:
- The importance of business acumen and prior restaurant experience to grow a concept.
- Having a vision for what could be and then methodically executing all the details.
- Going home everyday after 2 PM to family and not being “tied” to the operation
- Grumpy’s winning restaurant company culture and core values
- Knowing your customer and honoring their values and expectations
- How Grumpy’s maintains margins while keeping prices reasonable
- Keeping ticket times in line and maximizing table turns
- Their successful retail merchandise program as a “brand builder”
And of course, being family friendly and always “giving the people what they want”!
Don’t miss this episode then go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant!
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Xenia: Your operations base camp that scales standard procedures, trains your team, controls operations, and even manages food safety. Xenia is offering my listeners 20% off until Sept 7th. http://www.xenia.team/rockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
GoTab – The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. Request a DEMO: https://gotab.com/
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jeff Caldwell, V.P. of Operations for the Encore Boston Harbor Hotel.
Jeff is a hospitality veteran who cut his teeth at Wynn Resorts; the company known for transforming the rebirth of Las Vegas into the world-class destination it is today.
Listen as Jeff shares his passion for hospitality and Leadership including:
- The importance of mentorship and inspiring others to their best performance
- His career challenges and triumphs
- How passion, pride and relationships lead to amazing guest experiences.
- How to keep a close eye on the competition and then blow them away.
- A company culture of teamwork, respect, and recognition
- What it takes and how to prepare to become a leader in a hospitality organization
And of course, his inspirational mantra from an early mentor: “It’s not about right or wrong, it’s about guest satisfaction”!
This episode is all about the “right stuff” and best practices that lead to greatness in the hospitality biz!
Watch or listen, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Ask Roger a Question or share a story: https://www.speakpipe.com/RestaurantRockstars
Learn the Top 3 Profit Killers for Restaurants: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/
Thank you to our sponsors: Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
GoTab – The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. www.gotab.com/rockstars
I’ve always said, you can’t have too many “hooks” for your restaurant.
Anything interesting, unique, or powerful that catches the guest’s attention and leads to sales, reviews or buzz is free marketing!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Casey Biehl, VP of Ops for Fat Boys. This growing pizza chain is company owned with locations in Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Besides their unique hooks, much of Fat Boys success is due to company culture and leadership. They believe in building strong relationships across their pizza chain from team to guests to suppliers.
Watch or listen as Casey talks about:
- Growing from one successful location to two to nine across three states
- The importance of company culture vs. a mission statement
- Quality and guest satisfaction that come from making your products from scratch daily.
- How a food truck increases visibility and awareness for the brand
- Appealing menu items that are a draw alongside the pizza
- Adding a profitable alcohol and beer program
And of course, how this pizza chain is family friendly and “gives the people what they want”!
Don’t miss this episode, come up with some new unique “hooks” for your business then go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
GoTab – The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. Request a DEMO: www.gotab.com
Many of us have a dream to become a restaurateur. For some of us that dream was fulfilled with a restaurant concept or location. For others, that dream multiplied from one restaurant to several. And for some…that dream is an inspiration just waiting to be realized!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with chef and restaurateur Gregoire Jacquet. He is the founder of Gregoire, a passion project & “gourmet fast-casual” concept in the Bay area of San Francisco.
Listen as Gregoire tells us about his journey as a chef and restaurateur including:
- Growing up in France and how a passion for cooking led him to America.
- His early beginnings and learning the meaning of hospitality.
- The importance of building relationships with local quality suppliers
- How a failed cooking experiment led to his most popular dish that’s key to the success of his concept and franchise.
- The process to “trademark” and protect a unique signature menu item.
- Gregoire’s hiring, training, and onboarding approach.
- How he works “on” his business, so he no longer needs to work “In” it
And…his creative $10,000 incentive for referring a qualified operator to sign a Gregoire franchise agreement.
This episode is all about a restaurateur’s best practices that led to success.
Watch or listen, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
GoTab – The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. www.gotab.com/rockstars
If you really want to move the needle on your business, you need to run a business and not a restaurant. This means working “ON” your business now, not necessarily “In” it. It’s important to dedicate time each week to systemize your business so you run it and it doesn’t run you.
Beginning to understand your restaurant numbers and getting a feel for the cash that flows in and out each day is very important. You can make small shifts each week that will really boost your bottom line.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jonathan Rosa of Moura CFO. Jonathan grew up in a restaurant family, studied finance in business school and then went on to hone his knowledge and craft at Burger King Corporate HQ. His deep restaurant finance experience now helps operators like you dial in your restaurant finances, plan for the future, and find greater success.
Listen as Jonathan shares:
- How he works with clients as a “Fractional CFO”
- The small changes you can make day by day and week to week to transform your business and bank account.
- How to track cash flow and forecast for seasonality or slow downs
- The mistakes restaurant owners are making and what to do about it
- Why you should not be satisfied with strong sales numbers without digging deeper.
- The all-important cost controls in any restaurant
And a real-life client story of positive and simple change for greater success.
Watch or listen to this episode, work “ON” your business today and go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
GoTab – The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. www.gotab.com/rockstars
This is a high-risk business and the unexpected really could be around the next corner. You need to cover your business with proper restaurant insurance for what you know could happen as well as what you don’t know could happen.
There are so many types of coverage and so many questions, but thankfully today’s guest is a hospitality veteran and restaurant insurance expert.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with John Cassetta, Head of Restaurant Insurance Solutions for CoverWallet, a leading provider to the restaurant industry. John cut his teeth in restaurants and his sons are now following in his footsteps, so he understands your business.
Listen as John tells us about:
- The most common risks facing restaurants today.
- Restaurant insurance essential to your business regardless of size
- How he works with each client to evaluate their business insurance needs
- The importance of umbrella policies for added coverage and peace of mind.
- Cyberthreats... the how and why restaurants are being targeted.
- Business Interruption, Employer Practices & Product Liability coverage
And a real deep dive into serving alcohol and what Liquor Liability does and does not cover.
This episode is a crash course in restaurant insurance, so watch or listen, make sure you’re covered then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Connect with our guest: • www.coverwallet.com • CoverWallet Twitter: @CoverWallet • CoverWallet Facebook: @CoverWallet • CoverWallet LinkedIn: @CoverWallet, An Aon Company • CoverWallet Instagram: @coverwallet_ins
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jon Taffer, television personality behind the hit show “Bar Rescue”, industry leader, consultant, and multi-dimensional entrepreneur. Jon is a true industry guru in all things bars and restaurants with a lifetime of experience and so many key-learnings to share.
Don’t miss this episode as Jon Taffer shares:
- His hospitality roots and amazing career
- The biggest lessons he’s learned in life that he applies to the businesses he works with
- Big mistakes owners are making and what to do about it.
- The importance of foundational operating systems in any bar or restaurant
- True leadership versus that overused term management
- His thoughts on leadership and getting the most from your team.
- The guest value-proposition and raising prices.
And of course, a behind the scenes look at “Bar Rescue”, and the amazing business transformations Jon Taffer accomplishes together with his team. This episode is jam packed with nuggets that will get your gears turning and feet moving.
Watch or listen to this episode, get inspired and go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-351-bar-rescue-jon-taffer/ Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
GoTab – The GoTab platform empowers you the operator to run a leaner and more profitable business. Request a DEMO: https://gotab.com/rockstars
I’m obsessed with restaurant finances, marketing and hospitality and you should be as well. As a forward-thinking operator, you can learn new things each day that move the needle and immediately work to put them into practice in your restaurant.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Russ Spencer, a true industry professional, a guru of restaurant finances and an old friend whose Senior Director of Restaurant Success for “Craftable”. Russ has decades of restaurant experience and a selfless dedication to help improve individual operator’s businesses.
Listen as Russ shares:
- Restaurant Profits today vs. pre-pandemic
- The critical restaurant financial systems you need in your operation.
- Big mistakes restaurant owners are making and what to do about it
- The importance of inventory, food cost and all-important profit contribution
- The why and how of menu engineering
- His thoughts on leadership and getting the most from your team.
- The guest value-proposition and raising prices.
This episode is jam packed with golden nuggets and key-learnings about restaurant finances that will get your gears turning and your feet moving.
Watch or listen to this episode, get inspired and go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-350-killer-advice-on-restaurant-finances/
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
We all have a restaurant startup story. Maybe, you had great recipes, or possibly you just saw a couldn’t turn up opportunity.
Many of you had prior experience, but some, like me, and my guests today had virtually no restaurant experience at all before startup.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Dan Londono and Dan Sobsey, co-founders of “Alfalfa”. Alfalfa’s restaurant startup success began at a local farmer’s market and now they’ve grown bi-coastal.
Listen as Dan & Dan share:
- The brainchild and vision for “Alfalfa”
- Why salad and donuts make a successful menu.
- Their philosophy of “joy through balance”, and what this means to their team and their business model.
- How the pandemic led to growing in California after their initial restaurant startup in New Jersey.
- The key attributes they look for in new hires plus onboarding best practices.
- Alfalfa’s company culture that is embraced by staff and guests alike.
- Starting a successful catering program with pizzaz!
And of course, the importance of local presence and giving back to the communities they serve.
Watch or listen to this episode, have a vision for moving your business forward and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
Management is the old way of running your business. Leadership and delivering hospitality excellence is the way forward.
During this time of labor challenges, shifting this approach will not only attract and retain great people, but uplevel your guest service and satisfaction.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Tina Hewett-Gordon, a 31-year leader at the Nonantum Resort on the coast of Maine. Tina’s style of recognizing talent, empowering her team, and dazzling guests is an inspiration to our industry demonstrating how run a truly great hospitality organization.
The Nonantum has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Maine, while Tina has won numerous awards for service including the “State of Maine Governor’s Award for Excellence in Tourism”.
Don’t miss this episode as Tina shares:
- Being recognized and promoted to lead 3 decades ago.
- How to recognize talent, lower turnover and deliver the best to the guest each day
- What great new hires bring to the table.
- Her successful team “onboarding & training” philosophies
- Recognition & Rewards that inspire and motivate staff.
- A typical day in the life of a hospitality leader
- The importance of a strong company culture
And of course, Tina’s service and advocacy to our industry at large.
Watch or listen to this episode and then go out there, empower your team and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Many details create a successful growing business, but most important will always be your people. It’s one thing to be a manager, but quite another to be a true leader.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Joe Kahn and Chris Artinian of Condado Tacos. The key to their success in growing to locations in 9 states and beyond is their company culture and how they lead. This company continues to recognize talent in their people, giving them rare opportunities to also become leaders that drive this brand forward.
Besides atmosphere and a highly successful concept based on Tacos, Tequila & Margaritas, listen as Chris and Joe share:
- Condado Taco’s powerful vision that never deviates from the core mission.
- The importance of an inclusive “come as you are” company culture.
- Why sourcing only, the freshest ingredients bring guests back again and again.
- Past and present challenges and the future of their operation
- The efficiencies and consistency of a common commissary kitchen
- Condado Taco’s winning marketing and loyalty strategy
- What’s on the menu including margaritas, and craft cocktails.
And of course, best practices from running a single store to growth in multiple states.
Watch or listen and then go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smokenfast/
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Restaurant Marketing is so important, but few operators are also expert marketers. What most operators tend to do is experiment by trying this and trying that, hoping for the best.
The problem is that most restaurant marketing is not trackable, so you don’t really know if it’s working.
Worry not!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I’m speaking with Restaurant Marketing expert Carolyn Walker, the CEO of The Response Agency.
Carolyn has 20 years of experience working for some of the largest restaurant companies, as well as on the brands of billion-dollar corporations.
Listen and learn as Carolyn shares with us:
- How to be a champion of bold ideas
- Key learnings from her experience with Darden Restaurant Group
- Why restaurant marketing is not the “savior” but the “amplifier”
- A crash course in “brand building”
- The difference between “positioning” and a “unique sales proposition”
- What “performance marketing” is all about
- If your operation should start with a strong brand first or use a retail merchandising program to build the brand
- If and when it’s time to “re-brand” a concept
And of course, Carolyn’s key-learnings gleaned from driving the marketing of some of world’s biggest brands.
Watch or listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link: https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrs
The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
We all bring passion and talents to this business and sometimes those talents become our competitive advantage. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Kevin Cimini, the owner and designer of Gair, a new restaurant startup in the Dumbo neighborhood of Brooklyn. Kevin masterfully applied his architecture and design background to create a dynamic space using historic building elements, accentuated with modern touches. Besides atmosphere, the Food and Service must stand up to the appeal of the space. All three are equally important elements to the magic formula of a successful concept. As this is a new restaurant startup story, listen on as Kevin tells his approach to creating not only the design, but all-important operational framework:We’ll hear about:-Kevin’s brainchild for creating Gair-How he applied design and architecture expertise to re-create a historic building space-A restaurant startup journey from idea to inspiration to execution-Past and present challenges we have all faced-The Gair Company Culture and team philosophy-What’s on the menu… food & cocktail pairings-Curating a beer, wine and spirits list-Marketing that’s workingAnd of course, Kevin walks us through the space bringing to life the sights, sounds and smells of Gair.Watch or listen and then go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smokenfast/VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link:https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
You might be thinking it’s time to sell your restaurant. Whether you wish to retire, start another business, have more time for family or you’re just done, this is your episode.This week on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Robin Gagnon, the Co-Founder & CEO of “We Sell Restaurants”. With tremendous industry knowledge and an amazing track record of successful sales, Robin shares with us what you need to know and do before you sell your restaurant.Listen or watch as Robin shares:-The state of the market – is this a good time to sell your restaurant?-A step-by-step process to follow to the closing table.-How to prepare your concept for sale whether you lease or own the property-What buyers want to know.-The due diligence process and what buyers will ask. -How turn-key operating systems in your business increases its value.-Valuation methods and a rough guide to pricing and selling your restaurant.-A typical sale timeline right to the finish lineAnd so much more. This episode is a walk-through to get your “house in order” so you are ready when it is time to sell your restaurant.Watch or listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors: VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link:https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
We all seek restaurant success but during these challenging times, you might be thinking “Is it all worth it” and “If we can’t be successful and happy with our business why do it”?Perhaps the answer is to true restaurant success is rekindling the passion for why you got into this business; but moreover, creating a special culture and leadership style that moves your business forward. “Leaders recognizing people that come together to improve guest experiences and their own personal work opportunities” is one example of a great culture. To do this takes a different leadership approach and commitment to your team.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Antonio McBroom, the CEO of Primo Partners. Primo is a leading franchisor of two of the hottest “best of brands” in their categories (Ben & Jerry’s & Starbucks). There are powerful leadership lessons here for your own restaurant success, whether independent or franchise that you can apply today to your operation.I am particularly inspired by Antonio and Primo’s approach of providing opportunities to those they work with, as well as the underserved within the communities they operate. Their philosophy is paying strong dividends toward company culture and individual franchise success.Listen on as Antonio shares:-How he started his career in college within a Ben & Jerry’s store and then went on to become their “Operator of the Year” and largest franchisor-His winning leadership style, business strategy and mindset-How to develop, mentor, motivate and lead your team to greatness-The difference between a Mission Statement and true Company Culture-Retention programs to keep your great people during this labor challenge.-The importance of community service to your business and those you serve. -Helping aspiring entrepreneurs find their own hospitality and restaurant success.And his best advice for you the operator looking to grow your business or open multiple locations.Antonio and Primo Partners are working on adding their 3rd “best in class” franchise brand to their fold. I’m betting the leadership lessons shared in this episode will ensure their continued hospitality and restaurant success.Last, I will always remember to continue practicing Antonio’s MEDS acronym which stands for “meditation, exercise, diet and sleep”. Another best practice to keep you and your team on top of your game.Watch or listen and then go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smokenfast/VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link:https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
We all define hospitality in our own way, and it’s a foundational element in your business. Ensure that your staff is trained on what hospitality means and more importantly how it affects your guest’s experience. In this week’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Alfio Celia, VP of Food & Beverage for Crescent Restaurant Group, a division of Crescent Hotels and Resorts. Crescent is a nationally known operator of over 100 properties in the US and Canada. Listen or watch as Alfio shares:-How hospitality starts with the guest and how they feel-How to exceed guest expectations post pandemic-Crescent’s approach to onboarding, training, and recognizing staff.-Developing and fostering a company culture versus a mission statement-How to up-level guest service and hospitality experiences everyday-Effective marketing strategies and how to maximize restaurant profits.Alfio is a proven industry veteran sharing many key hospitality nuggets that can benefit your operation. Watch or listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link:https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Most of us started with a dream and an idea for a great restaurant concept. It’s always so interesting to me to see how restaurant concepts evolve and grow. While some operators are happy with one store, others have the vision to expand and grow their portfolio. This may mean multiple locations and/or multiple restaurant concepts.This week on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Austin Capoferi, the President of Franchising and Development for “Beef-A-Roo”, a 56-year-old brand known for its wild west restaurant concept and homestyle family values. They are here to share some real out of the “box” thinking!Listen or watch as Austin explains:-How the Beef-A-Roo restaurant concept comes turn-key in a shipping container with low investment and low overhead-How to overcome the labor challenge with half the staff needed of a regular restaurant-Why your restaurant concept needs multiple revenue streams and what these are-Beef-A-Roo’s “exceptional service” training model-Their proven guest loyalty program-How to maintain quality and consistency as your brand growsAnd of course, we discuss how they are dealing with today’s pressing labor, supply, and inflation issues.Watch or listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors VERGE Funding Group: Set up your personal meeting with Karen to see how much money your business may qualify to get back at this link:https://calendly.com/vergefundinggroup/erc-qualifying-call-rrsThe Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smokenfast/
This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is all about what it takes to maximize restaurant profit, to build your “dream team” staff, and to create a powerful brand and a legacy business. You’ll hear immediately actionable ideas to improve your sales, uplevel processes, boost team morale and ROCK YOUR RESTAURANT. There are so many nuggets and key-takeaways you can use in your own operation. You will learn systems to not just maximize restaurant profits optimize your entire business.Listen or watch as I share with you:-How to maximize restaurant profits.-The difference between running a restaurant and running a business.-The difference between leadership and management. -The difference between empowerment and delegation.-The difference between hiring and recruiting.-How to keep employees happy & loyal.-Ideas for recognizing and rewarding your team for great performance.-Hidden sales opportunities that untrained order takers miss.-How giving choices can double your sales.-The importance of costing out every item on your menu to maximize restaurant profit.-How to decide which day(s), if any, you should close if business is slow.It’s all in this episode and so much more. This episode is all about maximizing restaurant profits so you can have the time and money to: -Spend more time away from your restaurant if you choose.-Expand your business or build another business.-Spend more time with friends & family. -Just do more of what you love to do.Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with us! www.restaurantrockstars.com•Instagram: @restaurantrockstars •Facebook: @restaurantrockstars•Twitter: @RestaurantRock1•TikTok: @restaurantrockstars (yes, we are finally on TikTok…wish us luck!)The Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
We are all trying to stay ahead of the trends, maintain a loyal staff and effectively handle problem customers. How you manage your staff plays a huge role in their happiness, their longevity, and their loyalty to your business. Having an amazing and extensive team at your fingertips is a critical factor in your restaurant’s success.Your team can also help you identify and anticipate trends, especially if they are the same demographic as your customer!What your team may not love to do is deal with problem customers.While some problem customers are easily appeased, others have been known to make a spectacle in front of fellow guests. It’s a best practice to prepare your team in advance for how to handle problem customers. The goal is to handle them before they disrupt your business.In today’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Adam Evans of Bar Almighty. He is a long-time bar owner, entertainment promoter and restaurant GM. Adam has written a new book aptly named “The Customer is NOT Always Right”!Listen or watch as Adam shares:-What qualities and skillsets make an excellent restaurant GM-Effective staff training techniques and the importance of salesmanship-How one problem customer can affect your team’s morale and service to other guests-Effective bar management-How to recognize alcoholic beverage trends and maximize profit.-Simple precautions and training staff to control a difficult situation.Adams books: “The Customer is Not Always Right” & “Hospitality Horror Stories” are sure to entertain and give you a plan to deal with any problem customer.Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThe Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors: Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldThe Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
This episode is all about what it takes to run a great restaurant kitchen and a chef's journey to success! There are so many nuggets and key-takeaways you can use in your own operation.In today’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Chef Grace Goudie of Scratchboard Kitchen in the suburbs of Chicagoland. Listen or watch as Chef tells us:-How aspiring chefs can take their knowledge and ambition to set themselves apart, uplevel their skills and rise to the top of a great restaurant kitchen.-The importance of learning both financial and culinary skills to maximize your value to any restaurant.-The way to build a loyal clientele and repeat business.-The evening out of food cost during inflation using farm fresh ingredients and local suppliers vs. commodity suppliers.-Leadership style, mentoring and onboarding your team.-Her experience appearing on the Food Network’s “Chopped”.-Why everyone at Thomas Keller’s “Ad Hoc” and “The French Laundry” start at the bottom regardless of skillset and experience.-The importance and profitability of curating a beverage program that compliments and pairs with the menu.-How ambiance, service and food come together to deliver exceptional guest experiences.It’s all here as Chef shares her best advice on running a great restaurant and a great restaurant kitchen.Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThe Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors: The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstarsWhirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
I coach my clients all the time to stop running a restaurant and start running a business. You can either have a restaurant strategy or keep putting out daily fires. Having a strategy is pro-active and moves your business forward. In this week’s episode of the podcast, I am speaking with restaurant strategy experts Carl Orsbourn and Meredith Sandland. Listen as Carl and Meredith coach us on:-What many operators are missing in their restaurant strategy-A new approach to your business post-pandemic-Building on pivots restaurants have had to execute.-Being a pro-active strategist not a firefighter-Necessary technology for your restaurant today-The ins and outs of third-party delivery-Is a ghost kitchen right for your operation?And of course, we speak about Carl and Meredith’s second Book “Delivering the Digital Restaurant, The Path to Digital Maturity”. This book gives you the how-to roadmap to execute a digital restaurant strategy in your operation.Listen, get inspired and then go out and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThe Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors:Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield Zinch - Listeners of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast receive their loan application fees waived, a $250 value at financingthatworks.com Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
In this business of 1000 details, your primary focus is on pleasing your guests and putting out great food & drink. Some of the other necessary admin type tasks, like restaurant tip reporting, can be unpleasant and overlooked! Let’s talk about restaurant tip reporting and compliance. It’s hard to keep everything fair and everyone happy while staying on the right side of the IRS. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Leif Magnussen of TipHaus, a platform that automates the entire restaurant tip reporting process.Listen as Leif explains:-What’s most important as an operator post-pandemic.-How the TipHaus platform saves restaurants time, labor cost and money-The way this platform adapts to any restaurant tip situation and fairly distributes gratuities for each job class.-How staff can track their tips daily and have them auto deposited to their bank-Never again overpaying employees who forget to clock-out.-The reasonable monthly fee with no contract obligationLeif also shares how to get up and running. Get a free trial at www.tiphaus.com and take restaurant tip reporting off your plate.Watch or listen to this episode, then go ROCK Your Restaurant by putting systems in place so that you can work smarter, not harder!The Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors:The Birthday Club – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://jointhebirthdayclub.com/BirthdayRockstar/Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
There is a magic formula to running a great restaurant. For some this comes easy, for others it’s elusive.What makes a truly great restaurant – one with long-time staff, great food & vibe, and most importantly happy repeat guests?Well, find out in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. I’m speaking with Michelle Corry who has a true passion for great restaurants. She cut her teeth under a master at “The French Laundry”, one of the world’s most illustrious. Michelle along with her husband, chef & partner has taken that critical foundation, her own talents and inspiration to create two truly great restaurants in one of the country’s biggest and most competitive “foodie” towns, Petite Jacqueline & 555 North.Listen as Michelle shares:-Key-learnings under world renowned restaurateur Thomas Keller-Establishing a new foothold amongst well-established restaurants-How her grandmother and travels to France inspired her bistrot-The difficult decision to close her long-time first restaurant and then re-imagining it many years later.-Working effectively with a spouse and outside partner-Effective staff training in wine and menu knowledgeAnd of course, all the challenges and pain points of running a great restaurant today.Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out and ROCK your Restaurant!RogerEPISODE SHOW NOTES - https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-335-running-great-restaurants/The Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Learn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits/Thank you to our sponsors: Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-creditSmithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldPopmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
We all know that being a restaurateur can be greatly fulfilling, but also incredibly challenging. During these times, running restaurants can certainly take their toll, but after 40 years, this passionate restaurateur keeps forging ahead working three meals a day! In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with restaurateur Mani Bhushan of Taco Ocho in Dallas. At 70+ he is still running circles around the competition!After building a long successful career with a famous national chain, much later in life, he decided to open his own restaurant and then grow it to four locations. Interestingly, Mani’s of Indian descent but his restaurants are Mexican concepts. Why? You’ll have to tune it to find out.Listen as Mani tells us:-The importance of treating every guest like an old friend-Why refusing to compromise on quality and authenticity matters.-Inspiration and key start-up lessons he learned.-What keeps his customers coming back for more?-How to continue offering value for money during inflationary times-The magic formula and secret to restaurant success-Unique catering ideasAnd of course, this veteran restaurateur also shares his best advice to others wanting to start a restaurant!Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out and ROCK your Restaurant!RogerLearn the Top 3 Restaurant Profit Killers and how to fix them - the answers might surprise you! (FREE) bit.ly/3profitkillersThe Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Thank you to our sponsors: Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-creditZinch - Listeners of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast receive their loan application fees waived, a $250 value at http://financingthatworks.com/FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Everyone has a restaurant concept. Maybe your concept rocks, or maybe it could use a refresh and/or pivot!In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Travis Talbot, a global restaurant concept developer, hospitality impresario, cookbook author & restaurant coach.Travis has developed over 500 concepts for resorts, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.Don’t miss this episode as Travis shares:👉 The “key ingredients” of a winning restaurant concept👉 His appearance on Robert Irvine’s hit show “Restaurant Impossible”👉 What being an “eccentric restaurant coach” means👉 The seismic shift our industry is going through and what that means to your operation.👉 Hospitality experiments, crazy misadventures and blockbuster “fails”👉 The Return on Investment from “kindness and community”And Travis’ best advice about what’s happening now and what’s ahead in our industry.Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThe Restaurant Academy - Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing, and build new & repeat business! https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Thank you to our Sponsors!🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield
This country has gone crazy about breweries, and a strong beer program is highly profitable for every restaurant! Whether you love and serve beer or not, it’s important to put yourself in your guest’s shoes to find out what they experience in your operation.We’ve all heard of secret shoppers who come in and evaluate a restaurant’s ambiance, service and food and drink quality, but have you heard of “Secret Hopper”?In this week’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Andrew Coplon, the founder of secret shopping for breweries. Secret Hopper hires beer crazy folks across the country to go into breweries and restaurants serving craft beer to help them optimize their operations, elevate guest service, and increase profits.Listen as Andrew shares:-His evolution from home brewer to hospitality founder-How to succeed even when you lack basic business skills and experience. -His passion for true hospitality-What makes for great guest service for restaurants and breweries-The importance of engagement and education for all customer facing industries-How “Secret Hopper” works and what “Hoppers” do for your business.And Andrew’s best advice to beer lovers who have always wanted to start their own brewery!Listen to this episode and then ROCK Your Restaurant!The Restaurant Academy - Everything you and your FOH + BOH staff need to know to completely uplevel your entire organization. Tools to increase sales, maximize profits, rock your marketing and build new & repeat business! Super Affordable! Join Now - https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/Thank you to our Sponsors:🌟Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
If your operation sells alcohol, you know that hour by hour bar business and profit often far exceeds that of food. But it’s not just about bar profit. You want your bar menu to offer your guests the same excitement as your food menu.I was traveling to Seattle a few weeks back and met a master mixologist who absolutely captured his guest’s attention with his curated and custom crafted cocktails. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Andy Rodriguez who has a true passion for sharing his knowledge of all thing’s spirits, bar business and the fine points of mixology.Listen as Andy shares:-The benefits and “how to” of creating a specialty cocktail list for your bar business.-Great ideas and training available on YouTube.-How pairing beverages with food selections adds bar profit.-Cocktails that are trending now-Simple cocktail infusions and steeping-Delivering flair and showmanship behind the barIf you’re interested in jazzing up your bar business with specialty cocktails and flair, Andy can help you. His contact info can be found in the show notes to this episode: bit.ly/E331RRP Take a listen and then go out and ROCK your Restaurant + Bar!RogerThank you to our sponsors: Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-creditSmithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfieldZinch - Listeners of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast receive their loan application fees waived, a $250 value at financingthatworks.com Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
What’s the magic formula to succeeding in the restaurant business? It’s Food, Service, Ambiance and Brand Building! You’ll find it all if you tune-in.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Andrew Pudalov, the CEO of Rush Bowls. Following 9/11, Andrew successfully pivoted from a high-flying finance career to the restaurant business. He’s going to tell us:-The brainchild for his fast, delicious and nutritious concept-All about the entrepreneurial process and timeline to launch and build this brand-His biggest mistakes, challenges, successes and experiments-How mentoring business and financial skills to young employees is paying off-Leadership style and sharing the passion for hospitality -The necessary systems to grow to multiples stores and franchise-How to over-deliver on the “guest experience”And of course, overcoming today’s pain points and strategy moving forward.Watch or listen to this episode then go out and ROCK your Restaurant!RogerThank You To Our Sponsors:The Restaurant Academy: Everything you need to know to optimize profits and maximize sales https://restaurantrockstars.com/joinacademy/FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
Arguably, starting a new restaurant concept is one of the hardest things you can do! This is one of the most competitive of all industries, and the details to not only start but successfully run a new operation are endless. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chef Brandon Buck of a new restaurant concept called “Crush Yard”. We’ve all heard the term “eater-tainment”, and this concept fits the bill!Listen as Chef Brandon tells us:-Where he developed his passion for cooking and early influences-What makes this restaurant concept so different and appealing-The opening strategy and logistics of starting such a large restaurant concept-Curating a new menu for variety, guest appeal and most of all profit-The challenges expected ahead and how they plan to overcome obstacles-How Crush Yard plans to overcome the labor crisis and rising costs-Why “self-pour” beer, wine and drinks is a smart business decision-Crush Yard’s plan for onboarding and training team members And the thousand other details it takes to launch a new restaurant concept!Listen to Chef Brandon, get inspired, and then go out and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerEpisode + Show Notes - bit.ly/E329RRPThank you to our sponsors: Zinch - Listeners of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast receive their loan application fees waived, a $250 value at www.financingthatworks.com Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-creditSmithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/smithfield
Many of us had a dream to start a restaurant. How many of you started your restaurant with just a dream and no experience? How many of you want to start but don’t know where to start? This is your episode?In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jonathan Weathington, the CEO of Shuckin Shack, a super cool Oyster and Bar concept. Childhood friends had an idea to start a restaurant with the goal of “just staying open”! Sure, there were mistakes and experiments along the way, but now that that place has grown to 19 restaurants, and they are still opening more.Listen as Jonathan tells us:👉 Why his founder friends made him the CEO👉 The moves he’s making to grow this brand and concept👉 How company culture and the Vibe of Shuckin Shack are one and the same 👉 Why you should put your guest hat on when you walk through your door👉 How innovation and creative ideas not only benefit community causes but are also powerful marketing👉 The emphasis on service and how onboarding and training create guest loyalty👉 It’s as simple as “treat people right and they’ll come back”!Jonathan shares his best advice on how to run a successful restaurant, what they are looking for in potential partners and more.Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
There is a magic formula to true restaurant success, and it’s all in this episode. Settle in, take notes, execute and then watch your guest counts rise and your cash register ring!In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Scott SirLouis of FSC Franchise Co. He is a veteran operator, franchise team builder and all-around restaurant guy.Don’t miss Scott telling us:👉 What a true passion and a feeling of hospitality inspire your team forward 👉 The importance of understanding and diligently tracking your financial controls and key performance indicators👉 Understanding and feeling what the guest experiences in each location👉 How your leadership approach impacts the guest experience👉 What it takes to innovate, stand apart and win big over the competition👉 Why future economic conditions require your operation to capture increased market share👉 How your operating culture is the key to restaurant successFollow Scott’s best advice then go out and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
There are a lot of restaurant concepts out there. To build a strong growing brand, you need to create something that catches the public’s attention!When selecting a place to dine, there are many times when we just feel like trying many options. We graze on this, and we try that. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Brady Lee, the President of Graze Craze. Brady is building a restaurant concept based on grazing and current trends with food boards.Listen as Brady shares:👉 The brainchild of this restaurant concept and evolution of the franchise’s growth 👉 Why “grazing” is trending now, but will stay relevant👉 How “Grazologists” curate unique charcuterie boards and picnic baskets👉 The profitability and benefits of catering (house parties, work events, group picnics) to this restaurant concept👉 Building a base of commercial customer accounts👉 Why more customers appreciate eco-friendly packaging 👉 The labor crisis, training philosophies and building team loyaltyAnd much more…. Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerThank you to our sponsors: 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
If your entire team understands and practices authentic restaurant hospitality, you have a competitive advantage and happy returning guests.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I am speaking with Steve Turk, Founder and CEO of Turk Hospitality Ventures which specializes in executing stand-out food & beverage programs in restaurants and hotels. Don’t miss this episode as Steve and I discuss:👉Guest expectations today following the pandemic👉 How to provide true restaurant hospitality amid the labor challenge👉 Leadership style that motivates and inspires a team to greatness👉 The future of restaurant hospitality and why it’s important👉 Necessary technology for efficiency and guest satisfaction👉 The difference between mission and culture👉 And Steve’s best social media advice as an influencer to leading restaurants and hotels.Don’t miss this episode then go out and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerShow Notes - bit.ly/E325RRPThank you to our sponsors: 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Whether you have a single restaurant or multiple restaurant concepts in the great cities around the world, we all share a vision and a passion for hospitality. Pleasing guests and running a great business are of course the driving forces behind everything we do each and every day.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with John Meadow, Founder and President of LDV Hospitality who is truly building a global restaurant empire one concept at a time.Listen as John tells us:👉 The challenges of starting his first restaurant and then growing a restaurant empire of multiple concepts in many cities👉 Experiments, fails, big victories and key-learnings👉 A typical day leading his company forward👉 Leadership style vs. management👉 Necessary systems, technology, and financial controls👉 The labor crisis, training philosophies and building team loyalty👉 How to maintain overall consistency across many restaurantsAnd much more…. In Italian, La Dolce Vita translates to the “Good Life” and thus the namesake of LDV Hospitality. John and his team are delivering the good life to guests and staff alike and we can all be inspired by their company culture. Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!Show Notes: bit.ly/E324RRPRogerThank you to our sponsors: 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Restaurant kitchens are the “heart” of our house and our people, recipes, food quality and presentations are our lifeblood. These determine our guest satisfaction, online reviews, a ringing cash register and repeat business.It’s a magic formula and delicate balance that’s hard to master, but always worth improving. To build your own strong restaurant kitchen, you might want to take notes as our guest this week is a seasoned and passionate kitchen professional.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I’m speaking with Chef Mike Harvey of Jalisco Taqueria and Queen Street Hospitality Group.Listen as Mike shares:👉 The magic dust of a strong restaurant kitchen and team👉 How to inspire, motivate and get the most from your staff👉 The importance of recognizing inside talent and mentoring them to rise to the challenge👉 Paring down menus for efficiency and profit👉 How they handle rising costs, labor challenges and other pain points👉 The importance of travel and visiting other restaurants for inspiration and new ideas👉 Critical systems and technologyAnd of course, the nuts and bolts of creating your own strong restaurant kitchen. The New Year is coming, time to put your house in order!Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!RogerConnect with our guest www.queenstreethospitality.com www.jalisco-chs.comFacebook: @JaliscoCHSInstagram: @jalisco_chsThank you to our sponsors 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
What other restaurant franchise is still successful after 100 years? Fifty years ago, my family would drive in, the car hop would attach a tray to our car window and then bring the frosty cold mug of Root Beer, the Cheeseburgers and the ice cream sundaes…. I can still taste that experience and feel it today.It’s nostalgic and all-American!In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with John Palumbo, Sr. Director of Restaurant Franchise Development for the famous A & W chain.Listen or watch as John talks about:-The history and secret to 100 years of success-What has changed and stayed the same over 10 decades of business-Rising costs, the labor crisis, supply chain challenges and other pain points-The R & D process for new menu items-Critical systems for operator success-Loyalty and Marketing that worksAnd of the course, the A & W Restaurant Franchise opportunity at www.awrestaurants.comWatch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!https://bit.ly/E322RRPRogerThank you to our sponsors 🌟SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/🌟Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Nothing you do today is more important! This episode may be the last Hail Mary you receive from the government due to Covid 19.In case you haven’t heard, your restaurant can claim lots of money without paying it back. This is money you’ve already paid in payroll taxes, and the IRS will pay it back to you.In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mike Schaeffer of Whirks, an accounting firm specializing in payroll taxes and the ERTCListen as Mike explains:•What the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is - a newly expanded refundable tax credit given to employers who are keeping their employees on payroll despite COVID-19 related challenges and losses.•How Much your business can qualify for•How to qualify•When you will receive your money•How to get a no obligation consult for your businessThere’s No catch and it’s Not too good to be true, but you must act quickly as the sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll get your money.Contact Whirks at this link: https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit. I personally worked with their team, and they got my restaurant a nice sum of cash from the payroll taxes I paid. They were professional and super easy to work with. Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!https://bit.ly/E321RRPRogerThank you to our sponsors: 🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
When I owned multiple concepts, I was obsessed with my Restaurant Profit. Now I work with other operators....and I am obsessed with their restaurant profit!
With rising costs beyond your control, there is nothing as important as having a feel for your restaurant’s critical numbers, your restaurant profit or where you might be losing money.
Listen as I tell you:
- The difference between running a restaurant and running a business!
- How knowing your menu item plate cost impacts your financial bottom line
- Why taking Inventory does not mean figuring out your weekly order
- How to set up a simple Inventory system
- Prime Cost and how to make these simple calculations
- How to figure out your Daily Break-Even and which day(s) make the most sense to close
- The benefits of Incentivizing your key-people
And importantly, how to pay for high food and labor costs in your business.
This is a big episode with actionable information and ideas to help you maximize your restaurant profit.
Watch or Listen, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! bit.ly/E320RRP Roger
Thank you to our sponsors
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
To stay ahead of your competition and succeed during this restaurant labor crisis, you must keep both your staff and guests happy. Times have changed and the way we manage our team has changed. Today, it’s more essential than ever to create a company culture that’s inspiring, inclusive, and rewarding. Achieve staff loyalty and guest loyalty and positive online reviews will follow.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chuck Kline of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. To grow to 71 concepts and locations, this group had to solve their own restaurant labor crisis and effect a different approach to leading and growing their team. Their approach is now their advantage.
Listen as Chuck tell us:
👉 The importance of creating a powerful and inspiring company culture 👉 The results of leading and empowerment vs the old way of managing and delegating 👉 How 80% of their leadership team were mentored first as hourly associates 👉 Effective staff onboarding, training, recognition & rewards 👉 Maintaining margins with rising costs
Watch or Listen to this episode. I believe this group’s approach to the restaurant labor crisis could be a solution to your own!
Now Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
Show Notes - https://bit.ly/E319RRP
Thank you to our Sponsors!
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Here’s a Fact… You can’t have too many Profit Centers in your operation!
Most operators think they sell food & drinks. Instead, we should be selling experiences both inside and outside our restaurant. One of the biggest needle movers to increased sales and profit is restaurant catering.
You already have satisfied guests that love your food. Where these customers work and recreate is an opportunity. Your community has business, sporting and other events just looking for great tasting food and convenience. Why not capture these opportunities, increase awareness for your restaurant and build goodwill at the same time? This is a ready and waiting opportunity for you to start catering.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Michael Attias, the CEO of Caterzen.
Listen as Michael explains:
👉 How to start catering in your operation 👉 The types of cuisines and the ideal foods for catering 👉 Establishing and finding regular catering clients 👉 The importance of building, maintaining and marketing to your restaurant database 👉 Catering production and efficiency tracking for staff, product and procedure
Caterzen offers a turn-key catering solution to start today. Check out their free demo and trial at www.caterzen.com
Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
No one could have anticipated the business risk that was the Covid pandemic.
As a restaurant owner at the time, my first thought was that it would be a temporary inconvenience! Never did I expect we would be forced to shut down, remove all our dining seats to become a market, and then pivot at least 3 more times.
I also thought our restaurant insurance had the business protected.
The point is, business risk is always around the next corner, ready to catch us by surprise when we’re busy taking care of business.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Clay Ogden of Strategic Risk Alternatives, a risk management expert who helps us understand restaurant insurance and potential pitfalls to your coverage.
Listen as Clay wisely advises:
👉 Why a business restaurant insurance risk management plan is essential for your operation 👉 The types of risk we may not be thinking about until it’s too late 👉 How you can protect your business from these unforeseen business risks 👉 About restaurant insurance company loopholes that may prevent your claim from being paid 👉 The difference between “direct” and “indirect” losses 👉 What is an 831b plan, how it relates to your current restaurant insurance, and how your business can tax defer for tomorrow’s risk
Working smarter not harder is what avoiding business risk is all about. Your restaurant insurance should provide all the coverage you need.
Listen to this episode, take a moment to plan for the future and then go out and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Show Notes - https://bit.ly/E317RRP
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors
🌟 Whirks - We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
For all the love we put into our business and the joy we provide our guests, unfortunately, one of the downsides is food waste. This bothered me when I owned restaurants, and with the widespread hunger in our country, it still does.
Imagine if every restaurant, yours included could be part of the solution and not the problem!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jack Rasmussen an inspired guy with a solution to the restaurant food waste crisis. Besides being a business scholar, entrepreneur and author, Jack Rasmussen has made it a mission to feed the homeless. Restaurants are at the very heart of the answer.
Listen as Jack tells us:
👉 How he co-founded “Good Samaritans”, a Los Angeles non-profit that feeds the homeless 👉 His brainchild for “FoodMate” which collects un-used food from restaurants and distributes via food truck to people in need on the streets 👉 How your operation can minimize food waste by working with local foodbanks and get tax credit for donations 👉 Board of Health regulations concerning food waste and donations
And we talk about Jack’s new book “Fine Dining, The Secrets Behind the Restaurant Industry”, his distance learning platform “Screen 360TV” that raises cultural awareness for kids, teaching English in Taiwan and MORE!
This guy does it all!
Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 Whirks: We will help you determine your eligibility for The Employee Retention Tax Credit for 2020 & 2021 https://page.whirks.com/employee-retention-credit
🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables, and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Everyone in hospitality has been hit hard by the labor crisis. It continues to affect morale, our guest experience, open days and hours and online reviews. There are solutions and we need them now!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, I am speaking with Chef and Partner Jamie Lynch of The 5th Street Group, a dynamic series of restaurants in Charlotte, Charleston and Nashville.
The 5th Street Group has some very innovative solutions to this Labor Crisis.
Listen as Jamie tell us:
👉 How Recruiting vs. Hiring is one possible solution to your own labor crisis 👉 The reasons 5th Street Group restaurants are 100% staffed 👉 Why other restaurants and groups are reaching out for their techniques 👉 The Ins & Outs of their innovative “Tip the Kitchen” program 👉 How ownership matches up to $500 per day to beat the labor crisis 👉 Why guest contributions work and bring in $800,000 in the first year
As well as other challenges and best practices during these crazy times. I hope this episode helps solve your own labor crisis.
Watch or Listen to this episode and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
You’ve got a thousand details on your plate and more important things to do than worry about your Accounts Payable. Yeah, I know it’s gotta be done, but it doesn’t have to be so complicated!
Imagine a world in that your accounts payable is completely automated and you no longer must take the invoice, pay it, enter it into your accounts payable system and then throw it into your already overflowing file cabinet.
This technology is now available, I was stoked to learn about it, and I think you will be too. This accounts payable system is almost like a fully automated, paperless filing cabinet.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Barrett Boston, the CEO of www.plateiq.com
Listen as Barrett tells us:
👉 How you can stop paying your accounts payable the old-fashioned way 👉 The way to eliminate paper invoices, paper checks and old-school data entry 👉 The simplicity and efficiency of a remotely accessed accounts payable system 👉 How you can pay 180,000 in-system vendors through ACH, your “Plate IQ Card” or regular credit card to gain points 👉 About Full integration with Quickbooks and other accounting software 👉 Getting cash back from paying vendors early or on-time
And, of course, how the on-boarding is quick and easy and the client support stellar.
If you’re interested in taking your accounts payable to the next level so you can focus more on pleasing your guest, PlateIQ has a free consult at www.plateiq.com
Watch or Listen to this episode, dial in your systems, and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
https://bit.ly/E314RRP
Thank you to our sponsors:
🌟SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
🌟Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
🌟FanConnect – Get new and repeat business, fill your tables and boost sales with Birthdays: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
In this business, you can either run a restaurant or create a powerful Brand! There is a big difference between the two.
The image your team & restaurant project to your guests determines guest satisfaction, repeat business, word of mouth and positive reviews. Building a strong and lasting brand is all about the experience your concept provides.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Bob Andersen of https://thegreatgreekgrillfranchise.com/, a fast-growing franchise that delivers a guest experience authentic to Greek lifestyle and culture.
Listen as Bob tell us: 👉 The importance of creating an authentic vibe & ambiance that draws guests and keeps them coming back 👉 How communication & keeping guests informed leads to sustaining loyalty 👉 The benefits of being active and socially minded in the community you serve 👉 All necessary operating systems for efficiency & consistency across multiple locations 👉 The reward programs that really work 👉 How The Great Greek is overcoming today’s restaurant challenges 👉 Catering as an added Profit Center
And of course, the Franchise opportunity for those interested in this growing concept.
Listen on then go out & Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
✨ Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E313RRP
Connect with Bob: https://www.instagram.com/greatgreekgrill/ https://www.facebook.com/GreatGreekGrill
Thank you to our sponsors:
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
There’s a huge difference between a restaurant’s Culture and their Mission.
Most restaurants have a Mission Statement, but once it’s put on the wall do the staff practice it? If they do, that’s called culture.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking all about the power of culture with Michael Mabry, President of www.famoustoastery.com
Both their Mission and their Culture is “Be Famous”! This operating philosophy is embraced and practiced by all stakeholders, from corporate to suppliers, to individual franchisees to their staffs.
Ours is a business of relationships…between the people we choose to do business with, to the people we hire to the guests we serve. Our operations live and die by the authenticity and strength of these relationships.
Listen as Michael shares: 👉 What “Be Famous” is all about and how to create a powerful restaurant culture 👉 How to maintain the delicate balance of all our relationships for optimum success 👉 The Secret Sauce of successful restaurants 👉 Current operating Pain Points (Labor, Supply, Inflation…) 👉 How to maintain the customer “Value Proposition” 👉 The key to maintaining consistency as a brand grows quickly
And of course, how this chain plans to double its locations by 2024 by “Being Famous”!
Watch or listen on then Go Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
🌟 Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
🌟 Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Hospitality drives our business and is the foundation that great guest service is built upon. Your restaurant’s success and competitive advantage will always come from each member of your team providing genuine, caring hospitality. Do this and your repeat business, online reviews and profits will rise.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Greg Provance of GP Hospitality Partners, a true kindred restaurant spirit and expert on the fine points of hospitality.
Listen as Greg tells us:
- What hospitality really means
- Learnings from hosting some of the world’s biggest celebrities and stars
- How to create raving fans for your operation and a sense of ownership by the team
- The “Stock Market” analogy and how guests invest in your business
- How creating trust is your restaurant’s greatest currency
- Why true leaders empower, not delegate
And about Greg’s new book Butts in Seats, Creating Raving Fans for your Restaurant. A read that gripped me on every page and one I recommend to any service business.
Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E311RRP
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
🌟 SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
🌟 FanCONNECT - Get New and Repeat Business, more birthday parties, keep your tables full, and increase your revenue. https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
🌟 Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
🌟 The Academy – Everything you need to know to Start & Run a super popular and profitable restaurant! https://restaurantrockstars.com/
I’m obsessed with Marketing, but few operators are great restaurant marketers or have the time. On top of that, few marketing ideas are fully trackable so you know where the business is coming from and the return on your investment.
Well in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, we have a solution. I’m speaking with Dyson Barnett of https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/ Dyson’s a former restaurant owner/ operator and knows a thing or two about reaching your customers and getting new ones in the door.
Listen as Dyson tells us:
- How you can fill your seats 7 days a week, not just your busiest days
- 7 out of 10 people dine out on someone’s Birthday – why not your Restaurant?
- How a targeted customer Data Base is the key to more restaurant traffic
- The strategy to attract larger parties and higher check averages
And best of all, how your birthday campaign can be completely “Done For You” with no hassles and proven ROI.
Listen to this episode, get your restaurant onboard with the Birthday Club and don’t let these customers celebrate anywhere else!
Rock On!
Roger
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
FanCONNECT - Get New and Repeat Business, more birthday parties, keep your tables full, and increase your revenue. Join The Birthday Club https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
This can be a crazy business and we all have crazy restaurant stories!
In this episode, I’m speaking with Stratis Morfogen, a restaurateur’s restaurateur and industry disruptor. He tells about playing by his own rules, having a driving vision, creating luck, and achieving destiny.
Listen as Stratis tells us about:
🌟 Turning the tables on the mafia 🌟 Finding success in one of the world’s most challenging and competitive restaurant cities 🌟 Seeing around corners and predicting the future 🌟 Staying relevant in a constantly shifting industry and business climate 🌟 Delivering hospitality in an automated concept 🌟 The magic dust of truly great restaurants
And of course, his book “Be a Disruptor, Streetwise Lessons for Entrepreneurs, from Mobs to Mandates”!
This one has it all!
Don’t miss this episode, then go out and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E309RRP
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Plate IQ - Simplify and automate your accounts payable. Plate IQ is your paperless Digital Filing Cabinet that frees your workspace from invoices, receipts, and statements. Learn More: https://www.plateiq.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Many of us lease space for our restaurants. Those looking to expand or open a new business need to evaluate many space options and then negotiate their best deal and terms.
It has been said that “You don’t get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate”! To come out on top, takes experience and the right approach.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Dale Willerton aka “The Lease Coach”.
Listen on as we get the inside scoop on:
- How to select the best space for your concept
- Finding the balance between lease cost vs. location
- What is a “Profitable Lease Agreement”
- Lease concessions you should ask for
- Common Area Maintenance (CAM) Charges and what’s reasonable
- What’s important at renewal time
And the benefits of hiring an expert to negotiate your lease for you.
This episode is a must-listen.
Now go Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Lots of restaurants have opened their doors and hoped for the best. Those that truly Rock their restaurants have a Strategy - a game plan that becomes their mission. If this is done well; the staff, restaurant, and guests become one! That’s the magic dust of a great restaurant.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Martha Lucius, a restaurant strategist and kindred hospitality spirit who was inspired by experiencing great food & drink around the globe. Listen as we peel back the layers of true hospitality, the essence that defines our industry and our business.
Martha will be dishing on:
- Her food and drink journey around the world
- Challenges and Key-learnings from Martha’s two Baltimore Cafes
- Leadership and Empowerment vs. Management and Delegation
- Critical restaurant technology and systems for success
- Mission Statements versus Company Culture
- What is a restaurant strategist and why work with one?
And of course, the ins and outs of her latest venture, Church Bar – Filled with the Spirits!
Enjoy this episode then Rock YOUR own Restaurant!
Roger
Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E307RRP
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Plate IQ - Simplify and automate your accounts payable. Plate IQ is your paperless Digital Filing Cabinet that frees your workspace from invoices, receipts, and statements. Learn More: https://www.plateiq.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Not every first restaurant succeeds. Many of us have opened concepts with the best of ideas and intentions only to see the dream fade. But those who see a more powerful future vision and keep going may rise to extraordinary heights.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Austin Samuelson of Tacos 4 Life. Austin and his wife started their first concept by trying to make a healthier pizza. It wasn’t the success they hoped for, but that did not deter them from realizing a much bigger mission. As 25 million children die from starvation worldwide each year, the Samuelson’s are making a huge difference one meal at a time.
The pair crowdfunded their next concept from about 350 people, with a truly one-for-one model—for every taco, salad, quesadilla, rice bowl, or nachos sold, 24 cents is donated to Feed My Starving Children, which is the equivalent of one meal. Since opening, Tacos 4 Life restaurants have collectively donated more than 19 million meals. When you buy a meal, you feed a child in need.
Listen on as Austin shares: - The Tacos 4 Life start-up story and how they grew to 21 locations - Branding and ambiance as a competitive advantage - Catering as a profitable brand extension - Their unique way of staffing, onboarding, and training during the labor crisis - Marketing that works
And of course, how great food and service give back to the world at large.
Don’t miss this episode, then Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
You know a really great restaurant the minute you walk in the door. It’s attention to detail, the way you’re greeted and made to feel comfortable, the ambiance, service provided and of course the food & drinks.
Hitting all these marks is a continual challenge, but my guests today aren’t missing a beat!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. I’m speaking with family operators Joe, Nicole and Blane of the Blue Collar Restaurant Group http://www.bcrg.co/ They have 9 concepts and growing!
Listen as they tell us:
- The true meaning of “Service First”
- How creating a culture based on family uplevels the guest experience as well as the team
- The importance of cross-training to increase skillsets and move versatile “key” team-members across the organization
- How supporting the communities, they serve, and veterans helps their restaurants “do good by doing good”
- Necessary technology that enhances the personal touch with their guests
- Recognizing up and coming talent for their operation and longevity of staff
And of course, dealing with today’s uncertainties in running restaurants.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Plate IQ - Simplify and automate your accounts payable. Plate IQ is your paperless Digital Filing Cabinet that frees your workspace from invoices, receipts, and statements. Learn More: https://www.plateiq.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Pride and passion run deep in the restaurant business no matter the size of the organization. Some may be fulfilled running a single independent restaurant while others aim to grow their concepts to multiple locations.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Anthony Ackil who co-founded and grew a 70+ unit restaurant chain, then exited to become the Founder of www.streetlightventures.com No matter your restaurant plan and strategy, stay tuned to learn how to: run a great restaurant, grow one concept to many and maybe even get inspired to discover new opportunities.
We’ll be discussing:
- Anthony’s story of growing his successful chain and investing in other successful hospitality operations
- What critical foundation makes one great restaurant able to become an even more successful chain or franchise
- The secret to “consistency” and fostering raving fans for your operation
- Staying relevant and the need to keep innovating
- Restaurant systems necessary to facilitate growth
- How effective training raises morale and elevates company culture
And importantly, what investors look for in a growing restaurant operation.
Listen on and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes. Learn More: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Plate IQ - Simplify and automate your accounts payable. Plate IQ is your paperless Digital Filing Cabinet that frees your workspace from invoices, receipts, and statements. Learn More: https://www.plateiq.com/
Everyone is searching for solutions to today’s restaurant “big issues” ie: labor, prices, shortages…
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Sam Zeitz, CEO of www.grubbrr.com Grubbrr offers one such solution with their self-ordering technology and digital restaurant kiosks.
Listen on as Sam tells us:
- What the “restaurant of the future” looks like
- How this technology combines order by phone with speed, convenience and ease of payment
- The way Grubbrr offers Upsells & Suggestive Selling to increase the guest check
- Leveraging “Artificial Intelligence (AI)” for most popular or profitable items
- How to keep guests informed and notified by text and the “Progress Board”
And of course, the on-boarding process and timing to get your restaurant set up..
ROCK Your Restaurant. Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
SparkPlug - The World’s 1st Incentive Management Platform for Restaurant Servers. Sparkplug Will Pay $200 For Your Restaurant’s 1st Incentive Campaign. Learn More: https://Sparkplug.App/rockstars
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
To build a great business, it takes not only a clear vision but a relentless pursuit to stay ahead of your competition. As restaurateurs, we are competitive by nature, and to play our best game, we need to always strive to stay fresh, innovate and dazzle our guests.
In this week’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mark Setterington, the Co-Founder and CEO of Island Fin Poke Co. Mark is a 35-year industry veteran who has managed some of the world’s leading restaurant brands. As you listen, you’ll see what it takes to build a unique innovative brand and unified culture while targeting rapid growth.
Listen as Mark shares:
- The meaning of the Hawaiian term “Ohana” and company culture that is not only embraced, but shared and practiced company wide
- How to create a universal Vibe that translates the brand no matter the location
- Launching a new concept where the food and experience sells itself
- The guest service experience and how it is consistently delivered
- Repeat business and what brings them back for more
- The importance of keeping operations simple and efficient
And of course, one man’s journey that brings intuition and broad experience to bear on founding and operating a dynamic concept.
Listen on, then go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
SparkPlug - The World’s 1st Incentive Management Platform for Restaurant Servers. Sparkplug Will Pay $200 For Your Restaurant’s 1st Incentive Campaign. Learn More: https://Sparkplug.App/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes. Learn More: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
A 20+ year run in this business holds hard-won experience and many stories!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Eric Scheffer of www.thescheffergroup.com. Eric is a true industry leader, visionary, and builder of five dynamic concepts in Asheville, NC.
Listen as Eric shares with us:
- The “secret sauce” of a truly great restaurant and what it takes to get there
- Where restaurants are falling short in running their business
- The importance of “Culture” and its impact on the team and hospitality
- Leadership style versus management style
- The how-to of building a “Brand”, not running a restaurant
- Why 100 employees stay loyal and their long tenure to his brands
And we discuss the labor crisis, today’s challenges, and Eric’s best advice to operators moving forward.
Don’t miss this episode, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E301RRP
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
SparkPlug - The World’s 1st Incentive Management Platform for Restaurant Servers. Sparkplug Will Pay $200 For Your Restaurant’s 1st Incentive Campaign. Learn More: https://Sparkplug.App/rockstars
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
I had great success by incentivizing my entire team to strive for maximum performance and guest service. You might say it was my “secret weapon” for over 20 years running restaurants. Now, it’s more important than ever to keep your good people happy and create a culture that attracts new team-players.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Andrew Duffy, the CEO and Co-Founder of http://www.sparkplug.app, the world’s first Incentive Management Platform for restaurants.
Andrew shares with us:
- The difference between Leading and Managing your team
- What Hospitality really means
- Why the disparity in restaurant earnings, and how incentives keep the entire team performing their best
- The results of polling 500 restaurant workers about their current compensation
- How to customize incentives for any team goal
- Capturing valuable incentives from your suppliers
And the importance of training, menu and restaurant knowledge to truly serve your guest.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-300-incentives-may-solve-your-labor-challenge/
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes. Learn More: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Plate IQ - Simplify and automate your accounts payable. Plate IQ is your paperless Digital Filing Cabinet that frees your workspace from invoices, receipts, and statements. Learn More: https://www.plateiq.com/
SparkPlug - The World’s 1st Incentive Management Platform for Restaurant Servers. Sparkplug Will Pay $200 For Your Restaurant’s 1st Incentive Campaign. Learn More: https://Sparkplug.App/rockstars
These are crazy times for all of us, and now more than ever it’s up to you to deliver dining experiences that WOW your guest, make them forget their daily routine and give them a memorable escape. This is the “key” to loyalty, repeat business and the pride that comes from making guests happy.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Bob Ray, the C.O.O. of Margaritas a 25 location Mexican concept that really knows how to dazzle its patrons. Imagine walking in the door and feeling the hospitality, sights, sounds and tastes of south of the border. You’ll really feel like you’ve just landed in Acapulco or Mazatlán.
Listen as Bob speaks to:
- How providing authentic and genuine dining experiences leads to high check averages, repeat business and glowing reviews
- Effective on-boarding, staff training and retention
- Providing staff with the tools they need to succeed and time-off to recharge
- Vital technology for convenience, productivity and enhanced guest experiences
- Management priorities and proven results
- Margarita’s proven marketing strategy
And how this restaurant group achieved 20% sales increases during multiple quarters of the pandemic and a 50% higher cash contribution YTD 2021.
Don’t miss this one, then go Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Show Notes: https://bit.ly/E299RRP
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Imagine the know-how and experience you would have after building 1,500 restaurants. Would you then have the Golden Touch?
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Kevin King, President of www.donatos.com, Kevin’s long career has taken him some of the most successful franchises in the business including Dominos, Papa Murphys, Smoothie King and others.
Listen on as Kevin tells us:
- The Fundamental Elements of Restaurant Success
- How Donatos is dealing with labor, inflation, and the supply chain
- Why piled high edge to edge toppings still make sense with rising food costs
- Why Donato’s is unique and their extraordinary, continued growth during the pandemic
- Necessary technology and other critical operating systems
- His best advice to operators now
And the learnings and experience that come from an illustrious career.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode Page: https://bit.ly/E298RRP
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
An “A-Player” is someone with great personality, stellar product knowledge, a true understanding of service and a strong desire to please the guest. Imagine if your entire team took this approach!
In this week’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Zaylan Jacobsen. Zaylan is a veteran server, bartender and team leader who saw a gap in staff training and service. He not only found a way to up-level the guest experience in his own employer’s restaurants but is now disrupting the industry.
Listen as Zaylan describes:
- How great restaurants create a strong culture
- The importance of effective training on the guest experience
- Seeing your staff as valuable “assets” not replaceable commodities
- Valuing and encouraging team contributions
- Technology that unfortunately detracts from true hospitality
- Better ideas to combat the labor crisis
- Turning restaurant jobs into careers with limitless potential
You’ll want to stay tuned as Zaylan describes how and why he created a game-changing restaurant training App that will transform service in restaurants and hospitality operations. Get your free Demonstration at www.srvnow.com
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
This is a FUN episode. I’m speaking with a food writer, podcast/ television host and all-around colorful guy Chef Joe Ricchio. He is a big personality around the food scene in the state of Maine, as well as in the culinary world at large.
Joe has written for Bon Appetit, The Food Network, The New York Times and has appeared on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations”. He is all about food trends, new and favorite restaurants, critiques, up and coming chefs and more.
Listen on as Joe Shares:
-
The most important restaurant experiences to deliver (from the guest perspective)
-
What attracts him to a restaurant to review, and what he looks for when dining at a new restaurant
-
The current state of restaurant Quality, Service & Price
-
How he worked in 45 restaurants over 25 years
-
Personal Cheffing, chef gigs and what it takes to build a clientele
-
What he cooks for himself and the most bizarre thing he’s eaten
And more fun, crazy restaurant stories and experiences!
Watch or Listen and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: https://www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
As a restaurant leader, your employees need confidence in your post-pandemic plan and to know what their role is in it.
During these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to be cognizant of the difference between managing and leading. It’s also critical that you empower your staff versus delegate to them.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I’m speaking with Matt Rolfe. He is a noted industry speaker, coach, entrepreneur, and author of the new book “You Can’t Do It Alone… Focusing on People to Scale, Develop and Lead Your Restaurant”.
Matt is a mentor to the top 10% of our industry, the pioneers, and the game-changers.
Listen as Matt shares:
- The Difference between True Leaders and Managers
- Why Empowerment builds your organization
- His approach to leading with Vulnerability and Authenticity
- The Importance of having a 1- and 3-Year Strategy
- How the most effective leaders prioritize and execute
He also explains why having a 100-Day Business Plan enables forward growth post-pandemic.
Watch or listen and then go Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Chefs are the “Heart” of the Heart of the House. They run our kitchens, nurture, and develop the skills of prep and line cooks, and most important create and deliver the cuisines that bring guests to our restaurants.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Brandon Boudet, Co-owner and Executive Chef of Little Dom’s of Los Angeles and the new Little Dom’s Seafood in Carpenteria.
Listen on as Brandon shares:
- Bringing his New Orleans roots and cooking inspirations to one of the world’s most competitive restaurant markets
- The importance of leadership style and his training philosophies
- Skillsets and personality traits of the best staff
- Creating ways of coping with labor challenges
- Best advice for operators now moving forward
And of course, the pivots. Chef Brandon shares the impact of Little Dom’s streetside “Deep Fried Turkey Feasts” on Thanksgiving and the success of selling market and retail items to satisfied guests.
Don’t miss this.
ROCK On! Roger
Thank you to our Sponsors:
SRV - Unlock Staff Potential and Maximize Sales. SRV teaches your team to profitably sell and accurately create the food and drinks at your restaurant. Learn More: https://srvnow.com/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Hospitality defines our business and delivering amazing guest experiences is the name of the game. It’s about leveraging a true competitive advantage.
Why?
Because you’re passionate and proud of your operation, your people and the products you serve.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chris Adams, CEO and Founder of the Ellis Adams Group, an international hospitality consulting firm that works with some of the leading hospitality brands around the globe.
Listen as Chris shares:
- What it takes to rise to the top of this business… share this with your entire team!
- The impact leadership style has on developing your staff
- How our industry can re-invent itself during these most challenging times
- Why “reflective thinking” leads to his best ideas
- The importance of making mistakes and why “failure” is not failure
- The new future “culture” for both guests and staff
And of course, the essence of hospitality and how to stand apart from the competition.
Listen on, then go out and exceed your guest’s expectations!
ROCK On.
Roger
Learn the top 3 ways you are killing your restaurant’s profits. https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Chefs are the heart of our kitchens.
They work with passion under the most challenging of conditions, heat, and pressure. They certainly deserve our thanks and our recognition.
This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is all about the James Beard Foundation and most importantly, the famous awards each year. Our guests are Dawn Padmore and Tanya Holland who lead the awards committee.
Listen on as Dawn & Tanya share:
- The incredible legacy of James Andrew Beard, famous chef, author lecturer, and television personality
- The prestige and history of the JBF Awards
- How the deserving candidates are recognized and nominated
- New categories of awards and criteria for selection
And importantly, what the James Beard Foundation is doing to advance racial and gender equality, as well as sustainability in our industry.
Don’t miss this episode, then keep ROCKING Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn the top 3 ways you are killing your restaurant’s profits. https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Pride and passion run deep for all of us in this business. but rising from a deep personal tragedy to open multiple successful concepts takes something more.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Lisa Dahl, the CEO and Executive Chef of www.dahlrestaurantgroup.com Lisa found Sedona, Arizona to be an especially healing and inspiring place to build her concepts. She is a self-taught chef, multiple cookbook author, and company visionary doing great things for our industry and her community.
Listen as we discuss:
- Early influences and becoming a noted Chef
- Formal culinary education, apprenticeship, or self-learning
- Lisa’s new cookbook “A Romance with Food”
- Appearing on The Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay”
- Leadership style, staff training approach, and the labor crisis
- Necessary systems and technology
And what it takes to create successful concept after concept.
We can all be inspired by Lisa’s message and guiding light: “Devoted to Excellence and Blessed by Grace!
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
Learn the top 3 ways you are killing your restaurant’s profits. https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits
Thank you to our sponsors: Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: http://bit.ly/TRRAcademy
I’ll bet restaurants spend and lose billions of dollars on marketing that just doesn’t work. They try this campaign and try that, all on a hope and a prayer. Unless you can track where your business is coming from, you’re wasting your time and precious marketing dollars.
Have you tried Direct Mail?
I know what you might be thinking... “that’s so old school” or “I tried that once and I didn’t really get the results I was looking for”, I get it, but hang on.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Dave Fink, Founder and CEO of Postie. Postie is disrupting traditional Direct Mail efforts with digital technology and getting far better results. You know I love a disruptor!
Listen and learn as Dave shares:
- How Direct Mail has 20% greater reach than Facebook
- Why Direct Mail has 3X the engagement over email campaigns
- How to win the Modern Marketing Game
- The best Marketing Strategy for restaurants right now regardless of Sales
- The importance of Website Re-targeting
And of course, how Direct Mail meets the Digital World.
Watch or listen, decide for yourself, and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant marketing!
Roger
Learn the Top 3 Profit Killers in Your Restaurant: https://restaurantrockstars.com/profits
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
I’m always impressed by visionary leaders who innovate and transform our industry.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with T.K. Pillan Founder and Executive Chairman of the largest, most influential vegan/vegetarian restaurant company in the U.S. His restaurants include The Veggie Grill, Mas Veggies Vegan Taqueria, and Stand Up Burgers. T.K.’s mission is to stop animal cruelty, end world hunger, and improve both the health of the planet and his guests.
I’ve always believed that a great restaurant website draws the customer in, giving them the sights, sounds, and smells of the experience before they even walk in the door. Whether you are plant-based or not, you will be amazed at how delicious their menu items look and how well they are featured. A photo is worth 1,000 words!
Listen to this episode as T.K. and I discuss:
- Why they focus on a plant-based approach
- The reaction and conversion of the public once they try the food and experience his concepts
- How menu items are designed for presentation, delicious flavor, and guest satisfaction
- R & D and the process they use to select and add new items to the menus
- Giving back to the community and environmental causes
- Labor challenges and best practices
And much more…
Innovation is alive and well in our business, and you never know where your next idea might lead.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
Success in the Hospitality industry requires passion, drive, commitment, and innovation. To stay relevant, you must also have a forward-thinking strategy.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with James J. King, the Founder, and CEO of Titan Hospitality. He has built a world-class operation that includes multiple concepts.
His success is likely attributed to his focus on restaurant leadership; James demonstrates acute attention to detail while also keeping the big picture top of mind. He also places significant attention on inspiring, challenging, and developing staff members to their full potential.
Listen as James shares:
- How a leading restaurant group emerges from the pack
- His group’s “Pillars of Success”
- His Staff onboarding, training, and retention secrets
- How Titan maintained service amidst the Labor Crisis
- The Mission-critical technology Titan uses for safety, efficiency, and guest convenience
- The importance of a clearly defined and understood mission
- How giving back to the community supports a restaurant’s success
This episode demonstrates a true restaurant leader and hospitality professional. His knowledge, experience, and approach are a roadmap for all operators seeking to take their restaurants to the next level.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
There are things you love about your restaurant, but I’ll bet Sales Tax is not one of them. It’s one of those things you must do each month, but if you forget, there are penalties.
In these crazy times, your restaurant might not even have the cash to pay it when it's due.
What’s a restaurant to do?
Well in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with David Joseph and Peter Murray from www.davosalestax.com Here’s a platform that automates the entire process of paying your restaurant’s monthly sales tax.
Listen as we learn how:
- Davo automatically collects your sales tax each day, so the money’s there to pay the tax when its due
- How your restaurant may get a discount for paying the tax on time letting you keep some of the tax
- Davo calculates the different tax percentages for different items your restaurant sells
- Davo integrates with most of the leading Point of Sale systems
- Your restaurant can be set up quick and ready to go in as little as 5 minutes
Davo offers a free 30-day trial at www.davosalestax.com Your first month is free and just $49.99 a month thereafter with no long-term contract required.
Now you can focus on what’s important and go ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
What do a classically trained chef, entertainer and Wall Street trader have in common?
A fast-growing restaurant concept born from humble beginnings, and a consistent commitment to simple high-quality ingredients that taste like a warm hug feels…
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I'm speaking with Pace Webb & Chris Georgalas the founders of “Daddy’s Chicken Shack”.
This concept offers a twist on the classic fried chicken sandwich, chicken & waffles, salads, breakfast, and vegan options. The unique taste offers a fusion of American Southern with a hint of Asian.
It all began on a first date when Chef Pace shared her vision with future husband and Wall Street guy Chris, truly the stuff of restaurant dreams.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Pace and Chris tell us:
• The secret sauce of a dynamic brand • How phenomenal growth in their first restaurant led to investor backing and a budding franchise • Pandemic pivots • The organization and detail it takes to grow national from one location • Finances, Marketing, Staff Training, and the Labor Shortage
And the 1,000 other details it takes to be successful in the restaurant business.
Don’t miss this one, then ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
The industry continues its struggle with the labor crisis. Good people come and good people go, but maybe we’re looking in the wrong place.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chef D. Brandon Walker (better known as Chef D) creator and owner of growing Los Angeles concepts. Before we get into that, let me tell you that Chef is uplifting the industry, his restaurants, and the underserved population by creating “Careers”, not just jobs.
Chef D’s M.O. is to hire and train the homeless, the formerly incarcerated, and those in need of a second chance. The Chef’s approach stands apart as it assumes no prior experience (although some do have it) and develops each person to learn and perform multiple roles throughout the business. Imagine cross-training where everyone shares duties and responsibilities, such as working the counter, cooking food, serving drinks, and washing dishes.
The upside is not only creating a diverse and diversely talented workforce that can jump into almost any position, but shorter more productive workdays and universal equally shared gratuities.
Listen as Chef D tells us:
- How to elevate and welcome all races and walks of life to the culinary world
- Training challenges, benefits, and opportunities
- The loyalty and longevity of staff
- Leading by Example and life skills taught
- “Clear Expectations”, evaluating performance and individual staff contribution
- The upside of universal shared tipping
Not to mention, how Chef D’s “Mar Vista Grab N Go” serves a locally sourced farm to table menu while his new “Art Room” concept elevates fast casual by blending a curated art gallery with beautiful dining spaces.
This episode is one of my most inspiring of the year. Don’t miss it. Watch the interview: https://bit.ly/E285RRP
Now Go Out There and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
This is perhaps the most revolutionary time in the restaurant world. With more available ready-to-go spaces and the food truck opportunity exploding, now may be the time to start your own business, to go boldly ahead with a dream, a strong vision, and people you may already know with talents to help make your vision a reality.
This episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast is all about the entrepreneurial journey…. How to grasp it, how to go after it and how to get it! I’m speaking with Benson Tsai of Stellar Pizza. He is a former Rocket Scientist turned Pizza entrepreneur with a dynamic concept that just may upset and transform the way pizza is made, prepared, delivered, and enjoyed.
Stay tuned as Benson shares:
- Where his idea came from and how he’s putting the pieces in place to launch a completely different pizza concept
- The importance of Team building, and how people you’ve known and worked with may be the key-ingredient to starting and launching a brand
- How to share a vision and what you need to demonstrate to attract funding
- The importance of your “pricing” model to attract and retain your guests
- Efficiencies and Cost Controls to enable strong margins at a reasonable cost to consumers
And of course, Benson’s best advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs with a dream and an idea!
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant or Start One!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Staying ahead of the curve and your competition is critical. As an independent restaurant, you need every advantage!
Today now more than ever, the focus is on guest convenience and safety. What if you could add a virtual Drive-Thru to your business without adding an actual drive-thru lane and window? You Can!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Carl and Javier who are the leaders behind SWIPEBY.
As an independent restaurant, you need every advantage! SWIPEBY delivers a turn-key system to:
- Turn your business into a Virtual Drive-Thru Operation
- Set up online ordering via Web or App
- Provide your team with Notifications when a customer will arrive for pickup
- Offer No-Commission Delivery Service to your guests
The platform also allows easy menu upload, simple changes, and an 86 feature.
Check out their Free Demo at www.swipe.by
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
I love talking shop with “in the trenches” operators. So much to learn, so much in common.
We’ve covered quite a few fast-moving franchises lately, but this one stands out as my guest is not only a 20-year veteran operator of this concept, she’s also the C.E.O.
Sit down with us in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast as I speak with MJ Riva of www.pizzafactory.com She’s a down-to-earth, involved operator who will inspire you. Get ready for some powerful takeaways you can take back to your own operation. Learn why people love their pies and why the Pizza Factory says “We Toss Em, They’re Awesome”!
Listen as MJ shares:
- Why being Community-Minded is Good for Business
- The Secret Sauce of Restaurant Success in a most competitive segment
- Company Culture and the Importance of a Mission Statement
- Guest Service and Staff Training for Excellence
- Best Practices for the Labor Crisis, Rising Costs and Supply Chain Shortages
What really makes me smile is The Pizza Factory’s commitment to helping Service Veterans open their own stores and their “No Bully” partnership with local schools.
Doing Good by Doing Good!
Watch or Listen and then go Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
Few restaurant operators are marketing geniuses. We think we’ve got it covered, but, we sometimes make poor decisions when it comes to marketing. We try this and try that, throw money out the window, and hope for the best, but the results are rarely there. Why? Because the bottom line is unless you can rock-solid track every ad and campaign you run, you’ll never know if it’s bringing in the business.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak once again with Erik Shellenberger. He’s an industry vet who also happens to be a restaurant bar marketing guru. Erik knows what works, what’s BS, and what you should be thinking about before spending another precious ad dollar.
Hang on to your hats as Erik lets it fly and holds nothing back. He’s got strong opinions, but they’re based on fact and real-world experience.
Listen on as Erik shares:
- The common mistakes he sees operators and managers making time and again
- What the difference is between Marketing and Advertising
- The Biggest Money Wasting Marketing to Avoid
- What the “Lifetime Value of a Customer” really means
- Internal Marketing and Guerilla Marketing
- What he thinks about Apple Maps
And of course, we discuss his latest book “Restaurant & Bar Marketing III”.
Watch or Listen and then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Davo – Automate Your Sales Tax. Why not Try Davo FREE for 30 days: https://www.davosalestax.com/
With the continuing labor crisis, chances are you’re still struggling to staff your place, serve guests and keep the lights on! Costs are rising, the supply chain has limited your products and competition is heating up.
With all this going on you’ve probably had to pivot more than once. Well, here’s a new idea. What if you could expand your restaurant’s marketing reach, reduce staff and lower overhead?
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Ghost Kitchen veteran, Michael Liu of Just Kitchen. Listen as Michael tell us:
- What the new restaurant landscape looks like now and into the future
- Why we can no longer rely on the traditional “Dine-In” model
- How you can simplify your operation by offering just delivery
- The myths and truths of 3rd party delivery services
- Why adding multiple “Brands” to your existing menu makes sense
And why this idea just might be your next pivot and ticket to greater success.
Don’t miss this episode, then Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Resource - Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Smithfield Culinary – Inspiring head-turning menu creativity. Visit us for culinary trends and chef-created recipes: https://smithfieldculinary.com/
I am constantly amazed at what I learn from my guests, and the insights and knowledge they share with our audience. As a veteran operator myself, I believe it’s critical to keep your eye out for hooks that catch the public’s attention, as well as competitive advantages to set your place apart from the rest.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Trial Attorney and Restaurateur Kevin Kelley of Kitchen + Kocktails. He is making a big splash in Dallas and Chicago - two incredibly competitive restaurant towns.
What’s his magic formula?
First, Kevin created a concept that’s inclusive, welcome’s all, and serves all. The ambiance is sleek and sophisticated, the food a dynamic twist on classic comfort food and craft cocktails. One visit to the website and you’ll want to visit and experience Kitchen + Kocktails.
Listen as Kevin tells us:
- Why Character, Hard Work, and Compassion are his guiding principles
- The importance of Company Culture to guest impressions
- Menu appeal, quality, and delivering value for the guest
- His leadership style and staff training philosophies
- A winning approach to the Labor Crisis, Pay and Incentives
- How to cross-market Lunch, Brunch & Dinner
And so much more.
Now’s the time to step outside your restaurant, take a closer look at your guest experience and continue to set yourself apart from the competition. It’s the way forward.
Now go out there and ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Bear Robotics – Elevate customer experiences and combat staffing shortages with Servi, our low-cost food running and bussing solution! https://www.bearrobotics.ai/restaurantrockstars
I meet a lot of Rockstars on this podcast, but it’s rare to meet someone who rose from dishwasher to the founder of a fast-growing franchise.
In this week’s episode of The Restaurant Rockstars Podcast my guest is Shawn Lalehzarian of The Red Chickz. He arrived in the US not speaking a word of English and rose through the ranks from dishwasher to server to cook to manager. He then hopped on a plane, immersed himself in Nashville culture, and came up with the magic formula for his chicken franchise.
It’s amazing what is possible in our industry if you have the fire, the passion, and the drive to succeed!
Watch or listen to this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast as Shawn shares with us:
- How Tony Robbins inspired him to keep reaching for his goals
- Key-learnings in his restaurant growth journey
- What it takes to create a unique hot concept that captures the public’s attention
- How The Red Chickz maintains an 80% staff retention rate
- The key to building a huge social media following (90,000+ Instagram followers and over 1 MM on TikTok
- The key is leading by example and treating customers, staff and franchisees like family.
Shawn is moving his business beyond California to open franchises in Nevada, Arizona, and Texas too!
Don’t miss this one, then go out and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Bear Robotics – Elevate customer experiences and combat staffing shortages with Servi, our low-cost food running and bussing solution! https://www.bearrobotics.ai/restaurantrockstars
The last two years have been a roller coaster ride and pushed us all to our limit but – better days are ahead and fear not, 2022 may be your best year yet!
During this most challenging labor crisis, now is more important than ever that you watch or listen to this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. Some of our industry’s leading experts and operators give their best advice and practices on how to overcome this dilemma we all face.
It’s all about simplifying your menu, a new source of funds to pay for increased labor costs, keeping your good staff happy, recruiting (not hiring), and ways to create a welcoming and fulfilling workplace.
Listen to some of the key nuggets you’ll hear:
-
“The challenge I find is that so many people hire somebody and then dis-connect from them. Instead, here’s what great Managers do”! Chef Joshua Karther
-
“Embracing new forms of technology in general is how restaurants should be future proofing their business”! Warner Siebert, Cut + Dry
-
“How restaurants can open into existing spaces without the Millions of Dollars that otherwise would be needed”! Johann Moonesinghe, InKind
-
“Chefs are now buying more pre-cut product than ever before. Things we have to do to balance out with less staff”! Chef Joshua Karther
This episode is just a taste of some of the best advice. You can catch the entire labor crisis show (done in collaboration with Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants) at your convenience here: www.restaurantlaborcrunch.com.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Bear Robotics – Elevate customer experiences and combat staffing shortages with Servi, our low-cost food running and bussing solution! https://www.bearrobotics.ai/restaurantrockstars
We’re all suffering from the Labor Shortage. Now that business is booming, your staff is exhausted and getting burnt out from picking up the slack. What’s the answer?
Well, you might consider hiring a restaurant robot!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I’m speaking with Juan Higueros Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Bear Robotics, the creator of “Servi”, the restaurant robot. I recently came across this invention at the Performance Food Service Food Show in San Antonio and I just had to show you.
Listen and learn how Servi:
- Was tested to map, navigate and operate in real restaurant situations even with multiple robots running
- Delivers 3 Models that Serve Food, Drinks and Bus Tables
- Is NSF Certified for the safety of your guests
- Can be a new marketing “Hook” in your place
- Is proven to increase Gratuities by up to 30%
- Can be hired for as little as $3 Per Hour
In this most competitive business, this is something that really stands out!
Watch or Listen and then go out There and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Bear Robotics – Elevate customer experiences and combat staffing shortages with Servi, our low-cost food running and bussing solution! https://www.bearrobotics.ai/restaurantrockstars
The last two years have pushed us all to our limit, but know this – better days are ahead and fear not, 2022 may be your best year yet!
Our biggest challenge as operators remains the labor crisis. Operating with restrictions, operating short-staffed, and keeping our operations OPEN has proven trying for even the best out there.
Now it is more important than ever that you watch or listen to this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. Some of our industry’s leading experts and operators give their best advice and practices on how to overcome the labor crisis we are all facing. It’s all about keeping your good staff happy, recruiting (not hiring) great new people, and finding ways to create a welcoming and fulfilling workplace.
Listen to some of the key nuggets you’ll hear about employees and staffing during the labor shortage: • “What do employees want?... Financial Security and knowing what meaning this job will bring to their life”! – Joshua Kopel, Million Dollar Restaurant
• “Realistically, existing staff are just physically exhausted, plus the high stress that’s also coming from customers. We think we have a Solution”! – Juan Higueros, Bear Robotics
• “We’re giving our existing team members a stipend if they refer somebody that lasts 90 days. We like stipends, so you’re not burdened long-term with higher wages. We’re also giving our customers gift cards for referring new hires”! – Mike Colonna, Norm’s Restaurants
• “Folks don’t understand if their menus are even profitable. Restaurant margins are worse than they’ve ever been. A lot of operators don’t look at their margins the way that they should”! – Jordan Boesch, 7shifts
This episode is just a taste of the many interviews we conducted. We’ll be releasing more interviews about the labor crisis in the coming weeks. In the meantime, you can always watch the entire show at your convenience: www.restaurantlaborcrunch.com.
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor:
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry-Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Any restaurant that increased sales 40% when the pandemic first hit, and then broke their all-time sales record for year-end 2020, deserves our attention!
What are they doing? What can WE learn from them to be more successful in our own place?
Give a listen to this week’s Restaurant Rockstar’s Podcast. I’m speaking with Mark Finnegan of WaBa Grill, a 200 unit fast casual restaurant in California and Nevada.
This concept’s tagline is “Eat Smart, Be Healthy” and their salad and rice bowl menu (where guests pick their protein, grain, veggies, and sauce) is striking a chord with the dining public.
Learn as Mark shares with us:
- Why WaBa grill was named of the “Top 500” Performing Chains by Nation’s Restaurant News
- The must have technology now and for the post-pandemic future
- How Company Culture is one “key” to your Restaurant’s True Success
- Labor Crisis Best Practices
- Powerful Marketing through the “WaBa Rewards” digital APP
- How to maintain consistency of quality and guest experience in 2 locations or 200
And much more, so don’t miss this episode.
ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Supply chain shortages and rising costs are on everyone’s mind, and its critical to find solutions to maintain already slim margins.
One of the biggest cost increases is for fryer oil, something most restaurants can’t operate without. Over the past few months, we’ve seen oil prices double and even triple!
What to do?
Well in this week’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Jeremiah Chapman, a chemical engineer by trade who invented a product that can save your restaurant up to 25% on your Frying Costs. It’s an environmentally friendly plant-based “pod” that you simply put in your fryer baskets overnight.
Listen as we learn:
- How the Pod extends the life and clarity of your oil by up to 4 days
- The greater efficiency, cleanliness and simplicity of pods vs. fryer filtration systems
- Improved taste and flavor of your fried foods
- Labor hours saved
- Why pods are also sustainable and environmentally friendly
There’s also a Savings Calculator feature at www.freshfry.me Simply enter the price you’re currently paying for fryer oil, the number of fryers you are using and the frequency you change your oil. The calculator will show you how much your operation can save.
Now go out there, save some money and ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
The pandemic has permanently changed the restaurant landscape and the way we must do business in the future.
As restaurateurs, we must stay relevant to our consumer and consistently deliver convenience, value, quality and service.
Countless businesses and successful companies that once dominated their industries and didn’t evolve, no longer exist. Don’t let this happen to your operation.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Meredith Sandland and Carl Orsbourn, industry veterans and co-authors of the new book “Delivering the Digital Restaurant, the Roadmap to the Future of Food” and cofounders of Learn.Delivery.
Listen on as we talk about: • The massive disruption that continues to shape our industry and what this means for you the operator • What restaurant guests are looking for in the restaurants they patronize and their new expectations • Necessary technology and customer conveniences that you must offer • The steps you must take to not just survive, but to thrive now and in the years ahead • How the labor crisis will be resolved and what your restaurant can do now
And how to increase efficiency, decrease costs and lower the need for labor by pivoting to a ghost kitchen or virtual restaurant.
Survival of the Fittest has never been more relevant.
To move forward as restaurateurs, we must stay ahead of trends, technology, and most of all the competition.
Watch or listen to this episode and then go out there and ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
There are many legendary restaurateurs in our business, and we can learn from each and every one of their stories.
Rarely do I find a man still working his restaurants 50 years on with the same energy, passion and creativity that led to 26 different locations.
Imagine building these brands, developing the concepts, leading the teams and fostering the customer relationships. He’s even written a book about his journey titled “Been There, Done That”! This is the stuff of legend.
I could only be speaking to the legend himself, Mr. Frank Guido of Guido Hospitality Group. Now in his ‘70’s, Frank still works his four restaurants 7 days a week because as he puts it: “Your best customer is the one in the building”!
Clearly, Frank takes a personal interest in each of his guests, regulars or not. Watch or listen to this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast as Frank tells us:
• “You have to make it right for the guest and not wait for them to complain”
• Why hiring for attitude over experience elevates your restaurant operation
• What it takes to build incredible customer loyalty in the restaurant business
• How gratifying it is to feed hundreds of veterans for Free and give back to the communities they serve
• What it’s like serving Frank Sinatra, Phil Rizzuto, Tony Bennett, Robert De Niro, the cast of the Sopranos and other luminaries
• The importance of offering affordable take-out options and do-it-yourself meal kits
• How to bounce back from adversity and even total devastation of your restaurants from weather events
We will also hear Frank’s “Magic Formula" for true restaurant success! This one has it all, so don’t miss it!
Watch or Listen and then go ROCK your own Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
We can all learn from a true restaurant magician…
In my book, anyone who can rise from fry cook to creator of a 95 location taco concept has industry magic.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I speak with Mike Rypka, Founder of Torchy’s Tacos. He started with a single food trailer in Austin riding a red Vespa scooter passing out “Damn Good” Tacos. Torchy's is now in 11 states and growing.
Brand-building is a huge component in this company’s success.
Listen as Mike tells us: - How Torchy’s competes in one of the most competitive foodie cities in America - The way toi build a business with one restaurant and grow to multiple restaurants - Why multiple Profit Centers are essential to any operation - The challenges but necessity of maintaining consistency in Food, Service & Ambiance - How Company Culture builds a strong team of staff brand ambassadors - Torchy’s Labor Challenge solutions
And so many other best practices.
Don’t miss this episode.
Watch or Listen and then go ROCK your own Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Sooner or perhaps later you will think about selling your restaurant. Maybe you want to retire, start another business, spend more time with family or just get out from under your operation.
On the flip side, the pandemic has created lots of opportunity for new and existing operators. There are lots of restaurant spaces for lease, many with fit-ups and equipment in place. There are also many restaurants for sale across the country.
Now may be the time to explore these opportunities.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, my friend and fellow industry Pro Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and I will do a deep dive into the Ins & Outs of this topic.
We’ll discuss:
- The questions you should be asking on either side of the bargaining table
- Essential Due Diligence or “Doing Your Homework”
- What is the true “Value” of your business and how is that calculated
- What is “Goodwill” and does it have significant value in your sale or purchase
- Which financials are most the most important
- Why staff are either an Asset or a Liability in this process
- The essential “systems” that maximize your sale price or are most attractive to potential buyers
And so much more….
Listen on then Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
The menu, vibe, store design and service of this juice concept makes it a winning restaurant formula.
Doing all of this in one location is hard…duplicating this into a fast-growing franchise, that's another ballgame! Furthermore…Chris & Ed take it a step further having more than one franchise concept! That really takes them into the big leagues of hospitality, and I can tell you, they have learned a thing or two!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I introduce Susan Taylor/ President & CEO along with Chris Britt and Ed St. Geme Co-Owners of Juice It Up.
Join us as these Restaurant Rockstars give us sound strategy on: • What restaurant customers are looking for right now as we emerge from the pandemic • The importance of a well-crafted mission statement that solid company culture is founded upon • How space design and layout impact the concept’s sales and growth potential • Onboarding strategy and training of new staff • Essential technology for customer safety, convenience and efficiency • Marketing Firepower
And most of all, maintaining that all-important consistency whether you operate in one location or 100.
Don’t miss this episode.
Watch or Listen and then go ROCK your own Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Talk about a great sports story! Take 2 Walk-Ons for the Louisiana State University Basketball Squad, one bench, one napkin and a pen. What do you get?
A Sports Bar/Bistreaux concept on its way to 150+ locations. The idea for this winning concept was brainstormed on the bench of the basketball court. Good thing the founders weren’t starters for the team or Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux wouldn’t be setting the restaurant space on fire!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Co-Captain Brandon Landry of www.walk-ons.com . Listen on as he share his philosophies on:
- The importance of creating a meaningful Company Culture
- Leadership by Example and Management Development
- The Rising Costs of Goods and Labor and how to deal with it
- Why “Made from Scratch” makes a Difference
- Being part of something Bigger than Yourself
AND How…
“anyone can do well when things are good. What matters most is how do you do when you’re hit with adversity”?
Don’t miss this episode.
Now go out there and ROCK your own Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
This pandemic has absolutely required your restaurant to adapt to the times and adopt new customer safe, friendly conveniences. This is more important now than ever as we emerge from the crisis.
The good news is, these guest-friendly conveniences actually increase Sales and Profits.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Brian Cotlove, Chief Business Officer of Bentobox.
A bentobox is a multi-compartment box containing different courses of a Japanese lunch. In this episode, we’ll be talking about an All-In-1 platform that delivers Online Ordering, Gift Cards, Event Tickets, Retail Merchandise sales, Restaurant Websites and more – all in 1 place!
Listen as Brian tells us:
-
The Changing Dynamics of the restaurant business and why you need to stay ahead of the curve and your competition
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Why Digital Ordering and Pay at Table features are critical during this Labor Shortage
-
Why eCommerce is critical to your operations post-pandemic, and what these tools can do for your restaurant
-
How your website either Converts visitors into customers or Not
-
The importance of Analytic Tracking for marketing and sales success
-
Best practices to Maximize your website S.E.O.
And so much more….
Bentobox offers a Free Demo to demonstrate all of the above at www.getbento.com
Watch or Listen and then go ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Most restaurateurs are great at food, but Marketing is not their strong point. Is it any wonder, I constantly see restaurants throwing Tens of Thousands of Dollars $$$ away on everyday advertising costs.
A radio sales guy calls you up and promises to deliver 200,000 impressions a week to your restaurant. Bingo, that just cost you $500. You think “My customers all read that newspaper – I’ll place an ad!
Well, truth be told, that’s like lighting $100 bills on fire in your walk-in. Unless every customer walking through your door tells you “I came in because I heard your ad”, you’ll never know if anything you do or spend your limited funds on actually works and drives business.
Well, take heart and listen on.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Matt Plapp, the founder of www.AmericasBestRestaurants.com and author of the new book “Restaurant Marketing That Works; Before, During and After the Pandemic”!
You’re going to learn:
- Matt’s honest approach to Listen First to Solve a Restaurant’s Marketing Challenge
- Mistakes that restaurants are making all too often
- Matt’s 5-Steps to Proven Marketing Success for any operation
- The Importance of “The Lifetime Value of a Customer”
- How to meaningfully engage and capture “New, Frequent and LOST Customers”
- Why you must present a compelling “Call To Action”
This list could go on and on… you’ll want to listen to get it all!
Now Go Out there and ROCK your Restaurant!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Big or small; chain or indie, we can all learn from true success. The magic restaurant formula is all about service excellence, on point marketing, dialed in finance and a consistency. But don’t forget that social responsibility and giving back can also be a business builder.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Co-Owner Chris Britt and Jim Metevier, President and C.O.O. of Mountain Mike’s Pizza. Their successful growth following this formula has exceeded 200 units and continues with new franchise opportunities.
Chris and Jim are regular guys eager to share their knowledge and experiences.
We’ll learn:
-
Why doing good in the community is “good for all” (schools, churches, youth sports, charities and non-profits)
-
The importance of a strong and clear company culture on the guest experience
-
That serving only the freshest and finest ingredients with generous toppings builds loyalty and word of mouth
-
How Mountain Mike’s is dealing with the Labor Shortage Loyalty Programs, Pandemic Pivots and so much more…
Listen, learn and get re-inspired to ROCK your Restaurant!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
We love the word FREE don’t we? Usually that comes with strings attached or means little to no value. In this case, you’ll want to stick around and hear about something to make running your restaurant easier, less labor intensive and YES, its Free. You even get you cash back!
I don’t need to tell you that in most restaurants, the typical order and receiving process is inefficient. It requires labor time better spent elsewhere, invoices need to be checked against the delivery… you have to worry about damaged product, shortages and returns, keep track of credits and get everything paid… it’s a multiple step process – oy vey!!
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Warner Siebert of Cut+Dry. He’s going to show us a simpler way to:
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Order from most any supplier with a few clicks
-
Simplify the Check-In Process
-
Pay invoices with a credit card even if your vendor doesn’t take plastic
-
Get 30 Day Terms while racking up lots of Credit Card Rewards Points
-
Get Cash Back on Top-Brand items Plus all Manufacturer Rebates automatically
There’s even a Chat function direct to your supplier reps..
Listen on and see if this saves your operation time and money. On top of Cut+Dry being absolutely Free, they’re giving All Restaurant Rockstars listeners a $50 Cut+Dry Cash sign-up bonus using the following link to create their free account: https://bit.ly/3yw9CHc
Now go out there and ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors: Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
I believe that anyone can delegate and tell someone what to do. Instead, it’s a rare thing entirely to nurture, develop and “Empower” your team to achieve greatness!
Nothing in this business is more important than laying a sold staff foundation, as your team represent both your brand and ultimate guest experiences.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chef Joshua Karther of Water’s Edge at Hyatt Lodge in Chicago.
Join us as we learn what hospitality truly means and how to be a highly effective leader.
We’ll discuss:
-
Classical Chef Training vs. Culinary School Education
-
What the Chef means by the term “Leading By Inclusion”
-
Exceeding the expectations of a discerning clientele while simultaneously running dining venues and private parties
-
Staff Training Best Practices while fostering FOH/ BOH chemistry
-
The Chef’s approach to the current Labor Crisis
And much more…
Listen on and ROCK your Restaurant!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors: Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Face it, not every restaurant is busy 24/7. There are times, we need new business and more business.
What if you could turn a switch on your slow times, and suddenly be driving sales and putting out significantly more food?
Well, it’s now possible. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I’m speaking with Alex Canter; a serial entrepreneur, the heir to the iconic Los Angeles eatery “Canter’s Deli” and the creator of NextBite.
NextBite turns your existing operation into a virtual restaurant or ghost kitchen. Listen as we learn:
-
A way your restaurant can drive new business when you need it, while preparing your current cuisine
-
How you can expand your current restaurant brand to multiple new brand names and reach a whole new audience
-
The 30% Profit Potential of this new proven business model
-
The Culinary Expert-designed Menus and recipes available for your operation
-
Easy onboarding and support
I’m a huge believer in new profit centers and revenue streams. Listen on and see if this may be your restaurant’s next Big Opportunity.
Now Ignite your FIRE and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
I believe that operators should relentlessly build their brand and run a strong business, not a restaurant. This approach led me to dominate my competition for over two decades.
It was not about dumping buckets of money out the window on traditional advertising or experimenting with this marketing idea and that. Do this and you’ll never know what really works and what’s worth the spend. Instead, it was all about turning my staff and customers into brand evangelists and a marketing army for my business. But before I could do this, I needed to lay the basic “brand foundation” that everything else would be built upon.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with a strategic marketing and restaurant branding expert, Amanda Guerassio of Studio Guerassio.
Listen as we learn:
-
How every guest forms an immediate impression of your restaurant, and what this means to the ongoing success of your business
-
The difference between a Mission Statement and the all-important Positioning Statement
-
A cohesive strategy that combines an on-target logo with fonts, colors and images used consistently across all media
-
How a well-designed website provides guests your restaurant experience before they walk in the door
-
The two most important marketing elements are your website and your menu
This episode is a crash course in the most important way to communicate your business to your guests. Don’t leave it to chance.
Now go out there, build a Brand and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Finding a lifestyle balance in the craziness of the restaurant business is one elusive challenge. Keeping our restaurants and ourselves free from substance abuse is an even greater one.
It’s no secret this business is ripe for misuse. Chefs selling steaks out the back door to feed cocaine habits, bartenders dealing drugs, alcoholic beverages at arm’s reach, etc.. It’s nearly impossible to run a clean business and keep it clean.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Michael Chernow, a former abuser turned restaurateur, celebrity chef, author, fitness guru and business impresario.
Listen as we learn:
- How a stressed-out restaurant owner or manager can shift their thinking and their habits
- Michael’s steps to recovery, followed by his healthy new lifestyle approach
- Best practices that built Michael’s restaurant empire
- What it’s like to appear and compete on “Beat Bobby Flay” and “Chopped”
- How plant-based proteins combined with GF oats, vitamins and minerals are the perfect breakfast
We will also learn all about Michael’s new lifestyle brand “Kreatures of Habit” - inspired healthy products.
Listen on, stay healthy and ROCK your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn more about Kreatures of Habit - https://kreaturesofhabit.com/ IG @Kreaturesofhabit - https://www.instagram.com/kreaturesofhabit FB @OfficialKreaturesofHabit - https://www.facebook.com/OfficialKreaturesofHabit TW @michaelchernow - https://twitter.com/MichaelChernow
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
Sysco - https://www.sysco.com/
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
How many ways has your business shifted during the pandemic? Are you proud of what you and your team has accomplished? Do you see a bright future ahead?
If you’re still standing, it’s time to stoke that fire, get re-inspired and rock your restaurant.
I have to say, for our place the way forward was “Online Ordering” and the ability to instantly change menus to deliver guest convenience, wants and needs. Available technology helped us transform our business to a completely different model when inside dining was shut down.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, we’re going to discuss what technology is most important to serve your guest and re-build a stronger restaurant business. I’m speaking with Brendan Sweeney, Co-Founder and CEO of Popmenu.
Listen as we learn:
- How to build more repeat business from first-timers
- Simple SEO that drives traffic to your website and turns those visitors into regulars
- Having control to change your menu instantly
- Automated marketing that delivers email, text and social media while capturing and keeping your data
- Technology without the intimidation
And best advice from a restaurant pro on moving forward
Popmenu has a free demo to see for yourself. Just click this link: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
What can you offer your guests that they would eat literally any time of day? The answer is Gourmet Pie and Organic Coffee. That’s right, any time of day comfort food that will put a smile on anyone’s face.
This might be the “key” to repeat business and this concept’s fast growth and success.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Sean Brennan, the Founder of The Pie Hole. He’s worked just about every job in hospitality before coming up with this idea. The Pie Hole serves up a classic combination of delicious gourmet pie and organic coffee. Not only that, on top of 7 Los Angeles locations, you can find The Pie Hole in 2 Tokyo locations and in Saudi Arabia.
What’s the key to their success?
- Being open all day (from early am into the night)
- Hiring for Personality, not Experience
- Creating a strong company culture
- Putting family before Business
- Systems across the operation
- Relying on historic data for accurate pars and business levels
- Wholesale accounts and shipping pie nationally
And so many other nuggets and best practices.
I love speaking with founders and Sean’s passion for his people shines through.
Take a slice of pie from Sean’s book and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
During this crazy pandemic, as a fellow restaurateur, I’ve gone through every bit of the challenge as you have. The biggest challenge continues to be labor.
How do you find, motivate, keep and get the best performance from your team?
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with fellow industry pro and friend Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com We’ll be dishing up “5 Ways to Incentivize your team to not only get you through this shortage, but give you a new approach in managing your operation through your staff.
We’re gonna tell you:
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How to Keep the good people you already have
-
What will be the “KEY” to finding new staff
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How to Make it FUN and Keep it FUN!
-
Incentives that will Empower your Managers to Build Your Business
-
A proven idea to Save Money and find new Efficiencies across your restaurant
Listen On, then go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Our industry is always moving towards meeting high guest expectations, and their changing needs and desires. When Covid hit and our restaurants were forced to cut capacity, or shut inside dining down altogether, many of us immediately improvised with an outdoor solution. Parking lots, roof decks, sidewalks and even streets outside our restaurant became our new dining rooms.
Well now that things continue to get back to normal, these new spaces have become an added source of revenue and a huge competitive advantage - A chance to showcase your food, beverage and creativity in an all-new way. If you haven’t already added unique seating for your guests, you won’t want to miss this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast.
I’m speaking with three guests, all offering unique solutions to this new opportunity of outdoor dining. With me today are Mr. Calvin Gray of www.struxure.com that provides turn-key and custom Pergolas, Mr. Jeret Unger of www.phantomscreens.com offering screens and solar shades, and Ms. Tracy Christmann of www.somfysystems.com whose company motorizes these features and structures.
Listen as we learn that:
-
Restaurants are reporting a 65% increase in Gross Profits by adding an outdoor space
-
There are different options available for a variety of spaces to meet most any budget
-
Turn-Key options exist versus completely customized designs for your concept
-
Sensor technology detects changing weather and automates shades for hot and cool conditions
-
The digital APP allows you to control your space remotely
And the complete process (including pro assembly) and lead times for all options.
I recently went to a Farm To Table Restaurant offering a 5-course curated dining experience overlooking the farm fields off the coast of Maine. The unique dining spaces were custom built “yurts’ with the screens and sun shades. A pleasant sea breeze wafted into our space as we enjoyed our meal.
Unique spaces like these create memorable experiences that lead to happier guests and positive online reviews.
Now go out there and ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
I believe that no matter what your concept, you can learn and grow your business from the pizza segment. It’s no surprise that pizza remains one of the strongest concepts in this business before Covid, during the pandemic and now as we emerge from the crisis. I also believe we should all approach our business like the CEO of a fast growing chain with the “Big” picture in mind.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Scott Gittrich, the CEO of Toppers Pizza, www.toppers.com one of the fastest growing pizza chains in the country. Scott set his company up for major success, and this episode is stacked with key-learnings and nuggets for your own operation.
Listen as Scott dishes on:
-
Topper’s Formula of Technology and Innovation that led to 4 straight quarters of Double Digit Sales Growth during much of the pandemic
-
The constant R & D process to develop new menu items that capture the public’s imagination and repeat business
-
Staff Training as a true Competitive Advantage
-
Value-Added Loyalty Programs that keep business coming in the door
And the foundational systems at Toppers that maintain consistency of quality, service and cleanliness at each and every location.
Listen on, then go out there and ROCK your restaurant!
Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsors:
7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Popmenu - For a limited time only, popmenu is offering our listeners $100 off your first month plus an unchanging lifetime rate. FREE Demo: www.popmenu.com/rockstars
At some point, you’ll start thinking seriously about your “Exit Strategy” from the business. This might mean retirement, selling your operation, walking away to start a new business, or just spending more time with family. You can’t do any of these things without a solid manager or two that you can trust.
So many of us spend so much time in our restaurants, but “empowering” our people to take on more responsibility, use solid judgement and shine should be a top-priority.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Ken McGarrie a former restaurant manager who now helps other operators find, recognize and develop management talent.
We’ll be talking all about:
- How Front of House staff prepare to become managers (and even G.M.)
- Best strategies to deal with the Labor Crisis
- Personality traits of the Most Successful Restaurant Managers
- Motivating the team to be their best
- Why “Empowerment” is more effective than “Delegation”
And of course, Ken’s new book “The Surprise Restaurant Manager”.
Listen on, lead by example and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
It’s hard enough to run one successful restaurant keeping all the plates spinning day after day. What if you had to manage multiple diverse concepts and please a highly discerning clientele, while also executing big weddings and functions to boot? Think of the skillset and experience necessary, not to mention calm and cool under fire just for starters.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast I’m speaking with Mr. Ian Pomerville, the Director of Food & Beverage for The Lodge at Spruce Peak in beautiful Stowe, Vermont. Known as “Ski Capital of the East”, some would say Stowe is busier in the summer than winter. Regardless of season, The Lodge is always hopping with upscale guests used to pampered service and perfection with every minute detail.
We can all apply Ian’s philosophies to our own operation. Listen as we learn:
- How to lead, develop and train a diverse team to exceed guest expectations
- What it takes to maintain consistency across all operations
- How The Lodge achieved record sales during the pandemic with fewer tables and limited operations
- Quality-Control Checks and Balances (Fix it before the Guest Sees It!)
- Communication to Guests – What’s Most Important post pandemic
- Why Cleanliness and Safety must remain Top-Priorities for any operation
Ian is truly a hospitality guru, but as you’ll see, he’s also just a regular guy you’d like to have lunch or share a beer with.
Don’t miss this episode.
Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
What can you learn from 102 years of success? Oh I don’t know… Service, Quality, Staff Training, Marketing, Consistency, etc.! Shall I go on?
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I can only be speaking with Mr. Kevin Bazner, the C.E.O. of A & W Restaurants. As a kid growing up in Massachusetts, I remember the classic “Car Hop” Service, the “Frosty Mugs” of trademark Root Beer, the iconic Brown and Orange colors of the brand, and of course my favorite burgers and fries.
It’s amazing that this brand has shown double digit growth the last 2 years, even during the pandemic. You’ll be surprised at A & W’s Covid strategy not to scale back on their inside dining room model.
Listen and you’ll hear all about A & W’s:
- Operational Decisions that set the brand apart from the competition
- Manager and Staff Training Philosophies
- Multiple Revenue Business Model
- New Menu Item R & D
- Franchise opportunities & proven operating systems for Franchisees
And of course the Classic All-American Food & Frosty Mug Root Beer that creates raving fans and keeps them coming back for more.
Listen on then go out there and Rock YOUR RESTAURANT! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
It’s no secret that to be really successful in this business, you must stay focused on Efficiency, Productivity and Profit! And Cost Controls are right at the top of that list as well!
Perhaps your restaurant’s biggest expense is Labor Cost, and with all the challenges of staffing right now, you need to also be thinking about keeping your team happy.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Jordan Boesch CEO of 7shifts, an all-in-one labor management solution.
Listen as we learn:
- How veteran restaurateurs designed this platform to serve the needs of operators
- That it takes just a few clicks to get the “Perfect Schedule”
- How an engaged team providing their feedback and feeling heard lowers turnover by 13%
- How 7shifts tracks lates, no shows and call-outs
A free Mobile APP comes with the platform. You can use it to monitor staff “engagement” at your restaurant, allowing you or your managers to provide additional attention.
Check out the Free Trial at www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
Now Go ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business: https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Thank you to our sponsor 7shifts – Get 3 Months of Industry Leading Labor Management for FREE: https://www.7shifts.com/restaurantrockstars
The restaurant world has changed. Business is increasing, Customers expect more and staff are hard to find. This is a perfect storm for technology that empowers your customer to order, split checks and pay from their own mobile device which frees your team to deliver greater service.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Jon Squire, CEO of www.cardfree.com. This is an all-in-one platform that simplifies the ordering and payment process with contactless technology. There is even a delivery function that saves the high cost of 3rd party delivery fees.
Listen as Jon tell us:
- Why Safety and Convenience are your restaurant’s competitive advantage
- How restaurants can increase Check Averages by 30% and more
- The way to increase Repeat Business and Loyalty 2 X
- Faster Table Turns mean more sales and profit
- How your restaurant can deliver food & drink without expensive 3rd party Fees
Why not check out the FREE DEMO at www.cardfree.com
Now, Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The Restaurant Rockstars Academy – The Ultimate Start-up & Management Courses. Everything you need to know to crush it in the restaurant business. https://restaurantrockstars.com/pricing/
Food, Service and Ambiance are the magic dust’’ of any successful restaurant! But when you add LOVE to that equation, you’re going to create raving fans.
That’s exactly what you’ll see in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. Listen as we feel the love speaking with Renae Scott of California based Ike’s Love & Sandwiches. As Chief Marketing Officer, Renae and her team are building powerful loyalty for this fast-growing chain of sandwich shops.
Listen as Renae dishes on :
- The creative vision and driving force behind Ike’s
- Buzzworthy promotions, unique fan connections and effective reward programs
- How Ike’s is gaining ground on the leading players in the Sandwich Space
- Must-Have Technology for the post pandemic marketplace
- The benefits of allowing staff to express individual personalities
And so many best-practices and executable ideas for your own place.
Listen up and Rock On! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Schedule a Free 30 Min Consult with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Did I ever tell you about when my power went out and I had to move everything in the walk-in to a snowbank?
Its true. Our restaurant had no generator and we couldn't afford to lose thousands of dollars of perishable inventory. I needed a system.
In today’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Im speaking with Mr. Manik Suri Founder and CEO of Therma. Manik recognized that billions of dollars are lost each year in product and food waste and he decided to make a difference. He created a system with simple sensors that immediately notify you and your team of equipment failure, power outage and even human error if a freezer door is left open. You can take instant action before product and money are lost.
Listen as Manik tells us:
- How restaurants can reduce food waste and improve profit
- The impact of refrigerant emissions on equipment efficiency
- How your operation can save $$$ by changing how you store product
- Why this product gives piece of mind while helping to save the environment
Get a free demo and see for yourself the quick, easy and low cost set up of Therma Sensors at www.hellotherma.com
Now Go Out There and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Schedule a Free 30 Min Consult with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
When I started my very first restaurant, I was obsessed with 3 things: Service, Quality and creating Amazing Dining Experiences for my guests. I relied heavily on my team to provide their unique talents, experience and personalities that consistently set us apart from our competition.
I was a relentless Marketer and I was also obsessed with Profit and squeezing every dime out of my operation. I really had no choice, my business was seasonal and only open just 4 months per year. There was no margin for error.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I thought I’d go back in time… Two decades to be specific, and reflect on how I came to start my first restaurant. All the challenges, pitfalls, small victories and hard-won successes that I found along the way.
I’m hoping as we come out of this pandemic, that you can get re-inspired and get back that driving passion that got you into this business in the first place. If you’re still standing and your business has survived, you deserve congrats for sticking it through. Now’s the time to really dial in your operation and get to that place I call “Bulletproof”. Here no challenge is too great and nothing again can stop your momentum.
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Thank you to our sponsor! Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
You don't want to run a restaurant, you want to Build a powerful Brand that draws customers, positive reviews and press!
I’m sure you'd agree that your staff are not only the foundation of your operation, but an extension of your brand. Nothing you do is more important than training your staff, keeping them performing their best and inspiring them to dazzle your guests.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Jim Snediker of Stock Manufacturing Company in Chicagoland. Jim is a “hospitality workwear guru”, and we’ll be speaking all about the importance of cool and quality uniforms that keep your staff happy and customers coming back for more.
Listen as Jim tells us:
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How giving back to the community Doubled their business during the pandemic
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How the top restaurants think differently about uniforms
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The role “Aesthetics” play in creating, building and sustaining your Brand
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Choices between custom uniform programs and those available immediately in stock
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What’s trending right now and uniforms that stand the test of time
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Why Stock’s uniforms have garnered a “cult” following among top restaurants and Michelin Star properties
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What to look for in fabric choices, comfort, fit and styles
And much more.
Don’t forget Jim is offering our Restaurant Rockstars Audience 20% OFF your uniform program. Use the Coupon Code: Roger20 at checkout.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsor!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
What do one of the world’s largest companies have in common with you?
An authentic vested interest in helping your restaurant operation succeed! As restaurateurs and managers, we continue to need all the help and support we can find to get past this crisis. Not just surviving the pandemic, but making your business better for your staff and customers everyday.
Don’t miss this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast as I speak with Mr. Paul Edmondson, Vice President of Proctor & Gamble Professional. Paul has a true passion for the hospitality industry, and he applies a personal approach to elevate this business.
We’ll talk about:
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The innovation at P & G which led to a quick roll-out of a product proven to kill the virus in 60 seconds, providing 24 hour protection on frequent-touch surfaces
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Why customers are once again visiting restaurants for the food and convenience, but returning for cleanliness and safety
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How the ability to adapt quickly with digital, social and eCommerce tools are the keys to your future success
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Why finding the balance between investments and improvements are critical as restaurant revenues recover
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Special programs at P & G specifically designed to help smaller operators
As well as the P & G brands that we know and trust and how they help you run a better hospitality business.
Paul’s best advice is to: “Make sure you give your patrons every reason to return every time they enter your door”!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsor!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
This is not a trick question! Would you like to multiply your restaurant’s sales and bring in more business when you need it without stressing out your staff, or adding more employees?
Then listen to this week’s episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. I’m speaking with Mr. Kirk Mauriello, the Co-Founder and President of Virturant. He’s going to show you how to expand your marketing reach and bring in more business when you need it the most.
How is this possible you may be asking?
Whether you serve Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner or all 3, you create a “virtual” ghost kitchen within your kitchen. Suddenly you’re restaurant is casting a really broad net that brings in the business…. Anywhere from an extra $500 to $2,000 per week times the number of different brands you choose.
Best of all, you’re restaurant isn’t losing profits from the delivery service. The customer is happily paying extra for the convenience, and they have no idea where the food is coming from.
Time to get Cooking!
Now go out there and Rock Your (Virturant) Restaurant!
Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsor! Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
This restaurant needs no introduction. Your first thought might be orange hot pants, calendar girls and sex appeal, but this brand is going much broader and shifting its focus to a more well-rounded appeal.
If nothing else, Covid changed the consumer’s mindset to “escape”. Escape from restriction, escape from routine and most of all escape from the rigors of daily life. Customers are now coming back to restaurants, and now they care more about the experience than ever before.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Sal Melilli, the CEO of that famous chain called “Hooters”! Sal will tell us that dining out is first about the experience. He’s Italian and his belief in hospitality comes from the long-standing tradition of Sunday dinner with family. We all seek these experiences. Gathering once again together with friends or family, sharing good food and good times. This is our culture, our heritage and it binds us all together.
Now Sal has opened a new concept perfectly aligned for the future. It’s called “Hoot’s Wings”.
Listen as Sal and I discuss:
- How nurturing your staff up-levels your organization
- Motivating, Inspiring and Leading by Example
- Creating an unstoppable Company Culture by spreading the love
- Brand-Building 101 and the power of “Hooks”
- Pivoting for a stronger future post-pandemic
And decades of hard-earned restaurant experience from the dishpit to the Executive Suite!
Don’t miss this episode.
Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsor! Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I speak with Ms. Karalyn White of Paramount Fine Foods, creator of Box’D.
Listen and learn how this Middle Eastern food concept trades front of house order-takers for chefs and a concierge team, delivering healthy food fast.
Here’s how it works: After placing an order – either through the Box’D mobile app or via in-store kiosks, Box’D chefs prepare fresh and healthy meals, using fresh vegetables, signature spice blends, and high-quality proteins, to make a customer’s “box” just the way they like it.
When the food is ready, they’ll deliver it to an in-store “digital cubbie”. The customer is notified on their mobile device and on the face of the cubbie so they can just grab their food and go!
It’s all about healthy food and contactless, touchless safety. This may be the future of quick-service. Check it out at: https://www.boxdbyparamount.com
Now Go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsor! Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Exemplary service, hospitality and exclusivity are hard to achieve in any restaurant or operation, yet are highly sought by your customers. We all want to feel special and important, and those businesses able to deliver the “personal touch” will capture our business.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Ron Gorodesky Founder and CEO of Refined Hospitality. He is a leading hotelier who tells us that the new normal is about health and safety. Delivering these authentically through your team will give you the strongest advantage over your competition.
I love speaking with kindred spirits who are passionate about customer service and this episode really zeroes in on what it takes and how to deliver.
Listen as he tells:
- How to motivate, train and deliver extraordinary guest experiences through your team
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What it means to “Lead by Example”, gain respect and foster team spirit
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How rotating staff through positions increases morale and enhances service
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How to create demand and sell out boutique hotels during the heart of the pandemic
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What health and safety programs were put in place to elevate the guest experience, not detract from it
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The true definition of Hospitality
And so much more…..
We can all raise our game by listening to Ron. Don't miss this episode.
Now go out there and Rock your Restaurant (or Hotel)!
Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsor!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
It’s hard enough to start and successfully operate a restaurant in this country. But imagine doing it with numerous restaurants, while raising a family in a foreign land. This is the birth of a proud family legacy, and generations of pride in our business.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Yianni Kosmides of Apola Greek Grill. He is a Greek native who with his brother Stefano, cut his teeth at an early age helping run every part of the family business.
We’ll learn of their father Dimitri’s pride, strong work ethic and deep love of tradition which fueled the boy’s own restaurant dreams. After selling the family restaurants and starting to enjoy a well-earned retirement, Yianni and Stef convinced their father to help them launch Apola Greek Grill, now a growing franchise based in California. Together this family is introducing Greek street food culture to the good old US of A.
This episode is all about the “Secret Sauce” of running a great restaurant based on freshness, quality and tradition. We’ll talk about the importance of leading by example, training, attention to the bottom line, and let’s not forget the food.
If you’ve ever tasted a real Greek GYRO (pronounced “Yeero”), with amazing traditional Tzatziki, this episode will make you hungry for Greek cuisine. Not only that but I’m sure you’ll learn a thing or two that you can apply to your own restaurant. And, if you’re looking for a new opportunity, check out their franchise model at www.eatapola.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsors!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Restaurant Brands: https://www.restaurantbrands.com Use Promo Code RESTAURANTROCKSTARS to get 25% off most domains.
Every now and again, I meet wonderful people filled with passion and zest for life. Often, this translates into doing good for others and being fulfilled. Combined, these traits have become a business sharing the products of a romantic country, struggling to emerge from economic adversity.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Rafael Martinez De Sanzo, better known to his friends as “Rafa”, a born and raised native Argentinian. Joining us is Ms. Jillian Butta, formerly Rafa’s student and now C.O.O of www.AuthenticArgentina.com
Rafa is a Gaucho by birthright and now a landowner, rancher and exporter. A Gaucho is defined as a nomadic, colourful horseman and cowhand of the Argentine Pampas (grasslands). Gaucho’s have remained folk heros similar to the cowboy in western North America; and although they both work with cattle, here is where the similarity ends. We learn of the noble Gaucho’s love of the land and tradition that is untainted by economic gain. They care only for love of their animals and quality of the end product, no matter how long that takes.
Rafa and Jill’s mission is to spread the word of their amazing Argentine Beef, Seafood, Olive Oil and Wines which they export to America and internationally.
What’s the benefit to your restaurant? The finest freshest products, with powerful marketing appeal at a significant price advantage based on Argentina’s economic climate and uncertainty.
Why not learn more at www.authenticargentina.com and reach out to Rafa and Jill at Rafael@authenticaargentina.com or jillian@authenticargentina.com. Please say hello for us and tell them you saw them on the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsors!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Restaurant Brands: https://www.restaurantbrands.com Use Promo Code RESTAURANTROCKSTARS to get 25% off most domains.
Every now and again I meet a true hospitality innovator. Someone who sees around corners and whose vision anticipates trends before they happen.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I speak with Mr. James Geier. He’s an artist, sculptor and designer at heart, turned restaurateur and event impresario (more on this in a moment). For nearly 3 decades his design studio 555 International has been revered by top sports teams, leading hotels and Michelin Starred restaurants for creating cutting-edge experiences.
James predicted that Chicagoland’s Fulton Market Warehouse District would ultimately become one of the hottest restaurant and entertainment draws in the Midwest. In an area now populated by pricey upscale eateries, he created “Morgan’s on Fulton Event Space” and “Marvin’s Food and Fuel”.
With a nostalgic look back to the 50’s and 60’s, Marvin’s features a sit down or take-out experience offering classic comfort food and “TV Dinners”. Rather than the exclusive vibe of the neighborhood eateries, James believes in offering an “inclusive” experience where everyone is welcome and treated like an old friend. This approach is really a culture where the staff are an extension of their dynamic owner and leader.
Don’t miss this one!
Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsors!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Restaurant Brands: https://www.restaurantbrands.com Use Promo Code RESTAURANTROCKSTARS to get 25% off most domains.
To build a powerful restaurant brand, you don’t need a Marketing Degree from Business School. You need imagination, creativity and an expert in your corner.
What do you want your guests to think about your place? What image do you want to present? Will your ideas lead to more business and positive reviews? How will you convince customers to come in the door?
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. I’m speaking with Stu Maloff, Founder of www.restaurantbrands.com, the premier restaurant domain name marketplace.
Whether you’re just starting your first location or you’re a veteran operator, you need a great restaurant domain name to complement a great restaurant website. You will likely want a .com domain, it’s what people expect. You certainly don’t want to lose business or traffic to your site because customers can't find you.
You want a web address immediately recognizable, on-brand and on-strategy. Your domain name should instantly tell the customer who you are and what you’re about, while piquing their curiosity. Ultimately your domain should drive business.
Stuart has over 1,000 restaurant-specific .com names. If you can think it, he probably has it. Even those most in demand and trending right now including: curbside, takeout, delivery, contactless, touch-less and even ghost kitchen names.
Need a domain for your place? You can reach out to him at stu@restaurantbrands.com
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
For more Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsors!
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Restaurant Brands: https://www.restaurantbrands.com Use Promo Code RESTAURANTROCKSTARS to get 25% off most domains.
I’ve watched several concepts thrive during the pandemic, but this one defies the odds with incredible growth during the peak of Covid.
Imagine opening 25 new locations while the pandemic is devastating much of our industry. If that’s not crazy enough, believe that these new franchise restaurant stores actually rang a 45% increase in grand-opening sales over those that opened pre-pandemic. There’s some powerful stuff going on behind the scenes, and you’ll hear all about it.
So listen on as this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast brings you Jodi Boyce, Executive V.P. of this hot concept called Teriyaki Madness. With over 100 stores across the country and new stores in Canada and Mexico., this may be your next opportunity.
The success model centers around their mobile App to order for pickup, delivery or catering. Next, it's the healthy (or not) menu where you choose bowls, apps and mouth-watering sides… and don’t forget the teriyaki.
We’ll be talking:
- The Keys to their success
- The model’s Training Philosophy
- Powerful Rewards program
- Marketing that includes news and special offers to your Smartphone
- What they look for in new Franchisees and more
See why Fast Casual and Entrepreneur Magazines are calling this franchise restaurant concept one to watch.
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Set Up A Free Consult: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Thank you to our show sponsors:
Dawn Professional: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Restaurant Brands: https://www.restaurantbrands.com Use Promo Code RESTAURANTROCKSTARS to get 25% off most domains.
Many of us, myself included have been relentless in getting our fair share of all the free government money that keeps on coming. So you want to pay close attention and hang on every word in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, as there is yet more free money falling from the sky.
I’m speaking with Matthew Patrick, Founder & President of “Whirks” and Patrick Accounting and he will tell all on how your business can qualify for a sizable sum from the new Employee Retention Tax Credit or ERTC.
You’ve already paid hefty payroll taxes in 2020 and now in the new year, so why not get a good chunk of it back direct from the government now?
For 2020, you can qualify for 50% of wages paid to each employee (plus health care benefits) up to a maximum of $5,000, and for the first two calendar quarters of 2021 (and maybe later quarters), this increases to 70% or a maximum of $7,000 per employee.
We’ll also tell you what to do if you started a new business last year or purchased one.
Yes, there are a few conditions, so make sure you listen all the way through.
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our sponsors:
GoTab Contactless Dining System: https://about.gotab.io/
Dawn Professional Dish Liquid: https://pgpro.com/en-us/brands/dawn-professional/manual-pot-and-pan-detergent-original
Imagine building a brand almost as recognizable as McDonalds.
Sweet right?
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants and I speak with Mark Kelegian. Mark is the President and master brand-builder of Randy’s Donuts. Randy’s is a super-powerful brand that is both pandemic-proof and iconic. This brand is also internationally recognized and growing fast!
Listen or watch as we discuss:
- The history and future of this iconic donut shop brand
- How Randy’s has grown and is opening new locations despite the pandemic
- The importance of consistency in product quality, customer service and vibe
- Randy’s staff training philosophy and best practices
- The Randy’s Donuts Franchise Opportunity
Be sure to watch the episode if you would like to “virtually” experience 58 mouth-watering varieties of donuts!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to GoTab for sponsoring this episode. For Free Activation of GoTab Curbside Pickup & Delivery text ROCKSTARS to 213-474-3925. https://about.gotab.io/
What if you could offer your customers the ability to open their own tabs, split checks, pay and leave tips using contactless technology at their leisure. This is the future of restaurant service and true hospitality.
In today’s episode, I’m speaking with Tim McLaughlin, CEO of GoTab and a fellow restaurant owner. Tim’s come up with a way to put control in your customer’s hands leaving your service staff more time to serve & sell and less time swiping cards.
Listen as we discuss how GoTab helps your restaurant put Hospitality First:
-
1 on 1 communication and personal interaction with the customer
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Receive guest feedback and address any issues that arise before the customer leaves the restaurant
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Pay and go feature from the customer’s device that provides larger check averages & tips
-
GoTab works with your POS or as your new POS system
GoTab is built by restaurateurs for restaurateurs. With this podcast, they’re offering Free Activation for Curbside Pickup & Delivery. To get the offer, Just Text ROCKSTARS to 213-474-3925.
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant!
Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The sands of running restaurants keep shifting. The minute you think you’ve made a key-pivotal decision, the rules change again, and it’s back to the drawing board.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars podcast, my friend and industry pro Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants interviews me on buying a restaurant just before the pandemic, the challenges we continue to face and our strategies to succeed.
“From One Operator to Another”, I’ll be sharing my pivots, hurdles, missteps, small victories and key-learnings . I call it “Street Fighting” and we’re all in it together.
I believe your restaurant needs Just “3” Things to get past this crisis and emerge stronger than before.
Why not focus your attention on how to:
- Control your Costs & Maximize Profit
- Train & Develop your “Dream Team” Staff
- Market & Build Intense Customer Loyalty
It’s time to work “ON” your restaurant now to not only survive but find true success and peace of mind. It’s just around the next corner.
And many thanks to the sponsor of today’s episode GoTab. They’re offering Free Activation for Curbside Pickup & Delivery. To get the offer, Just Text ROCKSTARS to 213-474-3925.
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant! Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to GoTab for sponsoring this episode. To get Free Activation for Curbside Pickup & Delivery Text ROCKSTARS to 213-474-3925
I’ve always believed a great restaurant website brings the food, drinks and experience to life for the customer and draws them in.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Tony Darden and Ted Beaman of a red-hot burger joint called Mooyah www.mooyah.com! I’ve always believed this business is all about entertainment, and these guys bring that showbiz approach to their customers.
Listen on as we talk about their “Lifestyle Burgers”. Not only can you get double decker Certified Angus Beef, but also 100% fresh Vegan burgers, Paleo burgers, Keto, Low Cal and Gluten Free choices on top of the fries and shakes people are craving.
We’re going to talk about their pandemic challenges and pivots:
- Digital Menus
- “Give-back to the community” fundraising
- Staff Training approach
- Rewards Program
- Delivery & Catering
- Their hot Franchise Opportunity
and so much more.
Don’t miss this one.
Now go out there and Rock YOUR Restaurant Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Free 30 Min Consult: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
If you’re a sports fan, you probably like sports bars. Before the pandemic, you’d enjoy gathering with friends sharing beers and great food watching incredible victories and heart-wrenching defeats. It was a weekly ritual that suddenly came to a screeching halt.
Today I’m speaking with Geo Concepcion the CEO of Greene Turtle, a once fast-rising chains of sports bars. He had a thriving business with multiple locations and hundreds of employees, then out of the blue he was forced to shutter locations and furlough hundreds of employees. This episode is all about rebuilding a brand.
It’s so easy to take business for granted when things are going well. What are you doing now to not only survive Covid, but come out stronger in 2021?
The learnings are in this episode
Listen as we discuss:
- Pivoting from an in-house experience to Take-Out
- Rebuilding consumer confidence to re-open stores
- Community based goodwill that’s growing sales
- A powerful rewards program that drives business
- Why high-level guest service, company culture and staff training are essential
And best advice for operators on what to do next!
Now go out there and Rock your Restaurant! Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Free 30 Min Consult Call with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
If you want to run a restaurant and be like every other restaurant, go for it. If you want to build a brand, stay with us.
This is a powerful episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast. It's different and a bit unconventional, but stay tuned to learn how to dominate your competition by becoming “notorious” in your marketplace. You do this through great customer service.
I’m speaking with Mark Quinn & Mark Kinsley of “Dos Marcos” – They both run mattress companies; but the truth is, they are really customer service gurus! In fact, they even wrote the book about it! It’s called “Come Back to Bed… Attract More Foot Traffic and Make People Fall in Love with your Store”!
Listen as they dish on: - Either Creating a Culture, or Tolerating It! - The Emotion in your Business, you either have it or you don’t - Why customer’s life transitions are opportunities for transformations - Stories of your restaurant that light up Social Media and Online Reviews - How to create a category where your restaurant can be 1st
After hearing this episode, you’ll find yourself asking “Am I in the “Memory Making” business?
Don't miss a single minute.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com More About DosMaros: www.dosmarcos.co
During this pandemic and reduced consumer confidence providing a food delivery service to your customers is a must! But you’re probably thinking where to begin?
Well hold on, we’ve got you covered. In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with two guys who can set up your restaurant delivery service from soup to nuts. If you need vetted, insured drivers, they have it. If you don't have an “online ordering system”, they can set you up. If you haves some of the pieces, they can fill in what you need.
Joshua Kopel, fellow Michelin starred restaurateur and longtime friend of this podcast has partnered with Roger Avats, a tech wiz to create a turn-key food delivery service solution In-House Delivery.
Listen as we learn:
- How to inexpensively set up your in-house food delivery service
- How to save money, reduce delivery costs 25 – 50% and keep control
- How you can get your service up and running in a day or so
And Most Important, how to own your customer data as a powerful marketing tool.
Its all in this episode, don’t miss it.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More About In-House Delivery: www.inhousedelivery.com For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ For A Free 30 Min Consultation With Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
I’m a huge believer that training your staff to provide Superior Customer Service is “Job 1” for any business, especially restaurants. In the thousands of details in running your restaurant, nothing will build your business faster, nor have a greater impact on your profit and bottom line. This is more important now during the pandemic than ever.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Dr. Kelly Henry, a man who built his chiropractic practice into multiple clinics from the foundation of providing consistently exceptional customer service. Now, he has re-invented himself into a customer service coach and author of the book “Define and Deliver Exceptional Customer Service”, due out mid-January 2021.
Stay tuned as we discuss:
- Hiring for Attitude vs. Experience and teaching the rest
- Praising performance 4X vs. a 1-time reprimand
- How to transform Unremarkable restaurant service experiences
- Training staff to be consistently “Customer-Centric”
- The importance and power of the “AM Huddle”
And this biggie: How a 5% increase in customer retention can lead to up to a 90% Profit Increase! You’ll have to listen to learn how.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Connect with Dr. Kelly Henry: www.drkellyhenry.com Train Your Staff to Double or Triple Your Sales: http://bit.ly/SS01721 Schedule a Free Consult With Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
I own a breakfast restaurant and this pandemic has hit us hard! We’ve been forced to pivot several times since March. We’ve shrunk our menu, shrunk our staff, closed our dining room, opened it back up and turned ourselves into a Grab N Go market… all in the name of survival and future success. Government relief funds have been our Godsend and is giving us the chance to pivot again with an all-new concept for 2021.
So its appropriate that in this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking Robert Maynard, the CEO of a fast growing breakfast restaurant franchise chain called Famous Toastery. They’ve been hit hard by Covid as well, but they actually turned closing stores early in the crisis into a growth strategy for the future. This is not your granddad’s diner folks, but an innovative concept poised for significant growth in the segment now and after the pandemic. Robert’s a passionate company leader with lots of experience to share.
Listen as we learn:
-
How this franchise chain assessed Covid damage control and communicated best practices and strategy to its franchisees
-
The chain’s continued emphasis on good old-fashioned Customer Service where “Every Server is Your Server”!
-
The importance of operators knowing their critical numbers to take corrective action and dial in profits
-
The challenges and solutions of closing, re-opening and staffing back up
-
Technology for customer confidence, safety and convenience
-
Why now may be the right time to think about a new franchise
and:
What Famous Toastery is looking for in prospective new franchisees. If you’re intrigued head over to www.ownatoastery.com
Lots of nuggets and key-learnings in this episode.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For more restaurant resources: www.restaurantrockstars.com
Whether you’re a restaurant owner, chef or line cook, now may be the time to uplevel your kitchen talent. This pandemic keeps on keeping on, but you’re future in this business depends on your creativity, skillset and value to your employer.
So why not consider taking cooking classes online?
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Ken Rubin, Chief Culinary Officer of Rouxbe, the world’s leading online culinary school. Ken’s experience comes from top level management at Le Cordon Bleu, as well as the Natural Epicurian Academy of Culinary Arts.
You’ll hear all about Rouxbe’s world-class instructors, the extensive range of online culinary classes to take at your convenience, and even eLearning these skills in multiple languages.
Check out www.rouxbe.com and get inspired.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Imagine a teenage passion for cake decorating leading to a high-flying career opening and investing in numerous restaurants, consulting to top hospitality groups, and then just before Covid hit, opening a new wine bar and restaurant.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, I’m speaking with Lindsey Anderson, a top sommelier and now proprietor of UVAE Kitchen & Wine Bar in Chicagoland.
During these challenging times, we could all use a dose of best practices so Tune-In, listen and learn as Lindsey dishes on her decades of success.
We’ll hear how Lindsey: - became a top sommelier and wine expert - her inspiration to open a new food concept centered around wine tasting and pairings - how wine flights with shared plates, virtual wine dinners and a wine club are now Uvae’s competitive advantage - what she’s done and doing to pivot during Covid-19 including Virtual Wine Dinners and Brunch for 2, Uvae’s Wine Club and selling Retail Wine-related Merchandise
Stay tuned and don’t miss Lindsey’s “Whatever It Takes” approach to relentlessly succeed during the pandemic, including jumping in to the kitchen to cook and personally delivering to her customers.
She’s a real Restaurant Rockstar.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: www.restaurantrockstars.com
For those unfamiliar, Artificial Intelligence allows software to think like and interact with humans. This provides a great opportunity to optimize your restaurant marketing strategy. Listen to see how you can capture key information on your customers such as “how frequently they visit, their favorite menu items and even what they spend”. With text or email, Jerry shows how you can deliver powerful marketing promotions to your best customers or less frequent diners. Interestingly, iOrder can even make food & drink suggestions which raises check averages.
Jerry AbiogIn this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants and I are speaking with Jerry Abiog, the Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of iOrder, an artificial intelligence driven digital menu.
This platform works for Dine-In, Curbside Pickup or Delivery and offers contactless ordering and payment to keep your staff and customers safe. We understand the system speeds up service which allows you to serve more customers faster and turn tables quicker. So important with limited seating restrictions.
Listen to the episode and check out the Free Demo at www.iorder.menu
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ To Schedule A Free 30 Min Consult With Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
You have to tune in this week as I’m speaking with Max Sheets, an illustrious 30 year veteran of restaurant start-ups, major restaurant chains and restaurant franchising. From concept and menu development to finding the real estate, staffing, leading by example, critical numbers and all-important brand building, Max has achieved restaurant success! Here’s a true restaurant evangelist! I speak to some pretty amazing people on the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, but every now and then I’m blown away by an episode that has so many powerful nuggets and key-learnings that every operator can benefit from. Now he’s doing it again, starting a restaurant chain with a new fast-growing restaurant concept, a restaurant chain called ChickNMax. Even though we’re all in the midst of this crazy pandemic, it’s not slowing Max down. In fact, stay tuned and you’ll learn some powerful ideas and concepts to apply to your own operation. We’ll be talking about starting a restaurant including: • Investing in your people and developing your team to be the foundation of your business • Involving and encouraging everyone in decision making, as the next great idea can come from any anyone • How “Knowing the Numbers” will set you free • Communicating your Safe Practices to your customer • Doing good and giving back not only feels good, but comes back around in many ways, some unseen and so much more...including restaurant success with restaurant franchising. I was so inspired by Max in this episode and you will be too. He mentions that “There’s No White Flag in his Bag” and as you can see, he’ll never quit! Watch or Listen and then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger FOR MORE RESTAURANT RESOURCES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
How do you deal with negative online reviews? Before the days of Yelp and TripAdvisor many of us used comment cards and secret shoppers to obtain feedback, myself included. Sure these were ways to track customer satisfaction and even build a database, but there’s a better, simpler and more effective way.
Now your customers can bring issues to your attention digitally before they leave the restaurant and anonymously if they choose. Many customers are embarrassed to complain in person, but give them a way to tell you in a manner they choose and you’ll improve your operation and have a powerful competitive advantage.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Matt Selbie of www.opiniator.com. His system allows immediate customer feedback via mobile device with a digital comment card. Your staff take appropriate action, recover the situation. They will satisfy the customer, retain their loyalty and prevent negative online reviews!
Listen on as Matt demonstrates:
- Common restaurant problems or complaints frequently fixed
- Feedback through SMS, Voice or Web without needing an App
- Photo uploads of the issue
- Tracking staff actions and the end resolution
- Fixing safety and maintenance issues
and most of all, stop Negative Online Reviews before they happen!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Learn More About Opiniator: https://opiniator.com/
In this episode of the Podcast, my friend Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants and I are speaking to a restaurateur with the magic touch. Our guest is Nick Bogacz of Caliente Pizza & Draft House. Nick is building a successful restaurant empire with street smarts, gut instincts, proper systems and a flair for promotion. Firstly, Nick will share his key learnings. Secondly, he will share his thoughts on running profitable restaurants during the Covid Crisis. I don’t know about you, but this pandemic continues to turn restaurant businesses upside down. That being said, you will be happy to know, he has some answers. To be specific, Nick is going to share: • How To Run a business, Not A Restaurant • The Specific Systems Your Restaurant Needs Right Now • How To Motivate,Train & Incentivize Your Staff To Perform And Build Your Business • How To Implement Proper Cost Controls and Maximize Profits • The Importance of Implementing Marketing Hooks That Set Your Restaurant Apart From The Competition
By sharing his wisdom with us, Nick is truly sharing the Secret Sauce as to how he made millions running profitable restaurants. Don’t miss it! Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ More About Nick & Caliente: https://pizzadrafthouse.com/
From time to time, our restaurants need a makeover, a fresh new look and furniture makes the biggest splash. It’s not only greater comfort for your guests, but just the thing to transform your ambiance. Maybe now’s the time to think furniture while your dining room may still be idle or you’re looking to Up the “Wow Factor” in your place.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m once again with George Deeb, CEO of Restaurant Furniture Plus. They’re the largest online source of restaurant, hotel and hospitality furniture on the planet.
Listen on as we talk:
-
Floor plans and how much furniture you need (don’t forget to order enough once the seating and spacing restrictions are lifted)
-
Durability, functionality, materials and style to fit your atmosphere
-
Current trends and timeless styles that will still look great years down the road
-
Over 10,000 commercially available products vs. custom manufactured furniture to your specs
-
And of course lead times and budgets… no matter your budget, George can help.
Find what you’re looking for at www.restaurantfurnitureplus.com
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
I get to speak to some pretty fascinating people in this industry and I love talking shop. its amazing how much we can keep learning from others who share our passions, our challenges, our pain and out triumphs.
In this week’s episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Elizabeth Blau of Honey Salt in Las Vegas. Elizabeth is highly acclaimed as a 30+ year veteran restaurateur, a James Beard nominee, Judge on “Iron Chef America”, as well as in-demand consultant. Interestingly, she is also widely credited as the person who transformed Las Vegas into the “Celebrity Chef” destination that it’s now known for.
Listen on as we discuss:
-
Elizabeth’s amazing backstory, some of her early culinary influences and amazing people she’s worked with
-
How she manages eight restaurants in both Canada and Las Vegas
-
Her philosophies on training, staff performance and the customer experience
-
Pivoting during Covid-19
-
The “Keys” to restaurant success both now and in the future after the crisis
as well as Elizabeth’s work with the “Women’s Hospitality Initiative” and “Delivering with Dignity”, a meal delivery service to the homeless.
So much to learn, so much inspiration…. Don’t Miss it!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
These are crazy times and no-one knows what the future holds.
This is precisely why you should take control, plan for your future and the future of your business.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast I’m speaking with Ashley Micciche, the CEO of True North Retirement Advisors. You may or many not be ready to retire due to Covid or other reasons, but this show is really all about how you can protect and grow the value of your business now during this pandemic.
Ashley will explain:
-
Why now is the time to plan for the future
-
What type of business planning is most essential
-
Perfect timing to transfer ownership of a family business to the next generation
-
Employee Ownership opportunities and the process to do so
-
How a strategic acquisition can accelerate business growth
and
- How your business can protect itself, its employees and investors if you or other owners die or become disabled.
You’ll want to stick around for the entire episode as Ashley also shares a way you can “Value your business in just 10 Minutes”
For more information go to: https://truenorthretirementadvisors.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
FOR MORE RESTAURANT RESOURCES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
SET UP A FREE CONSULT CALL WITH ROGER: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Long before the crisis hit, drive-thru’s changed the way restaurants served their customers. The opportunity is now greater than ever to take the standard drive-thru up a notch or two with customer safety, convenience and entertainment paramount. It’s time to work “ON” your business, not just to survive this crisis but to dominate your competition.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast fellow industry Pro Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants and I are talking to two guys who have revolutionized the “Drive-Thru” as we know it. Brett Gould and Kevin Bessy of “Humdinner.com” are two serial entrepreneurs disrupting the old normal. They share so many key-learnings about business, innovation and true competitive advantage.
Listen as we discuss:
-
True contact-less multi-lane drive-thru operations
-
“Menutainment” that brings customers back again and again
-
Powerful marketing insights and customer data from Artificial Intelligence
-
Consumer safety from UV light radiation on all contact surfaces
-
Increasing sales and cutting labor in a single location versus the expense of new locations
... and the lifelong knowledge of two ingenious entrepreneurs.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
If you have a concept your customers love, this might be the time to think about expanding your business.
Covid has hit us all really hard, but never perhaps have we had more time to focus on improving our business and even growing it. This is not just a survival story, but a way forward to build true success and a lasting legacy.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m excited to be talking to Anthony Leone, a veteran operator with vast experience with some of the most-recognized and leading chain concepts. Now he’s helping others develop their concepts into viable and lucrative franchise opportunities.
In this episode, we’ll cover soup to nuts:
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The Franchise process and where to begin
-
What concepts translate best to a franchise model
-
The importance of “Systemizing” your existing business before you start a franchise
-
The Legal ins & outs and how to save yourself lots of money in attorney fees
-
Necessary training the Franchisor needs to provide to new franchisees
-
How to determine the Price of a franchise, Royalties, Purchase Agreements, etc.
-
How to enforce standards and best practices across your franchise model
and so much more.
Anthony is a wealth of knowledge on multi-unit operations and takes a hands-on approach with each client, guiding them through the entire franchise process.
If this idea intrigues you and you’re interested in taking the next step, learn more at : www.qsrfranchisedevelopmentgroup.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
More Restaurant Resources: www.restaurantrockstars.com
Covid-19 has turned all of us upside down, but it’s also been a huge opportunity… a time to flesh out your business, tighten things up, make necessary changes and pivot to a more profitable business model.
Many of you are trained chefs and culinarians. Possibly you’ve lost your cooking gig, or your hours have been reduced and you need a new opportunity. What to do?
Listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. I’m speaking with Chef Donna G, Founder of the Personal Chef Network.
Donna’s a graduate of the demanding “Le Cordon Bleu” Cooking School, and she has found a new opportunity not only as an in-demand Personal Chef herself, but as an inspiration and trainer teaching others how to start their own personal chef business.
There’s a huge demand right now for personal chefs in private residences, catering and special events all across the country.
We’ll be talking all about:
-
How to start your own new business
-
What client’s are looking for
-
Menu Development and special requests
-
What you need to know to keep yourself and clients safe during Covid
-
How to create awareness, find clients and market yourself
and much more.
Why not check out this opportunity at www.thepersonalchefnetwork.com
Now go out there and ROCK your Restaurant!
Roger
More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Schedule A FREE Consult Call with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
About a year ago I was fortunate to interview Joshua Kopel for the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. At the time. Joshua had opened an incredibly successful bar on the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame and had opened a Michelin-Rated restaurant in LA called “Preux & Proper”.
Amazingly Joshua had limited experience, but his charismatic personality and sincere passion for hospitality were the keys to his success. He inspired a team to create a dining experience unlike any other, in arguably one of the most competitive and trendy restaurant cities on the planet. As if that wasn’t impressive, he achieved a Michelin rating and many esteemed accolades.
After all the blood, sweat and tears building a restaurant and brand; Covid hit and much like the rest of us, he was forced to shut down his restaurant. It made little sense to re-open during this crisis when margins pre-Covid were stretched to the thin limit. Preux & Proper has a bright future someday down the road, but for now as any dynamic entrepreneur would do, Joshua has re-invented himself and his business.
Listen as we discuss: Why he created a new podcast How he saw a need in his own restaurant for an online reservation system which now helps other operators leverage Tech with a human touch How his company “Flo” provides a dedicated professional, well-versed in your operation to answer live phone, chat and text Booking reservations, group functions and online ordering seamlessly The future of this business post-Covid Joshua is offering Flo to 60 restaurants Free for 60 days. That’s an incentive to check it out here: www.justcallflo.com and yes, there is a bright side to the pandemic. You’ll have to listen through to find out!
Then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com Schedule a FREE phone consult with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Its no secret that customers are spooked… all this terrible news every day has them running for the hills and not your restaurant. But here’s the opportunity:
If you show them that you’re restaurant cares about their safety, follows all best practices and gives them a contactless experience, they’ll gain confidence and your business will grow.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Robbert Bregman from TableDuck, a company that has figured out how your customers can order from you from anywhere safely via Messenger Apps like “FB Messenger” or “What’s App”? Lots of people communicate with their friends and family all the time using Messengers, so why not with your restaurant.
Interestingly, TableDuck uses a “chatbot” as the heart of its technology. That’s a computer program that simulates a conversation with humans over the internet… Now, your customers can place their order and pay without contact for Dine-In Service, Delivery or Take-out or even get Room Service from a hotel. Pretty cool huh?
Here’s how it works:
1) Let your customers know about your Chatbot
2) Your customer selects a Messenger App and places their order with 10+ payment options
3) An automatic reply is sent to your customer
4) Paid orders come into your kitchen or bar through your POS system. No POS… no worries, the Chatbot still works and sends you the notification
5) You can also send customized promotions and special messages to your customers like: “Hey Roger its Friday night, would you like to order your favorite Burger”?
TableDuck has a Free Demonstration. You can check it out at www.tableduck.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For more restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com To schedule a free consult call with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Imagine learning the secrets of success from some of the world’s most recognized and powerful brands and then applying them to your business.
You can!
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I speak with Jill Raff of the Jill Raff Group. Jill brands herself as a “Customer Experience Strategist” and we dive deep into the true meaning of hospitality and paramount customer service.
Jill cut her teeth at an impressionable age shadowing her father in the family McDonald’s franchises, and was forever influenced by meeting and learning from Ray Krok himself. She went on to an impressive career first graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, then later working in the pastry kitchen at famous Harrod’s in London, followed by a Michelin Starred restaurant in Italy, and even appearing on the “Today Show”.
Listen on as we chat about:
-
Leading by Example and Empowerment
-
Providing “Celebrity Customer Experiences”
-
How restaurants can transform their teams and bring back customer confidence during the Covid Crisis
and so much more…
You’ll be especially inspired as Jill relates how to transform “Transactions into Interactions” and how to build powerful “Affinity” with your customers.
Service is the foundation of your business, and empowering your team to deliver truly personal exemplary service will be your greatest competitive advantage.
As a special bonus, Jill shares an infographic of telling survey results from the customer’s perspective, in hopes of driving more business to restaurants now as we ‘grow’ (not ‘go’) through this challenging time and beyond. In Jill’s words: “I hope restaurateurs can find value in learning how to rebuild trust by learning what’s most important to the customer, which is why my new course created to help restaurants now and beyond, is called Confident Customers Through Customer Experience.”
https://www.jillraff.com/survey-resource/
Now Go Out There and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger More Restaurant Resources: www.restaurantrockstars.com
Covid-19 blindsided us all and hit like a ton of bricks. Maybe your business was strong and things were good last February. Now a few months later, no-one knows when the roller coaster ride will end. Many of us have re-opened with limited service and restrictions. Just when we were starting to get back on our feet, the rules change and maybe you’re now being forced to close again as Covid is resurging in many states.
There’s a big lesson here. When business is good, it’s human nature that we take things for granted and ride the wave instead of planning ahead, systemizing our business, making it stronger and what I call “Bulletproof”.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with my good friend and fellow industry Pro, Jaime Oikle of RunningRestaurants.com Jaime had this idea to talk about what we can do now to not only survive, but put our business in the best position to really come out of this crisis and succeed big, so stay tuned.
The book “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson is a powerful analogy to this episode. It’s all about complacency when we’re sitting on a mountain of cheese (customers, business, profits, etc.). But when the cheese runs out and just a few crumbs are left; do we take action and boldly go find more cheese (the Pivot) to create a whole new approach to our business or do we accept defeat and walk away? Do we change our mindset for the future once we find new cheese?
Now’s the time to continue taking action. Now’s the time to strategize, plan, execute! Its all about the following simple systems to control your business and your future:
-
You’re Daily Break-Even so you know what days to open and what days you should close
-
Menu Engineering: Have you streamlined your menu to sell only what’s efficient and Most Profitable?
-
Are you taking regular Inventory and not to just to place your orders?
-
Do you know your true “Prime Costs”?
-
Are you using technology to lower labor cost and improve the customer experience?
Finally, here are two tips that can really move the needle for your business:
1) If you haven’t already done so, contact your insurance agent to report Loss of Sales and Lower Payroll. You’ll get a rebate on your premiums in advance of audit time.
and
2) As of late June, there are still PPP and EIDL funds available if you didn’t get in the first rounds of funding, so talk to your lender today.
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For More Restaurant Resources: www.restaurantrockstars.com Schedule a Free Consult with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars podcast, I’m speaking with Matthew Patrick, Principal of Patrick & Associates, a CPA firm specializing in the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans. We’re going to cover all the ins and outs of these programs, and most important how to maximize or get complete forgiveness for your PPP!
Listen on as we cover:
-
The different programs: PPP vs EIDL Grant vs EIDL
-
EIDL approvals are still coming
-
The favorable terms of these loans and how this has improved since you got your money
-
Initial challenges if you got money early with Round 1 or 2 and what’s happened since
-
Big Changes in the timing and use of funds with a lengthy extension
-
The complicated application and chances for forgiveness
and much more…
Best of all, if you haven’t yet applied for these bailout programs; as of this recording early in June, there was still money available. So our best advice would be to talk to your banker or lender now.
In the meantime, if you are challenged by all this, why not reach out to Matthew? He and his firm are standing by to help at www.patrickaccounting.com If you have payroll issues or questions, Matthew and his team are also standing by at www.whirks.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For more restaurant resources: restaurantrockstars.com
So many restaurants spend and spend on marketing hoping to make something stick! It’s really a shotgun approach dumping money out the window or throwing darts at a board. Problem is you don’t know what’s going to work unless you try, but unless everyone who walks in your door tells you why they came in, you’ll never know.
So today’s guest on the Restaurant RockStars Podcast is Matt Plapp of ROI Experts. He throws all that to the wind and gives you the straight skinny on marketing that really works. He knows as he’s been to the brink and back before building his company that now helps other operators explode their marketing programs, build effective lists and drive insane customer loyalty.
One of the coolest things we talk about is what Matt calls creating an “Emotional Connection” with the customer. Building that powerful loyalty is like money in the bank. Think of what the lifetime value of each customer is really worth if they become raving fans of your business and suddenly come in more often.
We’re going to talk about social media strategy, what to communicate, how often to communicate and special offers that bring in the crowds.
I’m working with Matt and his team right now at my new restaurant, so I’m speaking from experience.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More About Matt: mattplapp.com or roiexperts.net Learn More About More Restaurant Resources: restaurantrockstars.com
Never have we seen a crisis so devastating to our business, and never have we seen so many rally together to help however we can.
This episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast is all about an initiative to help those industry workers most affected. I’m speaking with Sean Weissbart, a NYC attorney specializing in setting up tax-exempt non profit organizations who has teamed with Danny Meyer of Union Square Hospitality Group, Daniel Boulud and Thomas Keller to create a 501 (3C) company raising funds for those in our business who need it most - our front line employees.
We’ll talk about:
-
the initial goals and framework for this charity
-
the obstacles and how they were navigated
-
who it will benefit and how
-
tax benefits and IRS exemptions
-
differences and overlap with the Paycheck Protection Program
and how this initiative can inspire any of us to create something similar or assist our industry in another way. We’re all affected by Covid-19, but the bright light is that through collective strength and willingness to lend a hand, good work continues to come to our industry.
Our business is based on passion, commitment, fortitude and shared strength. Sean’s passion also shines through his work with Ment’or, an organization inspiring and helping those culinarians who aspire to become leading future chefs. Together we can and will make a difference.
You can reach out to Sean at www.blankrome.com
Thanks again for tuning in and stay well.
Roger
FOR MORE RESTAURANT RESOURCES: WWW.RESTAURANTROCKSTARS.COM
The new normal is contactless ordering & payment. If you have pivoted or are ready to pivot your business model to take out, curbside pickup and delivery, here’s a solution.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Laurent May, leader of READY. Ready is a virtual ordering system that allows your customer to view your menu digitally, place the order and pay without cash virtually anywhere they are. They can even split checks.
Customers can also leave online reviews and even set up their own “Ready Profile” to earn loyalty program rewards at your restaurant. Think of it this way… waiting customers cost your restaurant money, mixed up orders costs you money, bad reviews cost money. It's all about hospitality, convenience and safety
If you want to learn more, you can check out Ready at this link: https://readytopay.com/restaurantrockstars They are offering a Free Demo and from what I understand they are currently waiving standard service fees.
Now’s the time to work “ON” your business to be better after this Covid crisis is over.
Go out there and ROCK your Restaurant! Roger
For more restaurant resources: www.restaurantrockstars.com
The Government has all but shut us down, and returning to days of normal is still out of sight for most of us. We’re scrambling for a new plan and that plan keeps shifting day by day. What to do next?
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast I speak with George Deeb of www.restaurantfurnitureplus.com George and I originally recorded an episode on all things furniture for your operation (stay tuned for this in a future episode), but then the crisis hit and George sent out a Covid-19 Survey to 30,000 restaurants and the results are telling.
We’ll talk about how the industry has been hit:
-
From the largest international chains to single location everyday operators
-
Sales Declines and some surprising upswings
-
Closings and Pivots
-
Relief Loans and Grants
-
The critical numbers you need to know
and of course how this industry is rallying together to not only support each other, but what to expect for the future.
If your restaurant has been closed and you’re planning for a re-opening, its a whole new way of doing business.
Stay tuned and stay well.
Roger
MORE RESTAURANT RESOURCES: WWW.RESTAURANTROCKSTARS.COM
This crisis has hit us all like a ton of bricks, and we can either cry in our soup (pardon the pun) or kick some A!
Now that our restaurants are either idle or we’re offering limited service, we have a choice. We can either muddle along and hope for the best when things get back to more of a normal, or we can create a whole new game plan today and improve your operation for greater efficiency and greater profit! Chances are you may have more time now than you did pre-Covid to actually plan and execute. So listen up.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, Tony Smith the CEO and Co-Founder of Restaurant365 will show us an All-in-1 system for your restaurant that consolidates your Accounting, Inventory, Scheduling, Sales Reporting and Manager Logs, so you have all this info at a moments glance at your fingertips… Its also Cloud-based so you can see it from anywhere. The on boarding is straight forward and its a quick learning curve.
I met Restaurant365 at the NRA Show a few years back and I was really impressed with their demo. The product has only improved since then with greater capabilities. You can get your own Free Demo at www.restaurant365.com
Our industry is really rallying together to help each other through this challenge with special offers and concessions to get us all back on our feet. Restaurant365 is offering its “Smart Labor & Scheduling” system to any restaurant FREE for 4 months, plus the value-added of free informational webinars, a “Break-Even Calculator (I’m a huge fan of that one) and consultations with Restaurant365 partners.
Listen on then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
More Tools & Resources at: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
RockStars: The fact is that you need technology to run an efficient and profitable restaurant operation, and everyday, new software is coming on the market. Whether you are a veteran, brand new or aspiring operator; Its our goal at the Restaurant RockStars podcast to bring you new technologies so that you can make an informed decision for your hospitality business.
LATE BREAKING NEWS: Since this episode was recorded, Covid-19 has turned our industry upside down forcing us to pivot our operations. Although this episode is about Lavu POS, Lavu has itself pivoted to focus on MenuDrive, their online ordering and delivery platform. Make sure to listen to my addendum to this episode to hear how quickly you can integrate MenuDrive to your existing POS and be up and operating with it in as little as one hour! Go to www.menudrive.com Also of note: Lavu has waived hosting fees for customers shut down by the virus.
At the heart of your operation is of course your Point of Sale system. Interestingly, modern systems are now integrating other value-added applications such as Inventory control, payment processing, online ordering, etc…
There are so many features, options and choices to look at, so with today’s episode, we’re not just bringing you another system, but an objective opinion from a software and POS expert who tells all from your perspective.
Its all about mobility which enhances convenience for staff and customers. With order taking and payments on the fly, service speeds up along with volume of customers you’re able to serve. With a full management suite; inventory control, payment processing, online ordering are all possible with just one system.
Today’s guest is Saleem Khatri, CEO of www.lavu.com Saleem and I will discuss what’s most important for an operator looking to upgrade from an older system to the latest technology or for those seeking their first system to do it all.
If you Click on the URL above, Saleem provides a Free Demo to see for yourself how Lavu can help your operation.
Now go out there and Rock your Restaurant!
Roger
Show Notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/audio/episode-202-an-objective-view-of-modern-pos-systems/
This crisis is turning our industry upside down, and we are pivoting almost daily to stay in business and stay relevant with our customer.
What every restaurant needs right now is to notify, communicate and keep the customer informed as to the status of your business.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Tasso Roumeliotis, the founder of NUMA, a virtual business answering service. Tasso shows us how this technology can represent your brand and be an extension of you and your management team, even if you’re not in the restaurant.
Numa works with any existing phone line, computer or tablet to communicate via automatic phone and text messaging:
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Hours of Operation
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Menu Updates
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Delivery Options
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Text Order Taking
and even answer Frequently Asked Questions, as well as personalize your business and your brand amazingly through Artificial Intelligence technology. The Numa App also alerts you of incoming texts and voice mails so you can filter messages, prioritize responses and change your messages remotely in real time from anywhere.
Make sure you listen to Tasso’s “free Lifeline” offer in the episode and see how Numa helps at this link: https://www.numahelps.com/how
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
For more Restaurant Tools & Resources check out: www.restaurantrockstars.com
RockStars…this is it, our BIG 200th Episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast and it comes at a most CHALLENGING time.
This crisis is unprecedented and the worst disaster to ever hit our industry. The Stats are staggering: Hundreds of Billions of Dollars Lost, Millions and millions of our employees out of work and worst of all, complete uncertainty for the future. When will we be able to re-open our restaurants? Will there be a crush of business, or will it take time to get back to normal? No-one has the crystal ball.
But, one fact is clear. Now is the time to put your business systems in place. To give yourself a fighting chance not just at survival, but true success. Greater than before the crisis, much greater than business as usual.
With me today are leading food industry professionals from two broad-line distributors… partners that care about relationships, about providing service and value-added to customers and most important, sharing their decades of experience and hard-won knowledge. This episode is all about what you can do Now for your business while things are idle or slower than usual.
Roundtable Participants: David Ross, CEO of HillCrest Foods, Anthony Hamilton, Dir. of Marketing & Sales/HillCrest Foods, Luke Labree Chief Marketing Officer for Dennis Paper and Food Service, as well as Timothy Labonte, Executive Chef for Dennis Paper & Food Service.
We’ll be covering:
- The importance of Inventory, calculating your Prime Cost & Daily Break-Even
- Profit Planning for the future
- Statt Training, Development, Recognition & Rewards
- Cross-Training staff for greater coverage and flexibility
- Social Media and asking for Positive Online Reviews
- Staying relevant and top of mind with your customers and followers during the crisis,
- Equipment Preventative Maintenance
This is a hot episode all about Best Practices while closed or offering limited service.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
MORE RESTAURANT RESOURCES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
This situation is unfathomable and it’s constantly shifting. Every minute, there’s new information, new challenges and lots of uncertainty. No one knows what will happen next or how long before its over.
Now’s the time to take action… to think your business through. To protect yourself, your employees, your customers, your business.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, my friend and fellow industry colleague Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com will lead us through a panel discussion focusing on what’s happening right now… loss of business, being forced to close either voluntarily or due to civic mandate, ideas on how to pivot your business, financing options, what your staff can do if hours are lost or they’re laid off and so much more.
You know that you have to think this through and that systems may be your salvation. You absolutely Must know your Daily and Weekly Break-Even Number! You must make informed decisions based on your numbers and current and future customer traffic counts. If you decide to pivot and offer door to door delivery service, will you offer this for free or charge? Will you only accept credit card payments by phone to avoid handling cash? What are the liabilities if your staff do the deliveries?
If you do “Grab N Go”, will you serve the customer or allow self-serve? Will you do curbside pickup and how will you handle the logistics?
Then there’s the fear of loss of business and being able to pay your bills. Which vendors should take priority? Are payment plans an option with some vendors? Are you able to apply for a line of credit with your bank? Can you ask for loan concessions to ease the burden of monthly payments?
Listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. It will give you lots of actionable ideas and thought provoking action to make your best decisions.
Jaime and I wish you all the best and luck moving forward. We’re all in this together, we’re a strong and resilient industry and we will persevere.
Stay with us and stay strong.
Roger
LEARN MORE ABOUT RESOURCES THAT COULD HELP YOU STRENGTHEN YOUR BUSINESS POSITION: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
We’re all looking for a Marketing Edge… one that not only drives business, but builds your Brand!
Sometimes it’s elusive and we brainstorm endlessly and scratch our heads, but sometimes like a bolt of lightning the idea is right there in front of us.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast I’m speaking to Anisha Blodgett of Powerhaus Pizza. She set out to start a health & wellness business, Not a restaurant! Funny how the stars aligned and her brainchild became a wholesome, holistic and organic eatery featuring pizza, salads, smoothies and other “Good for You” treats. Not only that but her choice of location perfectly aligns with her youthful, health-conscious customer.
There are so many learnings and “key-takeaways” in this episode. We’ll talk about staff on boarding and training, catering and other profit centers, brand-building and the importance of community service and giving back to those who support your business.
This is how to start a restaurant and how to run a successful restaurant business.
Listen on then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More About How to Maximize your Restaurant’s Sales + Profits: https://restaurantrockstars.com/ Set Up A Free Consult Call With Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
The Bar is the “One” place in your restaurant where you can really make money. Labor dollar for dollar and for the amount of time it takes to pour a drink versus preparing a menu item, your bar provides serious profit.
You want to fill your bar all day long day in and day out. Problem is, most restaurant and bar owners are Not maximizing their Marketing Firepower!
Well in this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast I’m speaking with Nick Fosberg, a bar and restaurant marketing Guru and a multi-unit owner/ operator himself.
Stay tuned and Listen to Nick to find out:
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The Most Effective Promotions to Attract New Customers in 2020
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What most owners do for marketing and Why it Doesn’t Work!
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The How & Why of List Building and Lead Generation
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The power of what he calls the “Viral Offer Promotional Campaign”
We also discuss the Pros & Cons of “Discounts”, how to strategize a discount without diminishing your brand or the value of your products and the Profitable ways of Advertising your promotions this year.
Don’t miss this episode and so many more immediately actionable takeaways for your operation.
Now Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant or Bar!
Roger
LEARN MORE ABOUT RESTAURANT ROCKSTARS RESOURCES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
HOW TO START A MUG CLUB: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/how-to-start-a-mug-club/
I know what you’re thinking… “how can all natural, fresh and sustainable food still make money for my restaurant”? Yes, its true that it is becoming harder and harder to find a balance between healthy operating practices and profitability, but my guest today may change your mind.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast I’m speaking with Chef Ali Gonzalez, a man who has dedicated 30 years to his passion for culture, tradition and fresh-crafted food from scratch by using natural resources. Chef Ali has been on a decades long quest to fix what’s broken in the restaurant industry. As a Chef, Coach and Mentor Ali has run restaurants, hotels, catering companies and even cooked for the movie industry.
We’re going to speak to positive change through sustainable initiatives and best practices in your kitchen and restaurant. Follow us as we discuss:
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A mindset of operating intentionally
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Menu development with a holistic environment friendly approach
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A sustainable strategy for your operation
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Motivating and retaining employees during this labor shortage and so much more
Chef Ali’s mantra is “Great Ideas Start at the Table”!
Now Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn how to make restaurant WAY MORE PROFITABLE: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/restaurant-finances-101/#tab-description
Learn how to DOUBLE YOUR RESTAURANT SALES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/sales-stars-server-training/#tab-description
Learn how to Start & Run A SUPER POPULAR Restaurant with HIGH PROFITS: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/the-restaurant-academy/#tab-description
Set Up A FREE CONSULT CALL with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
If you’re thinking about freshening up your restaurant with a makeover or if you’re starting a brand new place, you have to listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast.
Today I’m speaking with a 30 year veteran designer in the hospitality and food service space. Its incredible! Lu Schildmeyer of LU S Design Associates has designed over 700 restaurants, 400 bars and 1500 food service facilities.
We’ll be talking the basics of lighting design, materials and finishes. More importantly, you’ll get the lowdown on the importance of traffic flow, acoustics, your menu, efficient kitchen design and complying with building and life-safety codes. Lu has the talent and experience to achieve great design without breaking the bank.
You’ll also learn how great design can increase profit, cut food waste and reduce labor.
Head over to: www.lusdesignassociate.com for great ideas, testimonials, Lu’s past projects and his other services and while you’re at it, why not connect with Lu on LinkedIn.
Now Go Out There and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn how to make restaurant WAY MORE PROFITABLE: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/restaurant-finances-101/#tab-description
Learn how to DOUBLE YOUR RESTAURANT SALES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/sales-stars-server-training/#tab-description
Learn how to Start & Run A SUPER POPULAR Restaurant with HIGH PROFITS: https://restaurantrockstars.com/product/the-restaurant-academy/#tab-description
Set Up A FREE CONSULT CALL with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Anyone can market a business, but few can build an “Unstoppable Brand”!
What’s the difference?
Passion, inspiration, creativity, commitment!
A Brand represents your customer’s image, perception and opinion of your business. Do this right and you’ll create a lasting legacy.
There are so many aspects to Brand Building… logo, colors, font, ambiance, uniforms, signature dishes and drinks and theatrics… yes, theatrics. Don’t forget this business is all about Entertainment. You’re in business to create experiences for your customers that will bring them back again and again and more importantly spread the word.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Meg Prejzner a brand strategy guru who’s the Founder and CEO of Hackett Brand Consulting.
We’ll talk about the key elements of a powerful brand, what to do and how to get there. Not only is Social Media critical today for every operation, but listen on as we discuss the power of “Influencer Marketing”.. that is creating an army of passionate brand ambassadors for your business.
And don’t forget the importance of your staff who are the foundation of your operation. Train them well, recognize and reward them, build a strong culture and watch them build your brand and business. Visit hackettbrandconsulting.com to reach out to Meg and for lots of brand-building ideas and inspiration
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Schedule a free 30 min consult with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Learn More about our Courses on Restaurant Finances, Server Sales Training & How To Start and Run A Super Profitable Restaurant: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantrockstars/ Follow Us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RestaurantRock1
Think what would happen if you had a fire in your restaurant. You might be insured, but would you lose your business to the competition while you remodeled or even rebuilt?
Do you think your staff would stick around and wait for you to reopen or would they find jobs with the competition? This is scary stuff, but statistics show it happens. Don’t let it happen to your restaurant!
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Michael Crafton the CEO of NELBUD. They’re one of the Nation’s largest providers of kitchen exhaust hood cleaning… the place where most fires start. We’ll be talking about simple fire prevention, the steps of quality and effective hood cleaning, the importance of compliance and the expectations you should have of your service provider.
Hoods should be cleaned at a minimum every six months and its quite a process. It needs to happen in the middle of the night while you’re restaurant is closed and your venting system can adequately dry. This means you’ve got to trust your service provider and their people while chances are your’e asleep at home. Thankfully, NELBUD offers full transparency and “Digital Documentation” of their entire service offering clients peace of mind that’s extremely rare these days. No wonder some of their more high-profile clients include “The White House”, “The Pentagon”, casinos in both Atlantic City and Vegas, as well as restaurants just like yours in 23 states.
Stay tuned because we’ll also be discussing Fire Suppression, Sprinkler systems, alarms and grease trap service. Just four more of those “Thousands of Details” you have to think about in running your operation. You can find Nelbud at www.nelbud.com and follow them on Instagram and Twitter @nelbud9
Listen on then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
We’re all inspired by those incredible entrepreneurial journeys. The vision, the dreams, sacrifices, hardships and victories. Ideas can come from anywhere and the next great thing may be around the next corner. In this case, its all about a drink you may want to serve in your operation.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m pleased to introduce you to Alejandro Russo, a young serial entrepreneur who found inspiration in a tropical place and counter to his intuition, took a chance by sharing “shots” with strangers in a bar. You’ll hear all about the passion and history of the “National Drink” of the Dominican Republic, creating the perfect recipe, staying authentic by producing it in the country, finding distribution and then creating a market in Chile and the United States. Alex calls his product “Vacation in a Bottle”!
We’re taking about a rum based drink called “MamaJuana” and if the name doesn’t catch you the flavor and taste certainly will. This is a centuries old elixir believed to have healing properties that contains honey, essences of tree bark and exotic spices.
Follow us on Alex’s journey to compete against the biggest Rum brands on the planet with massive marketing budgets in order to create a Global Brand and stay true to his inspiration. Major International Resorts and leading U.S. Restaurants are serving Candela MamaJuana. You may want to pick up a bottle or two to introduce to your customers.
This is an amazing story you’re not going to want to miss. Follow Alex and his rum on Instagram @DrinkCandela and at www.drinkcandela.com
Thanks for listening.
Roger
Could your restaurant be making more money? https://restaurantrockstars.com
Set up a free Consult Call with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation
You’ve probably all seen the film “The Founder” about how Ray Krok created the most powerful restaurant brand and franchise on the planet. Well in the film, you see its all about the “Systems”. You can’t grow a successful business without proven systems.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with a franchise expert who cut his teeth in several other most successful brands. Krispy Kreme, Auntie Annie’s Pretzels, Cold Stone Creamery… you’ve heard of these.
Berekk Blackwell is now the President of a fast growing concept called “Daily Jam”. Its a breakfast, lunch, brunch and specialty cocktail brand that’s refined its mission and now growing regionally and national with a franchise model.
Listen on as we discuss the foundation of any successful business:
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“Core Values” that lead to a motivated team that rise to the challenge to over deliver on the guest experience.
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Training philosophies and best practices
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Delivering “WOW Factor” across your operation
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Why Not taking regular inventory is like tearing up $100 bills in your walk-in
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Growing and sustaining Customer Loyalty and much more
I love talking with dynamic operators who are executing a laser-focused vision. If you’re serious about building an unstoppable brand and not just running a restaurant, don’t miss this episode. Its the only way to start and run a profitable restaurant, whether you’re satisfied with one location or want to create a chain legacy.
Follow the brand on Instagram @eatdailyjam If you’re interested in a Daily Jam franchise, go to www.dailyjamfranchising.com
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Set up a free 30 min consult call with Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
I’m always amazed at those dynamic hard-charging people that can grow a concept to multiple locations. It takes courage, fortitude, an unwavering vision, not to mention leadership to build a brand and maintain consistency and quality that’s on point.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Leslie Silverglide who’s the co-founder and CEO of a fast growing chain of healthy restaurants MIXT, offering a plant-forward menu that they call “Craveworthy”. Not only that, but the underlying mission of Leslie’s company is to lead the charge for sustainability in the restaurant business for a healthier world and planet. They’re also sourcing 100+ ingredients locally in their markets.
We’re going to talk about how to grow a brand, how to find great people, inspire and lead a team and best practices to keep the customer coming back for more. On top of that, their average staff retention is 3 years. I was astounded to hear that MIXT’s most loyal customers actually dine in the restaurants 21 times a month. That means customers are raving fans and of course you know that word of mouth is The Most Powerful Marketing in the restaurant business. You just know these people aren’t just dining at MIXT, they’re also spreading the word and praise on social media and the reviews are gold! This is what I call Affinity folks!
Listen up as this is the way to run a restaurant, increase restaurant business and build an unstoppable brand!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Schedule a Free Consult Call With Roger: https://restaurantrockstars.com/free-consultation/
Learn More about The Restaurant Rockstars Academy, Rock Your Restaurant Book & Sales Stars Server Training: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com
Payroll is a necessary detail with a huge impact on your bottom line, but it doesn’t need to be a challenge.
There are so many other critical details in running your operation, so let’s talk Profit, Convenience and Efficiency. Payroll processing has come so far beyond just time and attendance reporting and paying your employees.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Michael Splane an independent Consultant formerly of Heartland Payroll Solutions.
You’ll hear about a complete online suite of integrated services (P.O.S., Accounting systems and even Worker’s Comp) to help your business thrive and grow forward. Check out the Pre-Employment features like posting jobs, screening applications, scheduling and hosting interviews and even onboarding new staff all available online.
It helps to have an expert in your corner. You get one dedicated “point person” to handle all your needs plus on-demand access to H.R. professionals to guide your business on state and industry-specific labor laws. At some point, you may even want to set up a 401K plant or your team. Heartland does this too.
You probably already know Heartland for their payment processing solutions, now payroll is a natural extension.
Focusing on the critical details that have the biggest impact on your profit and success only makes sense. This is the way to run a restaurant and build your restaurant business.
Listen on then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Could your restaurant be making more money, reaching more people and offering better customer service? Check out the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Everyone’s says you need to Market your place on Social Media. Not only that, you need to know how to post, what to post and how often?
Today’s guest Mr. Erik Shellenberger is going to turn that idea upside down and tell us why Social Media Marketing has Lost its Effectiveness. I love Erik’s “Test Taking” analogy.
“Picture a room full of people all taking a test that nobody studied for. Everyone is copying off of each other’s paper so we end up with a bunch of different versions of the wrong answer. Everyone assumes their neighbor knows more than they do but it turns out everyone is shockingly uneducated. In today’s visual online world, presentation and aesthetics are more important than ever. If your business’s online presence was a Tinder profile, would you score a date? Or would you continue to live through endless uneventful weekends?”
This is what happens folks when you try to copy how your competition is marketing to the customer. Instead, you need to “THINK Like your Consumer”!
Google, Yelp and Tripadvisor are often the consumer’s first impression of your brand, especially in a tourist economy. Is your business dominating your competition? Have you not addressed your search engine ranking because you simply “show up” when you Google your own business? Do you think this is good enough? Not even close!
What works for your competitor’s brand could be worthless for yours. Erlk’s advice is to “Stop the copy/ paste madness and create your own plan on your own terms!”
Tune in to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast and get a whole new fresh approach on your marketing strategy. This is the only way to run a restaurant and bar.
Listen On!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Thank you to our show sponsors: Fountain: Fountain is your All-In-One Talent Platform built for hiring teams at scale. It’s “The Way” to find more quality candidates faster while reducing time to hire! Go to www.Fountain.com/Rockstars to get a Demo & Free Personalized Onboarding, a $500 Value just for becoming a new Fountain customer.
Restaurant 365: Restaurant365 is a cloud-based, all-in-one, restaurant-specific accounting and back-office platform that seamlessly integrates with POS systems, payroll providers, food and beverage vendors. It generates accurate real-time reporting and analysis in user-friendly dashboards, facilitating immediate, data-driven decision making. Restaurant365 eliminates manual, error-prone processes and is designed to help restaurant businesses grow with functionality that helps optimize labor costs, reduce food costs and increase revenue. Check out Restaurant 365 at this Link: www.restaurant365.com/rockstar
This is one of the most powerful interviews I’ve ever done. Every word inspires, motivates and lays a foundation for how we all should approach growing our restaurant business.
Passion, Vision and Leadership are the core elements that have led Sal Lupoli to the pinnacle our of our industry. From humble beginnings with the first Sal’s Pizza shop in Salem, New Hampshire, Sal has continually grown his brand with an emphasis on freshness, quality and service.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, we learn:
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How to scale one location to multiple locations across a region
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The loyalty and repeat business generated by Cross-Marketing locations
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Leverage, economies and additional profit that comes from a “commissary” production facility serving all locations
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The importance of owning your business real estate and controlling your destiny
and most important…
- How effective leadership and creating a company culture of opportunity, personal growth and rewards impacts the guest experience and drives the business forward.
This is how to run a restaurant, grow a brand and create a lasting hospitality legacy.
Listen on then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsors:
Fountain: Fountain is your All-In-One Talent Platform built for hiring teams at scale. It’s “The Way” to find more quality candidates faster while reducing time to hire! Go to www.Fountain.com/Rockstars to get a Demo & Free Personalized Onboarding, a $500 Value just for becoming a new Fountain customer.
Restaurant 365: Restaurant365 is a cloud-based, all-in-one, restaurant-specific accounting and back-office platform that seamlessly integrates with POS systems, payroll providers, food and beverage vendors. It generates accurate real-time reporting and analysis in user-friendly dashboards, facilitating immediate, data-driven decision making. Restaurant365 eliminates manual, error-prone processes and is designed to help restaurant businesses grow with functionality that helps optimize labor costs, reduce food costs and increase revenue. Check out Restaurant 365 at this Link: www.restaurant365.com/rockstar
The most challenging issue in the restaurant business today is the labor shortage. Finding, motivating and keeping a dedicated staff has most of us up at night wracking our brain for a solution.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Duncan Parker the founder of DineGigs. He is sharing with us what he calls the “Linked-In” for the Food Service Industry. It is a 100% FREE space for restaurants to post jobs and connect with talent for all positions. The web-based platform handles the process including all documentation, background checks, etc.. so you can take care of business.
Duncan has been the Executive Chef of one of the highest grossing boutique restaurants in the country and has won “Open Table’s” Top 100 restaurants in America, so he not only has a solution, but the street cred to back it up. Take a listen!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Show Notes:
Check out The Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsors: Fountain: Fountain is your All-In-One Talent Platform built for hiring teams at scale. It’s “The Way” to find more quality candidates faster while reducing time to hire! Go to www.Fountain.com/Rockstars to get a Demo & Free Personalized Onboarding, a $500 Value just for becoming a new Fountain customer.
Restaurant 365: Restaurant365 is a cloud-based, all-in-one, restaurant-specific accounting and back-office platform that seamlessly integrates with POS systems, payroll providers, food and beverage vendors. It generates accurate real-time reporting and analysis in user-friendly dashboards, facilitating immediate, data-driven decision making. Restaurant365 eliminates manual, error-prone processes and is designed to help restaurant businesses grow with functionality that helps optimize labor costs, reduce food costs and increase revenue. Check out Restaurant 365 at this Link: www.restaurant365.com/rockstar
It’s rare that one single “Hook” in a restaurant enterprise is so powerful that it defines the brand, and even rarer when that same hook inspires and drives that brand forward.
Walk into any location and what first catches your eye and your appetite is the huge glass display filled with endless varieties of dessert and not just any desserts, but the most amazing cheesecakes the world has seen. I can only be talking about the iconic “Cheesecake Factory” brand, growing internationally and a dominant player in most major US population centers. Personally I have visited numerous Cheesecake Factory locations, and in all honesty I have to say that each experience from the food to service to ambiance has been consistently enjoyable and memorable. Its also doesn’t hurt that this restaurant is a favorite of my kids, who have always been treated like VIPs at any of the locations we’ve dined in.
What has always amazed me, as it does most people is the extensive menu offering 21 pages and over 250 menu items and get this - all done from scratch! I have always wondered how they can inventory, prep, prepare and deliver consistency across the chain with reasonable ticket times in their very large and constantly busy locations. Turns out that colossal menu is a huge marketing tool, business driver and loyalty creator - something truly for everyone, especially when its hard to decide what type of cuisine the diner is looking for.
In today’s episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I am thrilled to speak with Mr. Donald Moore, the Executive Vice President and Chief Culinary Officer for the Cheesecake Factory.
Donald dishes on all the above and we also learn:
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How Leadership and Autonomy inspire and command performance and longevity among all employees
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The extensive training that leads to team success at all levels of the operation
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How new menu items are conceived, tested and proven to work in over 200 locations around the globe
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How a new Cheesecake idea makes the grade
and so much more.
Stay tuned folks as this episode is a biggie! Its the only way to run a restaurant with the eye on true hospitality and leaving no detail missed.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsors: Fountain: Fountain is your All-In-One Talent Platform built for hiring teams at scale. It’s “The Way” to find more quality candidates faster while reducing time to hire! Go to www.Fountain.com/Rockstars to get a Demo & Free Personalized Onboarding, a $500 Value just for becoming a new Fountain customer.
Restaurant 365: Restaurant365 is a cloud-based, all-in-one, restaurant-specific accounting and back-office platform that seamlessly integrates with POS systems, payroll providers, food and beverage vendors. It generates accurate real-time reporting and analysis in user-friendly dashboards, facilitating immediate, data-driven decision making. Restaurant365 eliminates manual, error-prone processes and is designed to help restaurant businesses grow with functionality that helps optimize labor costs, reduce food costs and increase revenue. Check out Restaurant 365 at this Link: www.restaurant365.com/rockstar
Don’t just run a restaurant, build a BRAND!
To do this, you need to follow a proven marketing strategy and one size does not fit all. How do you cut through all the noise and clutter out there vying your customer’s attention? The answers are in this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast.
Mr. Dan Westmoreland is the Vice President of Demand Gen at Fountain.com and a true marketing “Super Hero”. He’s worked with hundreds of business owners, and today will be giving you immediately actionable advice and proven ideas to build and move your brand forward.
Dan will share with us:
- The Most Common restaurant website Mistakes, the importance of SEO & how to DOUBLE web traffic
- How to gain traction with Email Marketing & How to build a List that really responds
- How to manage your Online reputation and how to turn around a negative situation to get the customer back
- How to use influencers and the most effective Social Media strategies
and so much more…
You might also find yourself challenged with the labor shortage right now. If you’re looking to hire at scale, check out Fountain (www.fountain.com/rockstars) You’ll get a Demo and Free Personalized Onboarding just for becoming a new Fountain customer - that’s a $500 Value.
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More about the Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to today’s show sponsor: Fountain is your All-In-One Talent Platform built for hiring teams at scale. Its “The Way” to find more quality candidates faster while reducing time to hire! Go to www.Fountain.com/Rockstars to get a Demo & Free Personalized Onboarding, a $500 Value just for becoming a new Fountain customer.
Imagine serving 1 Billion eggs, 340 Million Hotcakes and 326 Million cups of Coffee over 7 decades, serving generations of loyal customers and continuing to add locations.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mike Colonna, the President and CEO of Norm’s Diner, a Southern California institution that’s all about Value & Service.
We’ll talk about Norm’s unique concept, timeless architecture, great service and reasonable prices that continues to build this brand.
Mike will tell us all about the sheer number of staff needed to operate 24/7; and what it takes to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in 19 locations during the biggest labor shortage this industry has known. It’s all about leading by example, valuing and recognizing your people and of course effective training.
We’ll talk about Mike’s operating philosophies, best practices and how to maintain quality and consistency in all Norm’s locations.
This is how to run a restaurant, how to increase restaurant sales and how to build an unstoppable restaurant brand.
Now Go Out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn more about The Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Spunky lady has an idea, develops and tests prototypes, finds volume producer then takes on Coffee sweetener industry!
Wow guys, if you sell coffee and tea, even if you just love to drink coffee or tea, you have to listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. I’m speaking with Carolyn Barbarite, a very smart and savvy lady flying under the radar of the big corporations with her disrupting invention.
Its called “JavaMelts” and Carolyn calls it “Candy for your Coffee”. Its a dairy-free, non-GMO, vegan coffee and tea sweetener designed to slowly melt and enhance the flavor of the drink. Best of all, “JavaMelts” enhances the cup but doesn’t take away the nuance or flavor of the drink.
We’ll be diving deep into all the obstacles Carolyn’s overcome and keeps hurdling with her eye on the prize. Finding the product developer and testing endless samples, finding the right manufacturer, figuring out distribution, going on QVC and fielding all the amazing press following her company. This is a certified “Women Owned Company” and when you listen, you’ll be caught up in the excitement of chasing the American dream. The end lesson is persistence and tenacity which Carolyn has in spades.
I just purchased some “JavaMelts” for my new restaurant and I’m excited to introduce it to my customers. We sell lots of coffee, so Its potentially a brand-new profit center.
Check it out for yourself at www.javamelts.com
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Increase your Restaurant Sales + Profitability - Check out the Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com
Your restaurant needs a strong Social Media presence. You know this!
Problem is, very few of us operators really know what we’re doing here.. what to post, when to post, what platforms, who are we trying to reach?
Then there are the all-important Online Reviews.. Yelp, Google, Trip Advisor. I have to ask - Are you routinely monitoring what people are saying online about your operation, good, bad or otherwise?
Well, problem solved.
Today, I’m speaking with Mark Laux from OrderUp Social. He’s going to show us what’s really important, how to cut through the online clutter and make a powerful marketing impact.
This topic is one of the most important details in your restaurant. Don’t leave your online presence to chance.
Listen on to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast as Mark walks us through a fully turn-key automated system solution if you can’t be your own social media expert. This is how to run a restaurant folks.
Why not Go Pro right now? Mark is offering 10% OFF by using the Code “Rockstar” at www.orderupsocial.com
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
When you know how to optimize your sales and maximize your profits, the sky is the limit for where you can take your business. Learn more about the Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
In this most challenging business, I love speaking with dynamic restaurateurs who rose from humble beginnings to find amazing success. But as you all know, its not just about the triumphs, but the key-learnings, mistakes, pivots and ultimate decisions that make all the difference.
You’ve got to listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. I’m speaking with Mr. Joshua Kopel who’s running three Los Angeles concepts. His story goes like this: Young man from Baton Rouge travels to LA to find a unique concept to bring back to the South. Instead, he spends 20 years in LA bringing the soul-stirring flavors of Creole Cuisine to Angelenos.
From a humble start in seedy Hollywood, listen as Joshua takes us on a restaurateur’s journey of pivots, near-failure and ultimate success. We’ll cover it all. His Michelin-Star rated restaurant “Preux & Proper” heads the list of Josh’s other concepts “South City Fried Chicken” and Five O Four Hollywood.
Josh is a regular guy who reached out to me to share invaluable lessons for all of us passionate about this business. I’m so glad he did and agree that his wisdom, experience, approach to running restaurants and knack for hospitality will benefit us all.
If you’re a GM, veteran operator or just starting out, listen on as this is how to open a restaurant and how to run a restaurant. Find Joshua on Instagram @joshuakopel or at www.preuxandproper.com
Now Go Out There and Rock It!
Roger
This is a high fail business and knowledge is power. You don't know what you don't know!
Learn How to Optimize Your Sales + Maximize Your Profits THE RESTAURANT ROCKSTARS ACADEMY https://restaurantrockstars.com
We did a huge delivery business in our restaurants, but we also had the hassles of doing it all ourselves. This was long before technology revolutionized delivery. Now there are endless platforms that drive business to your door. Only problem is you probably need to use several to serve all your customers who have their favorite service. This means lots of tablets, clutter, confusion, lost orders, lost food, lost profit!
Well, now there’s a new game in town. In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Sterling Douglas the Co-founder and CEO of Chowly. These guys have eliminated all the tablets and instead pulled together what they call the “Tech Stack” - that is using your P.O.S. as the hub and seamlessly integrating Online Ordering, Inventory Management, Loyalty Programs, etc..
It’s amazing what Tech can do for your operation. Listen on as we talk about all the pain points that used to come standard with online ordering and how all this has changed. If you have been holding out on using technology in your operation, decide for yourself if this might be your solution on how to gain new sources of profit. This is how to increase restaurant sales and find yourself a new profit center.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
I always say “Don’t Run a Restaurant, Build a Brand”!
In this hyper-competitive and most challenging business, you need every advantage you can get and an effective targeted marketing plan is critical to your success. Why not learn from an expert marketer whose company is setting the country on fire with a fast-growing and very unique concept?
Tune in to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. I’m speaking with Anita Walker, the V.P. of Marketing for Fox Restaurant Group. Their hot brand “Flower Child” continues to open new locations offering “Healthy Food for a Happy World”. Flower Child’s menu features Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar Free, Vegan, Vegetarian and Paleo options in a happy, happening atmosphere.
We’ll be dishing on how this concept:
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builds awareness for their brand
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creates intense loyalty and repeat business
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sustains the marketing “buzz”
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leverages social media and even how they best respond and put a positive spin on Negative Reviews.
There are so many key-learnings and restaurant marketing ideas in this episode folks, you’ve got to give a listen. This is how to open a restaurant, how to run a restaurant and how to increase restaurant business.
Flower Child really stands out in the sea of chains out there. They even feature “Yoga Mat” parking!
Visit Flower Child: https://www.iamaflowerchild.com/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsor: HotSchedules HotSchedules is the #1 Staff Scheduling App on iTunes. See why over 170,000 restaurants in over 60 countries are using HotSchedules to save time, manage costs and grow their business. Get a FREE Demo at http://bit.ly/HSFREEDEMO
Just like pro sports teams that use video to analyze and coach their best players, you can improve staff performance and deliver superior customer service experiences through video data analysis.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Ken Bianchi of Hoptix 720. We’ll be showing you how this technology will:
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Give you Accurate Guest Counts
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Show you how long it takes your Host staff to greet your customers
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Monitor speed and quality of service at your tables
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Minimize staff errors and losses at your Point of Sale system
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Deliver immediate visual alerts on your smart phone
and provide video security monitoring against theft.
I’m a huge believer in daily training which improves dining experiences, online restaurant reviews and brings customers back again and again. Here is one solution on how to increase restaurant business and increase restaurant sales and profits. Check it out at www.hoptix720.com
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsor: HotSchedules HotSchedules is the #1 Staff Scheduling App on iTunes. See why over 170,000 restaurants in over 60 countries are using HotSchedules to save time, manage costs and grow their business. Get a FREE DEMO: http://bit.ly/HSFREEDEMO
I love talking shop with true industry professionals and when a conversation clicks, you just know there will be lots of key-nuggets and best practices shared.
In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Mr. Greg Plester from Core Hospitality.
We’re going to dive deep on the true meaning of Hospitality and great service. We’ll start with what makes a fantastic dining experience, the importance of daily staff training and the characteristics of a great General Manager.
Everyone’s heard the term “In the Weeds” and its far too common with service staff in restaurants. After all, you can’t Sell if you’re just surviving, and the customer experience will suffer. We’re going to give you some real solutions here.
Finally, we’ll discuss how you build real teamwork in any hospitality enterprise and dealing with unhappy guests. You’ve got to listen to Greg’s “L.A.S.T. model” to turn those negative situations around. Its as simple as Listen, Apologize, Solve & Thank!
Every restaurant can use a strong Management Team Organization Tool. I used one daily to plan meetings, record daily business levels, compare sales and information from prior dates and so much more. Check out Greg’s Leadership Daily Log at this link: http://bit.ly/2YVYdiA
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More about The Restaurant Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsor: HotSchedules HotSchedules is the #1 Staff Scheduling App on iTunes. See why over 170,000 restaurants in over 60 countries are using HotSchedules to save time, manage costs and grow their business. Get a Free Demo at http://bit.ly/HSFREEDEMO
This is a tough business and sometimes cash is tight. Seems like we’re always writing checks faster than the customers are coming in the door.
I get it. But why are you the last to get paid? What if you could take your Profit First?
You’re probably thinking… “wait a minute, how can I do that before I pay my operating expenses”? Well, “Profit First” just happens to be a whole new way of looking at your restaurant finances and it might seem a bit unusual at first, but its really smart and it just might change the way you run your business.
Forget about the usual accounting formula of Sales - Expenses = Profit. Instead, listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. I’m speaking with a restaurant professional that also happens to be a “Profit First Certified Master”. Kasey Anton will show us how you can actually increase your profit, grow your business and smile all the way to the bank.
Find Kasey at: https://sparkbusinessconsulting.com/
This one’s an eye opener and will demonstrate a new and very different way on how to run a restaurant.
Rock On! Roger
Check out The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thanks to our show sponsors:
HotSchedules: HotSchedules is the #1 Staff Scheduling App on iTunes. See why over 170,000 restaurants in over 60 countries are using HotSchedules to save time, manage costs and grow their business. Get a Free Demo at http://bit.ly/HSFREEDEMO
Square Payroll: Square handles all payroll withholding, payments and filing at no additional cost. Pricing is fair and flexible and scales with your business. Sign up for Square Payroll today at www.square.com/go/rockstar and get 3 free months of service!
With so many Point of Sale choices on the market, it pays to do your homework. So begin here.
I just bought a restaurant that uses the CAKE POS system. I’m told its built to meet the demands of quick and full-serve restaurants. I really like what I see so far. Its intuitive, user-friendly and really functional. Yesterday, I did payroll on CAKE and I can’t believe how little time it took compared to the system I used years ago. CAKE is cloud based so you never need to worry about losing contact with the system, even if the internet goes down. I love the daily reporting I get automatically, and I can check sales and other key-data at any time from any device, even remotely. We use CAKE Payments which charges a low uniform fee for every transaction including American Express.
This is just my take, but again do your homework and listen on. In this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Chip O’Connell, the Director of Customer Success for CAKE by Sysco. We’ll be talking about the ins and outs of the system, easy training with CAKE University, 24/7 support, online ordering and CAKE’s “Guest Manager” feature which increases guest counts. Folks, this is how to run a restaurant and how to increase restaurant sales.
Cake is offering a Free Demo at www.trycake.com/rockstar With this link, you’ll also get $750 off activation.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to today’s show sponsor: Square Payroll Square handles all payroll withholding, payments and filing at no additional cost. Pricing is fair and flexible and scales with your business. Sign up for Square Payroll today at www.square.com/go/rockstar and get 3 free months of service!
There are nearly 1 million unfilled jobs in the hospitality industry, and chances are you’re struggling to find and keep great people.
Its no secret that the average tenure of a new restaurant hire is just 4 months. Every time you onboard someone, get them up to speed in the job, lose them, find another and train them, it just cost your operation $3,000 or more. No restaurant or lodging place can afford this. The answer is being resourceful. You have to take a fresh approach to your business, do some research and know that the key lies beyond putting a help wanted sign in your window. This is how to run a restaurant folks.
Have you heard of “Pro-Start”? It’s a national program of close to 2,000 participating schools in all 50 states that are training the future leaders of the industry. This is one business that does not require a college degree to rise to the top. Chances are, one of these participating schools is located near your operation. Why not find out more?
In this week’s episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Ms. Amy Saltzman, Director of Pro-Start at the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. Amy tells us how today’s generation is defining their own career paths with “new collar” jobs - those positions that require specialized education and skill but not necessarily a four-year degree. Pro-Start trains students in both the culinary and management sides of the business. The program teaches them life skills - responsibility, teamwork, time management and professionalism.
Instead of taking a chance on an unproven hire, why not reach out to your local high schools and explore someone from Pro-Start? This could be the future of your business.
Now go out there and run a rock star restaurant.
Roger
Check out The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show Sponsor: Square Payroll Square handles all payroll withholding, payments and filing at no additional cost. Pricing is fair and flexible and scales with your business. Sign up for Square Payroll today at www.square.com/go/rockstar and get 3 free months of service!
Traditional advertising is like dumping money out the window. Unless, everyone who walks in your door says “Hey Joe, your radio commercial brought us in tonite”, you’re wasting your money. Why? Because there’s no way to track the return on investment of most ad spends if there is any and there’s just too much advertising clutter out there to get your message across.
Here’s an idea. Technology can help you run a more successful business and get customers in the door. When I ran restaurants, the WiFi was free because my customers expected it, but I didn’t get any benefit from it. Everyone had free WiFi.
Today, your WiFi can actually build a powerful database for your restaurant and give you intelligence on your customers that you can use to communicate with them. Imagine capturing emails, cell phone numbers or social media handles from your WiFi and then instantly sending out promotions, specials and offers that bring them back in the door. I’m a huge believer in internal marketing to your existing customers and giving them reasons to return.
In today’s episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, my guest is Mr. Steve Fletcher from WiFi Technology Solutions. He’s going to show us strategies to increase sales in restaurants and how sending 100 text messages can actually bring in 30 customers to your restaurant.
Why not get a free Demonstration at www.getwifitech.com/rockstars ? For a limited time, they are offering unlimited texts and low monthly subscription rates. Check it out.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out the Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to today’s show sponsor: Square Payroll: Square handles all payroll withholding, payments and filing at no additional cost. Pricing is fair and flexible and scales with your business. Sign up for Square Payroll today at www.square.com/go/rockstar and get 3 free months of service!
When I ran restaurants, my attorney was invaluable for so many unexpected issues saving me time, money and headaches. You never know when something seemingly innocent turns into a big problem. I’m also a huge believer in creating and sustaining an unstoppable “Brand”, not just running a restaurant.
Today on the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m speaking with Abe Cohn, of Cohn Legal Group, a NYC attorney who specializes in Intellectual Property, Trademark & Brand Protection for restaurants. Pay attention here because you’ll learn exactly what elements in your restaurant are protectable by law and how you can protect them. We’re talking names, trade secrets, possibly even Grandma’s secret recipes.
On top of this, we’ll be covering the best form of organization to protect your restaurant and you as owner, the importance of separating your real estate from your operating company, the ins & outs of hiring Independent Contractors vs. Employees and how the IRS looks at the difference. Super important stuff on how to open a restaurant and how to run a restaurant
Last, would your restaurant consider a “No-Tipping” policy? Well this is a pretty heated topic right now and as with most big decisions in your operation, you don’t know what you’re going to get until you get it, so tread lightly, but listen to Abe first.
Now go out there and run a Rock Star Restaurant!
Roger
Connect with Abe Cohn: abe@cohnlg.com https://www.cohnlg.com
Learn More About the Restaurant Rockstars Academy: Everything you need to know to start and run a super profitable, highly successful restaurant! 3 levels of membership available depending on your needs and current challenges. https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our sponsor Square Payroll: Square handles all payroll withholding, payments and filing at no additional cost. Pricing is fair and flexible and scales with your business. Sign up for Square Payroll today at www.square.com/go/rockstar and get 3 free months of service!
I was blown away this week speaking with Reed Allen Slobusky - he’s the consummate impresario restaurateur. Passion drives this business, but so does marketing genius, financial acumen and a finger on the pulse of what diner’s want in a restaurant. All this has led to a ketchup factory in Costa Rica, phenomenal success in multiple states and unlimited future opportunity.
The concept is so cool and the names of the food items catch your imagination. Imagine a menu with sinful delicious indulgences next to super-healthy options. Why not try a “Thai Knee Dancer” or a “Brussel Crowe” - you’ll have to tune in to find out!
Come on people, listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, get creative and follow Reed’s lead on this. If you have one location or many locations, build and run a “BRAND”. Its truly how to open a restaurant, how to run a restaurant and how to increase restaurant business.
I’m not going to share the whole story in this space, but here’s a “HOOK”! When a customer has a complaint or leaves a negative review, Reed’s solution is to invite that customer back in as a secret shopper… makes them feel like a VIP and turns the situation around.
Stay tuned for more restaurant wisdom and powerful nuggets.
Check out SkinnyFats: https://skinnyfats.com/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Check out the Restaurant Rockstars Academy: restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our sponsors:
Cake: If you purchase CAKE at this link, www.trycake.com/rockstar GET $750 off Activation. Now running your restaurant can be a piece of Cake!
WIFI technology solutions: They’re the “TEXT PERTS” and for a limited time, they’re offering Unlimited Texts with low monthly subscription rates. See for yourself at www.getwifitech.com/rockstars
Square Payroll: Square handles all payroll withholding, payments and filing at no additional cost. Pricing is fair and flexible and scales with your business. Sign up for Square Payroll today at www.square.com/go/rockstar and get 3 free months of service!
The biggest restaurant challenge today is finding and keeping a great staff! Doesn’t matter where you live or run your restaurant, unemployment is at record lows.
The latest stats say that the average tenure of a “New Restaurant Employee” is just 4 months. And in that short period, everytime you hire someone, get them up to speed in their job, lose or have to fire them and then replace that person, it costs on average $3,000 - $4,000. In an industry already known for high turnover, no restaurant can afford this.
What’s the answer? Recruiting Not Hiring.
The old-school way most restaurants approach this problem is to simply put a sign in the window or place a help wanted ad in the local paper and hope for the best. First, this approach usually only gets you someone else’s problem employee and second, with other industries able to pay higher wages, you’re really last in line getting the bottom of the barrel.
In this episode of the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast, we explore an innovative way of recruiting. I’m speaking with last year’s Gubernatorial candidate from Maine, who now heads up the “Workforce Development Committee” for Hospitality Maine. I’m on this committee so I’ve had a first hand look and front row seat for a new program that finds, recruits and apprentices staff for restaurants and lodging properties. Learn more at: https://www.hospitalitymaine.com/page/Apprenticehome
This is one best practice that will inspire and give new ideas on how to build your own “Dream Team” staff in your operation. You might also want to share it with your state restaurant and lodging associations. This idea will only serve to up-level the hospitality industry nationwide.
In this most challenging of all businesses, this is how to run a restaurant.
Thanks for tuning in. Roger
Learn More About The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Thank you to our show sponsors:
CAKE: If you purchase CAKE at this link, www.trycake.com/rockstar GET $750 off Activation. Now running your restaurant can be a piece of Cake!
WIFI TECH: They’re the “TEXT PERTS” and for a limited time, they’re offering Unlimited Texts with low monthly subscription rates. See for yourself at www.getwifitech.com/rockstars
Fact is 82% of the Dining Public Order Out! If your restaurant isn’t taking online orders, you’re missing lots of sales and potential profit.
I have always believed that you can’t have too many profit centers in your restaurant and this one is a must have.
Problem is many systems require you to have multiple tablets from each of the delivery platforms to receive orders. Talk about a nightmare. How could your staff possibly keep it all straight without messing up orders, not to mention the wasted food, lost profits, clutter and storage issues. That’s just crazy.
But today, I’m talking with an industry veteran who’s disrupting the old way with an innovative online ordering solution. One dashboard, one printer all integrating with your POS system. Best part is, all the major delivery platforms are also onboard. That’s right, Ubereats, Eat Street, Eat24 and all the rest are there.
Join me in speaking with Alex Canter with OrderMark. He’s a 4th generation restaurateur from the famous Canter’s Deli in Los Angeles turned tech CEO.
See for yourself if Alex’s solution can give your sales and profits a boost - https://www.ordermark.com/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Thank you to our sponsors:
Cake: If you purchase CAKE at this link, www.trycake.com/rockstar GET $750 off Activation. Now running your restaurant can be a piece of Cake!
WiFi Tech: They’re the “TEXT PERTS” and for a limited time, they’re offering Unlimited Texts with low monthly subscription rates. See for yourself at www.getwifitech.com/rockstars
Learn More About The Restaurant Rockstars Academy: The Ultimate Restaurant Start-Up & Management Course - https://restaurantrockstars.com
I know you agree that one of the greatest challenges you face running restaurants is staff. Going a step further, what happens when you lose a “Key” team member? I had this problem many times when I ran restaurants. All is well, things are running smooth, until they’re not!
Does your operation have a “Plan B”? A backup when the unexpected occurs?
Most of the time this happens in the kitchen. You just got notice from your chef that they’re moving on to your competitor. Your customers love your food and now the person responsible for making it all happen just gave you two weeks. Are you feeling the heat?
Well no worries. Today I’m talking with Mr. Daryle Degan, a charming Scot who noticed both an increase in demand from restaurants to find quality staff and the struggles candidates faced when navigating their way to the perfect job. As a seasoned veteran Chef himself, Daryle speaks the language. He knows instinctively the importance of “fit” and can exactly match highly experience and vetted candidates to each restaurant challenge. His company is called MaineCater www.mainecater.com. When you have a need, Daryle’s the one to call.
MaineCater isn’t your typical recruitment company. They know the inner workings of the hospitality industry and what it’s like to work those 80+ hour weeks. What separates them from the competition is that they’re ready to jump in anytime, anywhere. In 2019, MaineCater will launch into New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.
No matter where you run your restaurant, you have to be resourceful. If you have a need, you can be sure there’s a source to meet that need. You just need to take a deep breath, take a look around and find the answer to any challenge you face. This is how to run a restaurant folks…the only way.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Learn More About THE RESTAURANT ACADEMY - https://restaurantrockstars.com
A big THANK YOU to our show sponsors:
CAKE :: If you purchase CAKE at this link, www.trycake.com/rockstar GET $750 off Activation. Now running your restaurant can be a piece of Cake!
WIFI TECH :: They’re the “TEXT PERTS” and for a limited time, they’re offering Unlimited Texts with low monthly subscription rates. See for yourself at www.getwifitech.com/rockstars
SUBSCRIBE TO THE RESTAURANT ROCKSTARS PODCAST ON ITUNES: https://apple.co/2WaKyqV
I loved this episode. Passion runs deep in all restaurants, but the magic formula to creating a truly great restaurant can be elusive. Even more so when you take an established and iconic brand and turn it into something completely new.
Today, I’m speaking with Ms. Sylvie Gabriele who accomplished just that. She transformed her father’s 37 year old Los Angeles restaurant and re-branded it with her own vision in every way. In fact along with other accolades, her new restaurant “Love & Salt”, was named “LA’s Best Restaurant Comeback Story” by Forbes Magazine. We talk about the family legacy, the new vision, triumphs, experiments, key-learnings, best practices and the soul that goes into every dish.
This is how to open a restaurant folks. You just have to think about how you would create, sustain and elevate a new restaurant brand if you were starting over today. It all starts at the top.
Tune in to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast and prepare to be inspired. You’ll certainly feel the spirit that pervades the staff, the ambiance and the food at Love & Salt just as I did in speaking with Sylvie. While you’re at it, check out www.loveandsaltla.com
Now Go Out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger This episode brought to you by Bentobox. Bentobox builds beautiful, mobile friendly and SEO optimized websites especially for restaurants. Best part is, you can update menus, promote events, share press and do so much more all yourself. Bentobox websites also include tools that attract more customers, grow your business and drive revenue. You can sell gift cards, merchandise, event tickets and even book private events.
Bentobox offers affordable monthly and annual plans for restaurants. Schedule a Free Demo: Getbento.com/rockstars
Imagine the sites, sounds, smells and ambiance of your restaurant without walking in the door.
I’m talking about bringing the experience to life for the customer before they step foot in your restaurant. Then, once they’re there and they like what they see, giving them many reasons to spend money. You can sell the convenience and excitement of gift cards year-round, you can sell tickets to events, book catering or private parties in your restaurant.. even sell branded logo-merchandise.
The key to all of this is a great restaurant website. One that’s designed to be mobile-friendly and SEO optimized so potential customers can find you. Best of all, wouldn’t it be great if you could update your website yourself on the fly, without waiting for a web designer to do it for you. Big changes or small changes, adding press and publicity, etc.. Its easy and you can do it even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Today I’m speaking with Bentobox, creators of great restaurant websites. Whether you have an existing website or need one from scratch Bentobox can help. Why not see for yourself what they can do for your restaurant. Click this link for a free demo : www.getbento.com/rockstars
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More About The Restaurant Rockstars Academy and our 3 levels of membership - https://restaurantrockstars.com/
The sponsor of today's episode is Bentobox Bentobox builds beautiful, mobile friendly and SEO optimized websites especially for restaurants. Best part is, you can update menus, promote events, share press and do so much more all yourself. Bentobox websites also include tools that attract more customers, grow your business and drive revenue. You can sell gift cards, merchandise, event tickets and even book private events. Bentobox offers affordable monthly and annual plans for restaurants. Schedule a Free Demo: Getbento.com/rockstars
Selling food and beverage is Not enough. Your restaurant needs multiple profit centers. Our goal is to bring you new ideas, inspiring guests and powerful tools to help improve your restaurant.
So here’s a story: Professional musician travels the country, constantly ordering out at restaurants. He sees a broken system and a better way to streamline the online ordering process. It just so happens, he also has a tech background and creates a better way.
In today’s episode, Mr. J.P. Dias from FoodieOrder tells all about the inefficiencies he saw and his solution.
We’re talking about:
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The high commissions third party ordering systems take from your bottom line
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How valuable customer data is being kept from the restaurant owner
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How you might be gaining new customers but losing your all-important “regulars”
So stay tuned as we show you how your restaurant can have a custom branded Online Ordering App for IOS or Android that integrates with your website and social media.
And by the way, you can enjoy unlimited orders and pay No Commissions. Expert Marketing and an advanced Loyalty program are added pluses.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
This episode brought to you by Bentobox. Bentobox builds beautiful, mobile friendly and SEO optimized websites especially for restaurants. Best part is, you can update menus, promote events, share press and do so much more all yourself. Bentobox websites also include tools that attract more customers, grow your business and drive revenue. You can sell gift cards, merchandise, event tickets and even book private events. Bentobox offers affordable monthly and annual plans for restaurants. Schedule a Free Demo ->> Getbento.com/rockstars
It’s getting harder and harder to compete as an “indie” in the restaurant space. Its hard enough to open up one restaurant and succeed let alone two, three or more. But then add in tremendous competition in one of the fastest growing most intensely concentrated restaurant cities in America. What do you have?
Two regular guys with a humble story who created a unique product, opened a small shop, then another and now they’re on location 13 in multiple states. What’s their secret to success? How about the secret sauce that makes their pizza really stand out from the competition? Better yet, how do they compete against all types of cuisine offerings on just about every street and corner with a pizza menu?
The whole story is all in this episode. We’re talking with Anthony, Mike and Lincoln from OTTO Pizza.
We’ll learn how systems are the “key” to running and maintaining that all important consistency in multiple locations. How finding, inspiring and surrounding themselves with talented and motivated people are a huge component in rocking their brand. How never being afraid to experiment is really how to open a restaurant and how to run a restaurant.
Tune in, stay on and listen up as this episode of the Restaurant Rock Stars Podcast is chock-full of “key-learnings” and best practices to run your own Rock Star Restaurant.
Go out there and Make it Happen!
Roger
This episode is brought to you by Bentobox. Bentobox builds beautiful, mobile friendly and SEO optimized websites especially for restaurants. Best part is, you can update menus, promote events, share press and do so much more all yourself. Bentobox websites also include tools that attract more customers, grow your business and drive revenue. You can sell gift cards, merchandise, event tickets and even book private events. Bentobox offers affordable monthly and annual plans for restaurants. Schedule a Free Demo: Getbento.com/rockstars
When I ran restaurants I was obsessed with Profit. Not just saving costs, but squeezing every dime of profit across the operation.
Usually this takes some understanding of numbers, a keen eye and a plan; but in this case, the plan comes to you in a turn-key solution.
In this episode, Naomi Canning, the President of Dining Edge shows us:
How to save 8 - 12% on Inventory Purchasing with their proprietary Vendor Price Comparison. This allows you to see which vendor has the lowest price on everything you buy and anytime prices change all on one screen.
Cloud based software that manages your food and beverage Inventory and gives you complete accuracy in real-time and just as important, we see Dining Edge’s Invoice Check-In that automatically compares your Purchase Orders against your Invoices and flags any discrepancies, while your goods are automatically checked-in and added to inventory.
Recipe Management, Depletion and Menu Costing
and here’s the kicker… Dining Edge captures all your rebates back from the manufacturer automatically. You don’t need to do anything, the checks just come in the mail.
Believe me, so many restaurants are missing these critical details at their peril. We’re talking about saving money and finding money.
Don’t miss this episode and for a FREE DEMO to see exactly how Dining Edge can give your restaurant this powerful advantage, click this link: http://bit.ly/2w21fFj_DiningEdgeContactUs
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Spirit, Soul & Passion are evident in a truly great restaurant. You know it the moment you walk in the door.
The way you are greeted and made to feel welcome… the sights, sounds and smells that build anticipation.
These are just the surface elements, but it’s the mission statement, the foundation and inspiring leadership that truly create greatness.
This episode so moved me. My guest Mr. Hans Luttmann is the Managing Partner and Director of Hospitality for the San Julian Restaurant Group in Los Angeles.
His restaurant is called Rossoblu, a concept bringing to life the rich legacy of cooking and viniculture of the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Even the pasta is hand-crafted by a master artisan brought in from Bologna. Hans is far from a figurehead. He’s a truly hands-on soulful leader that motivates his team from the deep love of running truly great restaurants. The passion of Rossoblu is contagious and instilled in each member of the staff. The guest can’t help but feel there’s some magic happening here.
Hans and I speak about cultivating and nurturing a great staff, the importance of daily training, maintaining the all-important financial controls, creating a warm inviting ambiance that captures the diner’s imagination and the marketing strategy that defines the brand. We even talk about how to share the wealth between front and back of house. In a sea of competition whether you’re new to the business or a veteran, this approach demonstrates how to open a restaurant, how to run a restaurant and how to increase restaurant business.
Give a listen to this episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast. It’s all about breaking bread and how different cultures and humanity come together for the common love of food.
Roger
This episode brought to you by Bentobox - They build beautiful, mobile friendly and SEO optimized websites especially for restaurants. Best part is, you can update menus, promote events, share press and do so much more all yourself. Bentobox websites also include tools that attract more customers, grow your business and drive revenue. You can sell gift cards, merchandise, event tickets and even book private events.
Bentobox offers affordable monthly and annual plans for restaurants - http://getbento.com/rockstars
What do Hypnosis, Psychology and Show Business have to do with your restaurant?
Tune in to this episode to find out how to increase sales in a restaurant through an amazingly effective Marketing Strategy. I’m a huge believer in building that all important “Affinity” with your customers. This was super-powerful when I ran restaurants and it still is today and here’s the “key”.
Rob and Kennedy are amazing podcast guests.. sharp as tacks, engaging, humorous, entertaining and totally well-versed on their subject of expertise. These two serial entrepreneurs from the UK will show us how to harness the power of email marketing to attract more business from your existing customers, create loyalty and new business.
We’ll learn the key-steps to building a list, getting deep engagement from your list, tapping customer data through effective surveys and using that feedback to increase restaurant sales and profit. This is how to run a restaurant folks. So stay tuned til the very end, as Rob & Kennedy have graciously offered your restaurant Two Free Weeks of their service and they will personally work with you to get your campaign Rocking & Rolling!
To get this Offer and work with Rob & Kennedy, click this link: http://bit.ly/2VC47qN
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Learn More About Restaurant Rockstars: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
This episode is brought to you by Bentobox. They build beautiful, mobile friendly and SEO optimized websites especially for restaurants. Best part is, you can update menus, promote events, share press and do so much more all yourself. Bentobox websites also include tools that attract more customers, grow your business and drive revenue. You can sell gift cards, merchandise, event tickets and even book private events. Bentobox offers affordable monthly and annual plans at this link: getbento.com/rockstars
What if you could gain decades of operating experience in just an hour? All the ideas that you could instantly execute, the headaches and pitfalls you could avoid, not to mention the leg up on your competition. Stay tuned.
The “key” is to listen to this episode and then run right out and join your state restaurant association.
Today, I’m speaking with Mr. John Barker the President and C.E.O. of the Ohio State Restaurant Association. John is an industry veteran with an illustrious prior career in numerous positions with Wendy’s. Now he’s passionate about helping his members, restaurants and his students succeed.
In this episode of the Restaurant RocksStars Podcast, we talked about:
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the biggest challenges facing restaurants today
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surrounding yourself with people that know what you don’t know - this is the only way how to open a restaurant and how to run a restaurant.
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the controversy surrounding a “No-Tipping” policy - should your restaurant try this?
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the importance of proper systems and knowing your numbers and costs
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the bottom line on all the technology and restaurant software out there
and so many more key-learnings and nuggets of industry wisdom
There are so many reasons to join your state association, not to mention the benefits and R.O.I. It just makes sense to give your restaurant every advantage.
Don’t miss this episode, then go run your own rock star restaurant!
Roger
https://restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/epsiode-159-decades-of-experience-and-advice-from-an-industry-veteran
We’re in this together. This crazy business of pleasing the public, creating new dishes, getting customers in the door and making money.
What does it take? Commitment, inspiration, leadership, attention to detail, numbers, people. You have to be good at all these things and so many more. I’m sure you agree that running restaurants is one of the most challenging of all businesses and it takes a special type of person to be truly successful.
In my latest episode I’m starting what I call the Independent Operator’s Series. I’m speaking with Mr. Matt Chappell of Gather, a Farm Fresh Eatery in Yarmouth on the beautiful coast of Maine. I want to share the challenges, the triumphs, the decisions, the mistakes and the ultimate learning on how to open a restaurant, how to run a restaurant profitably and successfully, how to increase restaurant sales and increase restaurant business.
After seven years, Matt is a veteran operator who’s not afraid to experiment, try new things, lead by example, empower the team and stay on top of all the details. We’ll talk about the delicate balance between the front and back of house, management style, training staff, menu building, innovative marketing and some solid advice to new and existing operators from in the trenches.
Stay tuned and Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
I see far too many operators losing money with their menu. Its a restaurant’s most powerful marketing tool, but they don’t design it for maximum profit. This is not how to run a restaurant.
Follow me here, you can be filling your restaurant seats with lines out the door and still be losing money all because your least profitable menu items are the Biggest Sellers! Your kitchen staff are working just as hard putting out these low profit items, so you might as well be selling only high profit items.
This latest episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast is a must see! I’m talking with Mark Laux of HotOperator.com and he’s going to show you exactly how a menu should be designed with an actual restaurant menu. Thanks to Mr. Chris King from Hohbrahtacos.com Chris has two really groovin taco joints in Brooklyn and Staten Island with a cool surfer vibe and great food. Problem is, his menu was not designed for maximum profit… Until Now!
Do yourself and your bank account a favor and watch the episode. Great menu design is both an art and a science. This is a sure fire lesson on how to increase sales in a restaurant and make sure those sales are super profitable.
Don’t just run a restaurant, run a Rock Star restaurant.
Everyone has a birthday and everyone has to eat. Get the connection?
Well, you’ve probably racked your brain more than once for new restaurant marketing ideas. We’ve all been there, but this one is worth your attention.
If you’ve been wondering how to increase restaurant business, why not harness the power of birthdays to get new customers in the door… not just a two-top, but a whole party then get them back again. Its called “Birthday Marketing” and its all about capturing the market, getting them in your door then back again and again. .
In today’s episode of the Restaurant RockStars Podcast, I’m talking with Mr. Dyson Barnett who’ll tell us all about how to increase sales in a restaurant through Wifi marketing, Mobile marketing and the Big Kahuna “birthdays”.
This is how to run a restaurant and how to increase restaurant sales.
If you want a free demo go to: https://www.getfanconnect.com/BirthdayRockstar/
Now go out there and build your own Rock Star restaurant.
Roger
To open a restaurant you need equipment. To expand your menu and increase restaurant sales you need equipment. New or Used? Buy, rent or lease? Finding time to source it? What to do?
Today’s episode is a different way in sourcing equipment. I’m talking with KWIPPED, a B2B Marketplace where you can find virtually any piece of restaurant equipment across the country. You get quotes from multiple sources for that equipment and then compare prices and options. If you have a short term or seasonal need, you can rent it. If you want to lease it for awhile and return it, you can do that too. Or, you can lease it to own it.
With a marketplace, you get options and best pricing with reputable dealers.
Give a listen and see for yourself what you can get, how it works and when you can get it. You might just save time and headaches. Run a restaurant, while KWIPPED finds it for you.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Listen, You Can’t have too many Profit Centers in your business. There is so much more opportunity than just selling food and drink. One of the biggest strategies to increase sales in a restaurant is “events” and private parties.
Events are a beautiful thing! They’re predictable - you know how many are coming, when, what you’re serving and how much you’re making. This is how to run a restaurant and how to increase restaurant sales without advertising.
Today I’m speaking with Mr. Jonathan Morse, the Co-founder and CEO of Tripleseat. They’ve created a turn-key Event Management App that dials in the whole process of creating events, sending proposals and tracking all the details. There’s even a lead-generation system that drives new business to your door without the huge expense of traditional marketing.
Jonathan is a 30+ year industry veteran and leader with a wealth of operating experience that led to this App. Tripleseat even has a free DEMO on their website that walks you through their turnkey system at your convenience, so check it out and get the Event ball rolling at your place.
Now Go Out There and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
You can run a failing restaurant, an average restaurant or a wildly successful restaurant. The difference all comes down to 3 critical “systems”. If you don’t know them and don’t have them, it’s pretty likely you are not making any money. In this restaurant podcast episode, I’m going to share my 3 Secrets to Wild Success.
My biggest mantra has always been “Be a Student of your Restaurant”. That is dive deep and learn everything you can about every position across your operation. Get your hands dirty. Wash some dishes, cook a steak, mix a martini, greet the guests and why not bus a few tables along the way. Then, systemize every moving piece and that my friends becomes your “Exit” strategy. Whether you want to make more money, have more time away or sell for maximum price, these 3 systems will make all the difference. This is how to increase restaurant business and how to run a restaurant. I’ll even share how to increase restaurant sales without advertising, without traditional marketing of any kind and spending little to no money.
Today is the first day of your future. As long as you’re spending the time and putting in the effort, you might as well be crushing it.
So listen up, take some notes, then Go out there and ROCK your Restaurant!
Today’s guest is one of my favorites! Mr. Jesse Vazquez delivers powerful advice from the trenches throughout a long illustrious career. Jesse began to learn how to run a restaurant in his family’s Miami Cuban Cafe where 18 hour days were the norm, seven days a week. They put it all on the line committing to a concept that bled money. Despite the staggering odds of failure in this business, Jesse was determined to find out and learn the restaurant business from the inside out. When he was ready to start and open a restaurant and then open more concepts, he applied “systems” which became his exit strategy. Long before social media, Jesse is famous for going outside his place to find customers and bring in the business (“street fighting as he calls it”). If you’re looking for restaurant marketing ideas, take this one lesson all the way to the bank.
We’re going to zero in on 2 powerful ideas that will make all the difference for your operation:
1) Understanding your Target Customer, Market Leadership and Strategies to Increase sales in restaurants
and
2) The difference between Food Cost & Bottom-Line Profit
This episode holds so much passion for this business and endless take-aways you can apply today to run a stronger restaurant. Don’t miss it!
You can find Jesse at Jancg.com or email him at jvazquez@jancg.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
What would you do to compete if you ran a casino hotel in famous Las Vegas? What would you do to open a restaurant and what strategies would you use to increase sales in the restaurant?
Yes, we can all name the mega-brand hotels on the famous strip, but how could you make a splash if your operation was “Off” the strip? How could you capture the imagination of the public and get them in your door?
Well…stay tuned to this episode as the lessons learned apply to any restaurant concept. Its all about having a vision, creativity, resourcefulness and lots of “hooks”. In the hospitality business, you can’t have too many hooks!
Today, I’m talking with Mr. Craig Cavalier who has attracted some of the most visible and recognized brands to be part of his brand, not to mention the list of other powerful hooks that are drawing in the crowds and profits. This way of thinking revolutionizes the way marketing and business can and should be done.
We’re also going to be talking:
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The power of staff training, and the competitive advantage that dazzling service has on each and every guest
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How to create exciting restaurant venues with so much competition all over town
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The importance of style and design to create captivating ambiance
AND Craig’s advice for the everyday independent restaurateur with one or few locations
If you have a Big Idea to share with Craig, think you’d be an asset to the Silverton organization or just want to drop Craig a line, email kimiko.peterson@silvertoncasino.com
Remember, it’s not about running a restaurant or a business enterprise, its about taking no prisoners and dominating the competition. Don’t miss it!
Roger
I have a mantra: The Money’s either in Your Pocket or Their Pocket, so it pays to Shop around!
I can’t tell you how many times I changed credit card processors over the years before finally finding one that offered both great service and a rate I could count on. But I’m willing to bet many of you are struggling with this, or have just given up accepting whatever processor you’re working with. Well all that’s over.
My guest today, Mr. Chris Rumpf is a restaurant tech expert and President of FLYGHT, a company that offers restaurants a complete one-stop tech solution. But let’s get back to processing.
Listen and watch as Chris walks us through the dirty details of a typical credit card processing statement. He’ll show us what to look for, what to look out for and some of the hidden mysteries and costs of payment processing. I’m pretty sure after watching this episode, you’re going want to take a closer look at your processor and ask some tough questions.
Find Chris at www.whatisflyght.com
Now Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode Show Notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/episode-150-credit-card-processing-for-restaurants-demystified More restaurant resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Straight and simple. These 5 Letters: F, A, C, E, S will transform your customer experience and your business. What you do with these letters will be a true game-changer for your operation.
I’m a firm believer in daily training. It doesn’t need to take much time; but to be effective, it needs to be focused and consistent.
In today’s episode, I’m going to show you a simple training exercise that’s guaranteed to up-level your guest service, show true hospitality and get those fans leaving raving reviews.
All you need are these 5 letters. You’ll have to listen to find out what they mean and what they’ll do for your staff, your customer and your business.
Give a listen and go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger Email me: roger@restaurantrockstars.com Full show notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Restaurant success is fleeting and fickle. There I said it! Even with the right approach, success is far from guaranteed.
I get it. Everyday you put your heart and soul into your business. You get up early, open your doors and get home late. You work weekends and sacrifice holidays. You truly care about your staff and your customer, but sometimes the thousand details and the unexpected get in the way, and there never seems to be enough time to make it all happen.
But, you’re in this business because of passion, and despite the challenges, good enough is Not good enough. You don’t want to just succeed, you want to build a lasting legacy.
I’ve since sold my restaurants and it was a bit of a blast from the past to recently read about it in a highly acclaimed magazine, and to once again walk in the door and be a customer after four years had passed.
Listen to this episode and see how vision, passion and execution can carry even if you decide not to be there.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger https://restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Episode #147 If you do nothing else in this New Year, Design a New Menu!
Why? To Maximize Profit Of Course! Believe me, I constantly see restaurants with un-profitable menus. Even busy restaurants that are filling seats are spinning their wheels wondering why the bank account isn’t growing.
Well, this episode has the answer. Menu design is an Art & Science so you’ve got to listen to my guest Mr. Mark Laux from Hot Operator. His team designs powerful menus that rake in the cash.
Listen as we discuss:
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Food Cost versus Profit
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Why restaurants Should Not design their own menus
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How effective Staff Training increases Sales
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The relation of Product Mix and Plate Cost to a Great Menu
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The impact of Positioning, Highlighting, Anchoring & Numbers…and so much more.
C’mon Get your house in order now and reap the rewards the rest of the year.
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Full show notes: https://restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/episode-147-does-your-menu-print-money
Episode #146 - Wow! The ground shook under my feet as I recorded this episode. So much powerful information on getting the most out of each employee and building an unstoppable work-place culture.
I’m talking to Mr. John Hopper of The Greatest On The Planet. He is a veteran business owner with a truly transformative employer philosophy.
We talk about the “6 Things You Should Care About as an Employer”, what your staff are looking for in the place they work AND Why you need to listen to their needs and deliver. Its a magic formula to building the foundation of your business and creating lasting customer relationships.
Training is essential in any business, but does your leadership approach measure up to the best? Are you creating the “Greatest Employees on the Planet”?
Give this episode a listen then take these nuggets back to your operation and Rock Your Restaurant!
Full show notes: www.restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/episode-146-how-to-get-the-greatest-employees-on-the-planet
Episode #145 - Every restaurant out there has a POS, but what you do with the data from that POS is what separates the smart and profitable operators from those just spinning their wheels.
There’s also an overwhelming amount of new tech out there… stuff that runs your front of house, your back of house, online orders, online delivery, wifi, telephone and even security.
Have you seen all this and what this technology can do for your business?
Well, that’s just one part of this episode.
My guest today, Mr. Chris Rumpf is a restaurant tech expert and President of FLYGHT, a company that can do All this for you. In this episode, we dig deep into what’s really important when you’re looking to get a system or upgrade from something that’s just not keeping up with your growing business.
Listen as Chris tells us what to look for, what to look out for and some of the hidden mysteries and costs of maintenance contracts and even payment processing. Find Chris at www.whatisflyght.com Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
FREE WEBINARS AND OTHER RESOURCES: https://restaurantrockstars.com/
Episode #144 - There’s no end in sight for the food truck craze. Whether you’re looking for a low cost entry into the food biz or you’re a bricks n mortar operation looking to expand and find new sales & profits, opportunity is literally around the next corner. Why not go mobile?
Today I’m speaking with Connie Baugher at One Fat Frog. Not only are they “the source” and a wealth of info on everything food trucks, they’re also one of the country’s largest restaurant equipment dealers selling new & re-conditioned equipment of all types.
Listen as Connie and I talk about how to turn your rolling food dream machine into reality. What you should be thinking about before you get into the business and, how much money you could be making with a mobile operation if you’ve done your homework.
On the equipment side; we talk about the pieces that nearly last forever, no matter how old they are when you buy them. What you should look at new vs. used and where to spend vs. save money.
What really inspires is this lady’s approach to business. Its all about providing value, honesty, integrity with high-quality.
This exciting episode is sure to trigger new ideas, opportunity and provide valuable advice whether you’re in the market for that rolling kitchen on wheels or equipment.
Find Connie at www.onefatfrog.com, on twitter @onefatfrog and One Fat Frog on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant (and your food truck!)
Roger
Register for my FREE WEBINAR "How To Start & Run A Wildly Successful Restaurant" https://restaurantrockstars.com/wildlysuccessful
Reservations are a given in most restaurants. Customers expect them.. customers call to make them. But, do you really need to take reservations? If you’re about to open a place, what would happen if you decided not to take reservations? What would happen if you suddenly stopped taking them altogether?
Well, depending on your concept and your price point, maybe you really don’t need to take reservations at all. Maybe, just maybe with a first-come first served policy, you could actually make more money and serve more guests without them.
You’ll have to listen to the episode to find out, but believe me it’s worth thinking through.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Register For My Free Webinar "How To Start And Run A Wildly Successful Restaurant" https://go.restaurantrockstars.com/webinar
Episode #142 - My guest today has to be one of my favorites! Mr. Jesse Vazquez delivers powerful advice from the trenches throughout a long illustrious career.
He tells of early failure in his family’s Miami Cuban Cafe where 18 hour days were the norm, seven days a week. Imagine putting it all on the line and committing to a concept that’s bleeding money. They didn’t know what they didn’t know, but Jesse was determined to find out and learn the business from the inside out.
Despite negative stigma and the disappointment of family and friends, he tells how McDonald’s gave him an invaluable education and then had him opening franchise restaurants in multiple countries.
When he was ready to start his own restaurant and then open more concepts, he applied “systems” which became his exit strategy. Before social media, Jesse talks about how he went outside his place to find customers and bring in the business (“street fighting as he calls it”).
He tells how Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and “great chicken” put his operation on the map. Imagine selling 2,000 pounds of chicken every day, while the personable “Rock” signed endless autographs for surprised customers.
Jesse ultimately pivoted and now is giving young chefs a leg up and the chance to make their mark on this great business. Other key-learnings include:
Why customers visit a restaurant: Is it the food, the location, the ambiance, the service?
The 5 Systems used by all successful restaurants: Training, recruiting & retention, scheduling, planned maintenance and production
The power of your “Brand”, not just the business’ brand but your personal brand and what your sign says about your restaurant
Why you should grow your business slowly and this one might surprise, why we don’t want happy employees working for us.
This episode holds so much passion for this business and endless take-aways you can apply today to run a stronger restaurant. Don’t miss it!
You can find Jesse at Jancg.com or email him at jvazquez@jancg.com
Please stick around to the end of the episode to learn about our Free Webinar that gives you the tools to execute all these ideas.
As I mentioned in the episode, to watch my FREE WEBINAR: “How To Start + Run A Wildly Successful Restaurant” - Register Here >> https://go.restaurantrockstars.com/webinar
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #141 - True, my guest today has NO interest in running a restaurant, but he’s going to share a ton of powerful business building stuff that you can use in your own place.
You’ll hear how market research was the “Key” to establishing a successful niche in a crowded beer market.
You’ll learn how Mr. Mike Marr is making a huge splash with his brewery and getting the customer’s attention.
How he’s overcoming day to day obstacles and yes, most importantly, how he’s using a different approach to hiring and building a great team!
Restaurant or not, listen on as our conversation is right on target for your own operation.
Roger
For full show notes and links visit: https://restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Everyone’s telling you you’ve got to be on Social Media and its the “Key” to your Marketing Plan!
Well know this: Social Media is Only reaching your current customer, those that already follow and like you, but unless you’ve got a Huge list, you’re in the fishbowl and Not in the Ocean!
There’s a sea of customers out there and that means your restaurant is missing and Not reaching all the new potential customers that have never heard of you and don’t yet follow you on social media.
So here’s what to do. Listen to today’s episode. I’m talking to Mr. Erik Shellenberger, of Bar Marketing Basics, an expert at reaching new customers for your restaurant or bar.. He’s going to show us exactly where you need to be focusing your Marketing resources to get out of the fishbowl and into the ocean.
Also.... If your starting a brand new restaurant or have recently opened a place and your feeling overwhelmed, you’re in the weeds and you just know your missing some important pieces… you gotta check this out
Ill be sharing 3 Secrets That will absolutely make all the difference for great success in this business!
I’ll be teaching you: ”How To Know And Review Your Critical Restaurant Numbers In Ten Minutes Per Week." Even if you hate numbers, I make it super simple
“How To Build A Dream TeamStaff And Double Sales Through Empowerment, Recognition & Rewards." Im giving you a roadmap to the foundation of every successful business
"How To Drive New And Repeat Business While Building Strong Customer Loyalty To Your Restaurant" - Its all about satisfied loyal customers, getting them to come back and tell their friends.
REGISTER HERE: restaurantrockstars.com/wildlysuccessful
And this next webinar is for any owner or restaurant manager I don’t care how long you’ve been in the business… recognize that your staff make or break your restaurant and sales are the lifeblood of your business… this webinar is the key to both
FREE WEBINAR: How To Build Your Dream Team, Double Sales and Get Rave Reviews
"How the Common Approach to Restaurant Hiring is the WRONG Approach." Don’t Make this mistake folks.. watch to find out the right way!
"How to Build your “Dream-Team” Staff, Cut Turn-over & Empower your team to think like owners." Again your staff and how you train them makes all the difference
"How to Double SalesThrough Training, Recognition & Rewards." Who doesn’t want to double sales..
REGISTER HERE: restaurantrockstars.com/dreamteam
Episode #139 - You’re in the business of Opportunity…
Don’t just sit inside your place and wait for them to come in. Go out and get your customer, then make them loyal ambassadors!
Opportunity is upon you and it starts now…there’s a ton of business coming your way! Starting in just two under two weeks and right through the holidays!
How are you going to get customers in your door? Once you have their attention, how are you going to make every customer count? Now and in the future?
Listen up as I’m giving you 5 Big Ideas and even a bonus that you can execute right now…
Don’t leave opportunity (and CASH) on the table!
Go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
The labor shortage is Not going away! But your approach to this challenge can either be “Woe is Me” or “I’ve Got This”. Its your choice.
Give a listen to today’s episode as I offer a proven way to Fight Fire with Fire when hiring staff for your restaurant. Stop hiring warm bodies and anyone with a pulse.
I know when staffing is tight, it's tempting but I assure you this approach is going to be disastrous to your business. This only leads to hiring the wrong people who will kill morale and turn off your customers!
Know that you can build your own restaurant “Dream-Team” and I can show you how. It’s all about a different approach that will pay huge dividends in lower turnover, happier staff, thrilled customers and a ringing cash register.
BTW, I offer a proven solution to the above at the end of the podcast, so make sure you stick around til the end.
Don’t miss it!
Roger
For all tools and resources visit: Restaurant Rockstars Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Episode #137 - You have to listen to today’s episode. Restaurant Rock Stars is now based in one of the hottest restaurant towns in America and the takeaways from this dining experience say it all about SERVICE and will get you thinking about customer take-aways in your own place.
Join Thea and I as we rave AND rant about our experiences at 3 different restaurants in Portland, Maine… the differences are that dramatic!
I won’t give away the key-learnings here, you’ll have to listen to find out, but I will ask that if you like the episode and what you’re hearing on this podcast that you take a moment to give us a review on iTunes.. It will help other operators, their managers and staff find us.
Stay tuned as we’re also announcing a couple of free game-changing webinars that are sure to make a big difference for your operation.
Here are the URL’s so you can register: How To Build Your Dream Team, Double Sales and get rave reviews - https://restaurantrockstars.com/dreamteam How to Start and Run a WILDLY Successful Restaurant - https://restaurantrockstars.com/wildlysuccessful
And if you have an idea you’d like us to talk about in an upcoming episode, drop me a line at roger@restaurantrockstars.com
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
EPISODE #136 - That’s right, the Greatest Rock N Roll band actually has a lesson for the restaurant game and you’ll have to listen to this episode to find out.
But first lets change your way of thinking and possibly your approach to service.
Every seat and every table in your operation represents valuable real estate and opportunity… opportunity to create a loyal regular customer and opportunity to SELL!
Every day your staff are either building your brand, affinity with your customer and check averages or losing customers and this opportunity.
It all comes down to training and not just the basics of service, but more importantly Salesmanship!
This is a powerful episode with lots of actionable take-away AND if you want my 3 Secrets to capture this magic in your restaurant: https://go.restaurantrockstars.com/dreamteam
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #135 - The absolute first and lasting impression of your restaurant is your Ambiance. From the moment, a customer walks in your door they get an immediate feeling that speaks volumes about your concept or theme. What does the vibe say about your your place and does it bring the customer back again and again?
Well whether your starting a new place or you’ve been in business for years, maybe you’re thinking about creating some new excitement.
Today I’m talking with Belinda O’Kelly and David Kasprak, the principals of O’Kelly/Kasprak of Chicago, one of the countries hottest design firms. Belinda and David specialize in restaurant and hospitality spaces.
This episode is a world of ideas and inspiration. Give it a listen, then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
EPISODE #134 - If your restaurant doesn’t deliver, you’’re missing out on a hassle-free new source of sales and with today’s technology, without the high cost or the risk of doing it yourself. I’m a huge believer in multiple profit centers in any restaurant or hospitality enterprise and here’s one you’ve gotta check out!
Today, I’m talking with Mr. Zack Martin the Founder and CEO of OrderOut. He’s revolutionized a way to accept delivery orders from all the major platforms while eliminating the tablet… Its a seamless delivery hub that works with all the major POS systems and eliminates the need for your staff to manually input orders - even special orders are flagged for more attention from your crew…
They’ve worked in the trenches with real restaurants in the real world and thought of everything so you know ifs going to work for you Its super-easy to get up and running ASAP and there’s even a free online demo to see for yourself: hello@orderout.co ROCK ON! ROGER
Episode #133 -Know this, “paramount” service is everything in your restaurant. Deliver anything less and your customers will talk… Immediately, their experience at your place is all over social media and online review platforms. You can lose your good reputation and customers at your restaurant’s peril.
Know that customers choose their experiences from word of mouth and online reviews… it will always be so.
The only offense is also a good defense… take a long walk around every area of your operation. Start with your entrance and miss nothing the guest will see.
Most importantly, shadow your service team. Know that what they say and do can either get you to return and leave a positive review or sabotage your business.
Take a listen to my recent experience….
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #132 - Soul and Passion are foundational to your customer’s experience! Innovation Rules! Useful defines your brand and ensures continued relevance with your guest! These are critical ingredients to your magic restaurant formula. Give today’s episode a listen as I’m speaking with Ben Gaddis, the President of one of the world’s Top innovation agencies counting some of the world’s most powerful brands as clients.
We’ll talk digital marketing, online ordering, delivery, leading-edge loyalty programs and much more that shape and grow the all-important relationship between your operation and your customer.
It’s a game-changer. You can find and follow Ben on Twitter @bendgaddis and @T3ThinkTank or Facebook at T3ThinkTank
Now Go Out There and ROCK Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #131 -Restaurants are fickle! Some are wildly successful for a variety of reasons. Others fail miserably in a short period of time for different reasons. This is a high-risk business, perhaps the riskiest and most challenging. If you’ve committed tremendous time and money to your dream, don’t increase your risk by neglecting what’s really important. Instead, give yourself every advantage.
It all comes down to 3 things - 3 powerful ideas I call the Foundational Fundamentals.
Follow these 3 and the competition will eat your dust!
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #130 - We all eat out in a variety of restaurants from time to time and being in the business, its only natural to form strong objective opinions of how well the other guys do it. We critique everything from our fresh perspective.. the food, the service, the atmosphere and curb appeal. Funny thing, this doesn’t always happen in evaluating our own operation. Its so easy to get so close to our business that we miss many fine details.
Well once again, I’m on the road driving cross-country. I had a chance to eat out several times a day in a wide variety of places. So today, I’m telling you about two dining experiences that really stood out for different reasons. I hope it helps you take a fresh look at your restaurant or hospitality enterprise, and give you some food for thought.
If you like what you’re hearing on our podcast, please give us a review on iTunes, like us on facebook and twitter and for LOTS of powerful restaurant ideas, free resources and helpful tools, please visit us at restaurantrockstars.com
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
EPISODE #129 - Of the thousand details in running your restaurant, beware of your customers Pet Peeves
This episode is all about the details.. the important impressions each member of your staff and every detail make with your customer.
Put yourself in your customer’s shoes and dine in your restaurant… do this often, sit in different sections and even visit the bar as a customer. Then get together with your team and discuss the details you experienced. Follow it up with a discussion of recent experiences in other restaurants. Would you go back there?
Everyone’s opinion counts, so fix what’s broken before the customer sees it.
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger More Resources: https://restaurantrockstars.com
Episode #128 - I’m betting you’re a “beer fan”. Just about everyone loves beer!
Well today I’m talking with a certified beer judge, internationally acclaimed beer writer and just plain expert and connoisseur of all things beer.
Mr. Don Tse has literally tasted his way around the world sampling 20,000 different beers. We’ll talk about that.
You’re also going to learn how to curate a great beer list, the basics of serving the freshest beer with great customer service AND, the power of starting a Mug Club in your place… If you want a turn-key tool to help you start your own club, here’s the link:
https://academy.restaurantrockstars.com/mug-club
Now go out there and ROCK your RESTAURANT! Roger
I’m not kidding, close your eyes and Imagine an Iceberg… now Imagine Doubling your restaurant’s sales!
Now that I’ve got your attention, give this episode a listen. I’m sharing one of my most powerful Sales & Service teqniques that you can execute immediately to deliver amazing dining experiences while dramatically increasing sales!
I’ve always believed that “Order Takers” in restaurants deliver Ordinary Experiences. Why not be about creating Extraordinary guest service? To do this, your staff need to take your customer on what I call “the Magical Journey”… that is telling them everything that makes your restaurant and what you serve unique, special and enjoyable.
Here’s a way to do just that while watching your guests smile and cash register ring.
And please mark it on your calendar, for our upcoming Free WEBINAR: “How to Start & Run a Wildly Successful Restaurant!”
Here’s a link to reserve your spot: https://go.restaurantrockstars.com/webinar
Now go out there and ROCK Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #126 - 100% no B.S....this is an absolute must listen... From pitfalls and major struggles to straight out theft & fraud, you'll learn how I built my successful restaurants from a bold dream and no practical experience to a wildly successful multi-million dollar exit.
In this action-packed episode, my friend and fellow industry pro Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com interviews me for his podcast and we discuss my crazy restaurant journey and how the systems I created led to Double the Net Profit of the average restaurant and national press acclaim. It's sure to keep you captivated while also scratching out a notepad full of ideas to implement at your operation.
In Jaime’s words this episode will kick some ass...
Whether you’re just starting your first place or a seasoned operator, don’t miss my free webinar “How to Start and Run a Wildly Successful Restaurant” at this link: https://go.restaurantrockstars.com/webinar I’ll be sharing my 3 Secrets to fantastic success!
And don’t forget, our Summer Sale is coming to an end soon. You can still save huge on some of our most popular restaurant training tools and systems for a limited time. Check it out here: https://restaurantrockstars.com/shop-1/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
EPISODE #125 - Social Media may possibly be your restaurants Most Powerful Marketing Strategy..
There’s Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter and by the end of the day there’ll be a couple more.. which ones are important? All of them…
You can be sure that your customers are spending lots of time posting, tweeting, snapping or whatever, and if you ‘re not on these platforms, you’ll miss out on lots of new and repeat business. Why? Because, Social Media and Online reviews are one of the main determinants if not THE Determinant of where people go out to eat.
Give a listen to this episode for the solution.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Episode #124 - My guest today is a real Restaurant Rock Star. After 9 short years with virtually no restaurant industry experience, Mr. Roger Perry of the Datz Group in Tampa Florida is now turning the restaurant scene upside down with several exciting concepts.
Listen as Roger tells us how opening a bakery solved a critical problem and future threat to that first restaurant. We speak about cutting edge marketing, building a culture of hospitality and family, and how staying hands-on in this most challenging business with the right systems are the keys to success.
This episode is chock full of powerful new ideas to improve your operation, stay relevant and ahead of your competition.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #123 - Scorpions? Listen to the episode to find out why! If you’re running a restaurant, you have to stay relevant your loyal audience and always be reaching ahead of the curve.
Today I’m talking with Mr. Lee Zucker and Mr. Rev Ciancio from Yext.com who are Digital Knowledge Management Experts. Forget the fancy title for a moment, they’re all about Maximizing your brand presence and message consistently no matter where the customer searches to find you. This goes far beyond your website.
Give a listen as today we’re talking online review strategies, online ordering, driving loyalty and repeat business and most importantly marketing like a big brand without the big brand budget. And yes we’ll also talk about why scorpions on your menu will drive business.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
LEE • https://www.linkedin.com/in/leezucker • https://twitter.com/leezucker • https://www.instagram.com/leezucker/
REV • https://www.linkedin.com/in/revciancio/ • https://twitter.com/revciancio • https://www.instagram.com/revciancio/ • https://www.facebook.com/revdavidciancio/
YEXT • https://twitter.com/yext • https://www.facebook.com/YextInc/ • https://www.instagram.com/yextinc/
Episode #122 - Mr. Ian Maksik is a true hospitality “legend” and tireless industry innovator. He’s been called “America’s Service Guru & Professor of Service”.
Imagine rising from the kitchen of his family’s humble Brooklyn restaurant at age 4 to professional waiter, manager, event planner, caterer and restaurateur. Remarkably Ian will share how his family transformed their early hot dog stand into the “World’s Largest Nightclub”, serving 6,000 people every Saturday night. His story only gets better!
Listen as Ian shares his greatest nuggets of service wisdom from a seven decade career still going strong!
Episode #121 - One simple word can transform your staff and your business, creating sales and service magic!
This one idea may be the most powerful change you make that creates an unstoppable brand and culture within your restaurant. Give today’s episode a listen as Thea and I share the “key” to truly dominating your competition.
All it takes is a game plan, consistency and a passion to deliver amazing dining experiences. Do this and I guarantee your cash register will RING! And about that one word… you’ll have to listen to find out!
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #120 - The Help Wanted Sign is Dead! There I’ve said it.
I’ve always believed that the Help Wanteds are a great way to find someone else’s problems and just because you need a new hire, the wrong person won’t be doing your business any favors. I learned long ago that a C-Player can absolutely sabotage your customer’s experience and your business. Don’t let it happen to you.
So here’s a paradigm shift. Give this episode a listen as today I’m talking to a superstar recruiting expert. Mr. Mike Durre shares his “secret sauce” to finding key personnel from a GM, to Chef to line positions.
We discuss the difference between Hiring and Recruiting, the mistakes many restaurant owners and GM’s make when filling an open position and how to build your restaurant “Dream Team”.
Nothing is more important to your operation than finding, developing, recognizing and rewarding the best talent possible. Believe me, your customers know the difference.
If Mike can be of service, reach out at: mike@dineinnrecruiting.com or check out their website www.dineinnrecruiting.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #119 - Why would you spend money on traditional advertising when you can build an unstoppable brand from the inside out?
Heres a TWIST many restaurants miss. There are so many ways you can leverage your restaurant’s LOGO while promoting everything that’s special about your place… and don’t forget your restaurant’s unique “Hooks”.
Give a listen to today’s episode as Thea and I riff on the power of your logo which is the true foundation of your marketing, to powerful promotional ideas that capture the public’s imagination, create that BUZZ and get them talking.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
We're launching our Mug Club Masterclass...everything you need to know to start a super profitable mug club that costs you virtually nothing to start! Check out our website for details! (www.restaurantrockstars.com)
Episode #118 - It's rare that a restaurant training idea really blows me away, but this one is pretty AMAZING.
Today’s episode is all about Innovation & Empowerment… This powerful combination is helping a Massachusetts restaurant energize its staff, drive new business and take teamwork to a whole new dimension.
Your team represent your brand and make or break your operation. Once you hire a great staff, you need to continually inspire, teach, motivate and lead… then Get Out of the Way!
Imagine staff that think and act like owners. A team that can tap into and create new opportunity for their restaurant.
Its happening here and the idea opens up all sorts of new possibilities in this business.
Don’t miss this one!
Roger
Episode #117 - Most restaurants want to turn their tables over and over, but again this one has so much space, they just keep packing them in and keeping them. So what keeps them busy? EXPERIENCES! On top of a James Beard Award-Winning Chef and lots of menu variety for both food and drink, this place serves up lots of FUN! Check this out. Here’s a place taking major cities by storm and growing fast and huge. Imagine a 20,000+ square foot space with day and nighttime appeal from different demographic audiences. A place where customers gather and then have lots of reasons to eat, drink and linger. That’s right linger.
You’ll have to give this episode a listen to learn all about it and when you do, your gears are probably going to start turning with lots of fresh ideas for your own place
This restaurant concept truly ROCKS! Roger
I’ve started multiple concepts… some Rock N Rolled right from the get-go. Another needed a total about face and re-branding, while yet another never really got legs and I had to sell it.
Point is, there are thousands of details that play into the concept of a restaurant. These details determine whether you catch the public’s imagination, their dining dollar and repeat business, tread water or possibly go under. I’ve seen and done both.
Give a listen as Thea and I discuss different concepts, the things that make them work or Not, special “hooks” and lots of ideas to consider that impact your guest’s experience.
Your concept matters. Remember, customers are either in your seats or the place down the street.
Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #115 - This critical ingredient of any successful long-term brand is something found in every restaurant, but it just comes down to whether we choose to maximize its potential or Not! This decision either leads to stellar success or in some cases, dismal failure.
Give this episode a listen. I’m talking about the perfect synergy between building your brand, fostering an unstoppable company culture AND, the power of both combined. I believe there’s one “Key” element to this magic formula. E M P O W E R M E N T! Train your people well, give them autonomy and THEN let them loose.
They’ll not only stick around, they’ll make a huge impact on your customer’s dining habits and where they choose to go next. Remember, these customers are either in your seats or the guy down the street offering something more.
All you need to do is tap the potential and develop this ingredient for all its worth.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Roger
Epsidode #114 - The headlines today are all too common… Declining Sales and Profits, Labor hard to come by, heavy Competition. The restaurant business is difficult and getting harder every day.
But its not just about survival, its about creating and sustaining a lasting legacy. Doing that means building a powerful brand, but more importantly staying relevant in a changing industry and changing world of fickle consumers.
Not so easy as this is the business of 1000 details, but you can’t stop there. Your operation must continually step back, get a fresh perspective and continue to Innovate.
Take a listen to this episode, hear about some surprising statistics and I hope this inspires, motivates and re-energizes your entire team.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Inspiration and Opportunity are always around the next corner. Imagine you’re living in a foreign country and suddenly the lightbulb goes off. “I love this food, everyone loves this food… I could sell this anywhere”!
Next thing you know, you’re setting up shop to test your concept and you’ve got a line around the corner.. Is your idea a temporary trend or a unique new cuisine you can take across the country?
In this episode, I’m speaking with Brian Goldberg of “Mr. Bing” who’d doing just that… delivering an appealing product he discovered in the far east, growing a business and seeing how far it can go. But, before we get into that, Brian by the way is a former Olympic-caliber Luger… that super fast sport where you lie back on a tiny sled with razor sharp runners and ride it over 80 miles per hour down an icy track. Well how he ended up in the restaurant business is a great story
I won’t tell you anymore, as this episode speaks volumes of passion for this business, the fine art of entrepreneurship and brand building in one of the most highly competitive and expensive food cities on the planet.
Have a listen for yourself.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Episode Sponsor: Kabbage WHEN EXPANSION OR OPERATION REQUIRES CASH FLOW...CHECK OUT KABBAGE - see show notes for links and details.
Episode #112 - Today’s episode brings you powerhouse Chef, Television Personality, Consultant and Industry Innovator Chef David Burke who needs no introduction.
Chef Burke has cooked around the globe in countless countries, has been influenced and mentored by some of the most talented and highly recognized chefs and has opened numerous restaurants in major cities. He continues to push the envelope of cooking style, leadership, industry trends and better practices.
Listen on as we discuss formal education versus apprenticeship, opportunity and where to find it, key-learnings and practices in opening new concepts, maintaining consistency, menus and profitability, food critics, marketing and so many other inspiring topics.
Thank you Chef for a conversation that will really move the needle for our audience.
You can connect with Chef David Burke at www.chefdavidburke.com as well as on Instagram and Twitter: @chefdavidburke
Episode #111 - The restaurant business is never static. To be truly successful, you need to be ever-vigilant for new opportunities and have the ability to instantly capture this opportunity before its gone forever.
Case in point: When you’re running restaurants you’re worried about cash flow, training your people, marketing, service & sales and 1000 other critical details to not only succeed, but keep your business ahead of the competition. More often than not, this takes extra cash. So I’m super excited to introduce you to today’s guest Ms. Victoria Treyger of Kabbage who can help with just that and fast! As you’ll see, Victoria has led many successes for some of the world’s leading companies.. Travelocity, Amazon and American Express to name just a few, so its a true testament that she’s now with Kabbage making restaurant dreams reality.
Whether you see a significant expansion, need new equipment, want to hire a manager or key-staffer or just some money to get you over a temporary hump, you need to know about Kabbage. Kabbage provides restaurants and over a hundred thousand other small businesses an almost instant Line of Credit for any reason up to $250,000.
Listen as Victoria explains the simple application, lighting-fast approval, flexibility and ease of getting the cash your restaurant or hospitality operation needs. I’m proud to introduce Kabbage as a sponsor of the Restaurant Rock Stars Podcast, as I know from first-hand experience the power of extra money and what you can accomplish. And don’t miss the video below that exemplifies the true passion and possibility one owner and Kabbage customer is realizing.
Check out www.kabbage.com/restaurantrockstars and get a $50 Gift Card when you qualify
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #110 - There are many ways to manage a team. There are leaders, there are managers and everything in between. Successful operators know instinctively that our people are the cornerstone of our business and determine the ultimate customer experience. This in turn determines our success or potential failure.
It all begins with how we hire, nurture and develop our team. Once this is in place, necessary policy and procedures keeps things on track and a culture begins to build. Important stuff and one of the most important of the 1,000 details to running restaurants.
Listen to today’s episode as a restaurant veteran turned HR professional shares her wisdom and nuggets from decades in the heart of our business. I’m sure the take-away will give you all food for thought, new ideas and best practices.
Reach out to Carrie Luxem at carrieluxem.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieluxem/ or http://restauranthrgroup.com/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Roger
This episode is sponsored by Kabbage. Looking for a small business loan to get the working capital you need? Why is Kabbage is the fastest and simplest way to get funding for your business? Learn More: https://www.kabbage.com/restaurantrockstars
Staying ahead of the competition, having a vision and finding new ways to increase customer excitement, loyalty and sales is why we’re in business. Its what keeps us going everyday in a highly competitive industry. Unless your place is Rockin and Rolling, what’s the point?
Talking about vision, some ideas have great potential and others may never fly, but the one’s that do may launch your restaurant into great successes and even an empire. So never stop dreaming and every once in awhile get the team together and brainstorm. Nothing is too crazy.
Today’s episode is all about big ideas and ways we can utilize cash investments to build a stronger restaurant and more powerful brand. And its also opportune timing that this episode is sponsored by Kabbage. If you need quick cash and immediate approval for up to $250,000, check out Kabbage. You can get a $50 gift card if approved for any amount and while your’re at it, take a look at this quick video (https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/episode-109-its-all-about-cash-flow-and-roi). I think you’ll really appreciate the spirit of Jacie at her three restaurants and what Kabbage is doing to grow her business.
Rock on! Roger
Episode #108 - I’m all about building a “Brand” and not running a restaurant… going a bit further. I advocate being an entrepreneur, not a restaurant owner.
With that said, one of the most powerful brand-builders I know (not to mention staff pleasers) is creating several “Big Events” throughout the year around holidays and big sports events. Whether you have a food truck or a full-serve restaurant, you can decorate your place to the “9’s”, have your staff dress up in themed costume, offer “event specials”, have live entertainment and watch your the customers pour in and your cash register light up!
Give this episode a listen as I take you through many of the key-holidays and big events that will drive new and repeat business and make your place more money several times a year!..
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #107 - Yikes! It's tax crunch time!! What do you need to do throughout the year to put your business in the best tax position before you file.
Many of you may be last minute filers and you can still get the job done. But if not, no worries… know that you have until September to file an extension. If you do, you can still take full advantage of all the advice in today’s episode.
Listen to Mr. Tony Perricelli. He’s a CPA and Tax Expert with many restaurant and hospitality clients. (and a repeat guest from episode #76), He knows our business and is a tremendous resource and wealth of information. We discuss last minute tips for 2017, big changes from the Trump Administration for 2018 that can be a real benefit to your business and much more.
If you’re looking for an experienced hospitality CPA, Tony’s your man. See my show notes for links to Tony's contact info and his article: “5 Things Every Hospitality Business Owner Should Consider in the Tax Reform Law” https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #106 - Its no secret, I’m all about dominating the competition! That’s the fun part… a big reason to be in business and that’s what separates the business owners from the entrepreneurs.
We’ve all been to those rockin restaurants that have the triple combination of food, service and ambiance. You know, you can feel the magic going on and usually there’s a long wait for a table no matter what day it is. All three of those elements are important to real success and most of the time I say that service is a true competitive advantage, but lets focus on the ambiance.
Ambiance, your “hooks” and WOW Factor are what get people talking and better yet online posting, creating and sustaining a buzz for your place. But it takes more than just cosmetics. Its really about getting into the heads of your target audience and your regulars. What are they jazzed about? Is it lifestyle, is it something they can relate to? Or is it just delivering an all around great experience?
Its really all these things combined. There is no magic formula to Rock Your Restaurant… there are ideas, there are systems, there’s vision, but most of all it comes down to execution.
Check out this episode as Thea and I riff on what it means to build a brand. Give a listen, you just might get your next big idea that inspires your success.
Roger
Episode #105 Its no secret that your staff hold the “key” to your restaurant’s success.. Whether you run a food truck, coffee shop or sit down place, your team are either building your brand or giving customers reasons to visit your competitors.
We all been to those restaurants that are just firing on all cylinders… the place is alive, fun and staff are shining. Let’s call this staff magic. You’ll know you’ve arrived when your team are having more fun and making more money and your customers are having more fun and spending more money. This is the “Ureka” moment I call capturing Lightning in a Bottle and its the most powerful form of marketing out there. When your staff are making friends with your customers every day and both your staff and customers are spreading the word about your place, your building an unstoppable brand, especially in this age of online reviews and social media.
So give this episode a listen where Thea, (my wife and V.P. of Restaurant Rock Stars) and I share what that staff magic is all about, how to create team chemistry and most important how to build a culture of hospitality, family and fun.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger & Thea
Episode #104 - My wife and I have restaurant conversations all the time. Usually, its about a recent dining experience we shared. We usually agree on the service received, but not always on the establishment’s execution of the critical details.
There is no magic formula for restaurant success and certainly no crystal ball to predict the future. Sometimes its a matter of opportunity, luck, vision or all of the above.
One thing you can count on is that knowledge will always be power! Your approach and execution of this knowledge will likely determine your ultimate success or failure.
So today’s episode is all about the different reasons people start restaurants, their varying “zones of excellence” and degree of knowledge that is either advantage or hindrance. Where they might excel and where they’ll run into trouble without the necessary expertise.
Stay tuned as Thea (Restaurant Rockstars Co-Founder, V.P. and My Wife) and I offer opinion and fact. As always, food for thought...
Rock Your Restaurant, Roger
Epsiode #103 - In my book, there are three “Foundational Fundamentals” to running a successful, highly profitable restaurant or hospitality enterprise. Much like the foundation of a building, they are each supportive and reliant upon each other for maximum strength.
I rank these three in order of importance as follows:
1) Staff Development, Training, Recognition and Rewards: Your staff are the cornerstone of your business, affect your ultimate success and if nurtured effectively, become the driving force behind your “Brand”.
2) Cost Controls & Profit Maximization: Hospitality is not merely about serving food & drink, but about running a bottom-line focused business. If you’re unaware of the numbers and what you sell is not profitable, it doesn’t matter how busy your operation is!
and
3) Marketing & Affinity: To dominate your competition, you need to get outside the four walls of your business and find new ways of connecting with more customers, make them feel a sense of belonging and give them many reasons to spread the word.
I love getting together with my friend and industry “Pro” Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and www.restaurantreport.com He and I frequently put our heads together and riff on a variety of issues you’re facing today that will help you strengthen your operation. Head on over to Jaime’s sites for tremendous resources to help you knock it out of the park.
Listen to today’s episode as the numerous ideas we discuss will be a new foundation to greater success for your business.
Master these three fundamentals and you will truly Rock Your Restaurant.
I travel the country often, have many opportunities to dine out and formulate many personal opinions.
Ambiance usually plays a huge factor in how I first choose a restaurant whether driving by or googling a cuisine, the vibe matters to me. Once I walk in the door and get past the atmosphere, I pay close attention to the interaction I receive from the front of house team, because I am quite biased about service also. My expectations here are through the roof after two decades of personally training my staff. When it comes to the menu, I’m not soley a sophisticated “foodie”, but love all types of good food, so this part of the magic restaurant formula is also important. I believe most diners are looking for all three of the above: “Food, Service & Ambiance” when they select a restaurant to eat out, so this should be top of mind in the total experience you provide your guests.
Restaurateurs can be somewhat biased about their operation, thinking “I’ve got this”! To be honest, I was like that too for many years, but came around to fresh thinking. That is, taking a big step back from the place and seeing what the guest sees. This is the first step in building and sustaining a powerful brand!
If you do this, will you see an exciting, dynamic place that guests are still raving about many years after opening, or a restaurant that could use not just a fresh coat of paint, but an overall start from scratch makeover?
Give this episode a listen, then sit down with your team and discuss fresh ideas. From mild to wild, change is good, You can be sure your customer will notice and spread the word.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Two “key-foundations” for any successful business are offering Paramount Service and true “Value for the Dollar” with consistency every customer, every time. Unfortunately, missing one or both combined is all too common in service businesses. The end-result is that both the customer experience and the business’ cash register suffer the consequences.
This past weekend, my young daughters and I travelled to Jackson Hole, WY where we experienced far differing service and value at many different types of businesses, restaurants and hotels included. Granted this is a high-traffic year-round tourist destination, and certain businesses may mistakenly believe that repeat business is not as essential as it is in any-town USA, but in the age of on-line reviews this is dangerous thinking. In two of our experiences, these blatant “misses” were so obvious that even my kids were surprised. They had words to say both to me and in online review sites for these businesses.
The bottom line is this: Service and value are the cornerstone of your business image and reputation! Every customer has expectations that are either met, exceeded or fall short. The first line of “offense” is of course your staff. Train them well and train daily in the finer points of paramount service and then as owner or manager, personally audit your service and value equation on a regular basis.
Listen as my youngest daughter tells all about her reasonable expectations, disappointments, excitement and satisfaction from a few of our different experiences in Jackson Hole.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant. Roger
Episode #100!! WOW guys, this is our 100th episode of the podcast. Its amazing its been 2 1/2 years and there is still so much depth to our industry and so more to bring you. Service, Finance, Marketing & Operations tips to help you Rock Your Restaurant! Thank you so much for your kind words and appreciation.
You have to listen to this Big 100 podcast. I have known Mr. Fred Forsley for over 20 years and have watched in awe and admiration as he has built a hospitality empire, from restaurants, to brewery operations, partnerships with the biggest names in beer, to inns and real estate projects on a national and international level.
You’ll hear his early inspirations and success, major deals gone awry, optimism for future projects and how he maintains direction with his partners and hundreds of employees across numerous operations. Above all, Fred is regular guy you’d like to have a beer with. He’s humble, appreciative of other’s efforts and contributions and well-liked and respected by all who meet him.
Its been my pleasure to know and learn from Fred over the years and I just knew that he would be the perfect guest for this most important milestone episode.
You can connect with Fred at fforsley@shipyard.com or www.facebook.com/fforsley
Stay tuned for the next 100. It’s gonna be a ride! Roger
Episode #99 - In the restaurant business, SERVICE is UNIVERSAL. It all comes down to the people you hire, develop & train and the experiences you provide your customer.
It doesn't matter if you have a full-serve restaurant with table service, a food truck or a quick-serve concept with a drive through and counter service, the bottom line is the guest experience. Its plain and simple. To be truly successful in this business, you need to be passionate about providing a higher standard of service.
Imagine every restaurant in the world was your competition - even the absolute best 5 star establishments. What will you do today to rise above this competition?
Listen to this episode, rally the team and raise your own bar because the ultimate competitive advantage is SERVICE.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #98 - I’m sure you remember the Kevin Costner film “Field of Dreams” and the famous line “If you build it, they will come”. But, in the world of running restaurants, the reality is “If you build it, your work is just beginning”.
I work with many new restaurant owners and sometimes I am surprised by their approach and understanding of what it means to be a business owner or further, what it means to be an entrepreneur. There is huge difference in those two definitions. Either way, you take a risk to create a new enterprise and everything is on the line until you reach profitability. You can’t just sit back and expect the customers and dollars to roll in.
One of my mantras is “Be a Student of your Restaurant”. Whether you’re a new or seasoned operator, there is never an end to the learning curve and at the very least there are 3 “Key-Fundamentals” every restaurateur or should I say entrepreneur should understand and master. These are the keys to true success in the restaurant business, but one really stands out from the rest.
Give this episode a listen then go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #97 For nearly two decades, I got used to doing bar inventory the hard way. That’s right, I looked at all the different shaped liquor bottles and took my best guess. .2 on the Absolute, .7 on the Jack Daniels. I even lifted the kegs by hand and gave them a shake. The Sam Adams feels half full, but the Stella maybe only a quarter. This is how most of us take inventory.
Unless you’ve invested a small fortune in one of those electronic devices that accurately measures out every pour and then tells you what’s left in each bottle, you’re probably still doing it this way… the old school way. That is, if you take inventory at all. I still see lots of places not completing this most important of all details on a regular basis. Truth is, they have absolutely no idea of their true beverage cost and the same goes with the food, at their peril. I believe this is the kiss of death in this business.
Well if any of this sounds like you, its your lucky day. My guest in this episode is Dave Allred from barpatrol.net. Not only is Dave a veteran operator still running his own place, but he’s helped countless other places systemize their own inventories. Now, he’s invented a cracker-jack “APP”, that’s the absolute easiest way to take both your food & drink inventory. Its a system made simple that will free your time for the thousand other important details of running your place. But best of all, this APP makes inventory as accurate as you can get it.
Give today’s episode a listen and then go to www.barpatrol.net and schedule a free “Screenshare Demo” live with Dave. You’ll see what I mean and after this, I’ll be surprised if you go back to the way thing were.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant. Roger
Episode #96 - We all dine out from time to time and I’m willing to bet that your experiences vary from restaurant to restaurant. I’m also betting that you critique each experience. If you’re in the business, its only natural. What are they doing right… what would I do different?
Well, I may be a bit biased, because I always put a premium on regular and intensive staff training in my restaurants. Its a point of pride, to have each and every staffer deliver amazing dining experiences AND make friends every night for your restaurant. Is there any other way?
I’m so often amazed that not every operator shares this philosophy and even if they do, sometimes the restaurant is running them and not the other way around.
Give a listen to this episode. Yikes, unfortunately, Its a true story that we can all learn from, but mostly its about what should never happen in your operation. It won’t if you put a premium on training and service also.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant. Roger
Free Gift: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Episode #95 - As technology continually moves forward, and there’s a APP for everything, it strikes me that human interaction can sometimes be replaced. This is not always for the best.
In the Hospitality business, I have mixed feelings. True Hospitality is at the very core of what we do, and I am an absolute believer in what I call “paramount service”. In many cases and in many of our first-hand experiences, its evident that true hospitality is being lost. Decades ago, hospitality was experienced everywhere from the gas station to the dry cleaner to restaurants, regardless of price point.
I am also a huge believer in the fundamentals. Hands-on understanding and execution of all aspects of running a hospitality operation by the both the owner and management team. I’m talking about the foundational basics of Finance, Marketing and of course Staff Training and ultimate Service delivery. Its perfectly’ fine to automate your business and use technology and systems to improve, but not at the expense of understanding the core elements of your business first.
So it seemed on a recent trip to Florida last week. After several days of experiencing paramount service, my initial judgement got the better of me as I was suddenly immersed in technology.
Listen to today’s episode and see for yourself if true Hospitality is being replaced by Technology.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #94 - Menu Profit is one mission critical detail in your restaurant that you may be missing.
You may in fact have a menu that your customer’s love, but that doesn’t mean you’re making lots of money selling it! This really is common and I see it all the time in restaurant’s I work with. You’re working just as hard preparing low profit items as high profit, so you might as well give yourself every advantage.
Listen to today’s episode and I’ll give you the “key” to maximizing profit from your menu, every item every time.
Know two things, that your suppliers work for your restaurant, and they will bend over backwards to help you succeed if you simply ask.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #93 - No matter your favorite sport, you know the preparation, coaching and relentless training it takes to achieve a winning record. Its one thing to win one game and entirely another to dominate the league. Approach your restaurant training as if you are about to dominate your competition.
Of course training takes time, commitment, persistence and that all-important strategy, but I have found that nothing is more important or provides a greater R.O.I.
Give today’s episode a listen… its short, but powerful. Here, I present one of the most effective training exercises I know that’s proven to not only deliver amazing dining and service experiences, but to increase your restaurant sales. When your entire team are conditioned with product and restaurant knowledge to educate, inform and entertain each and every customer, you will have an unstoppable competitive advantage.
Do this today and every week without fail; every table, every time!
I’ll leave you with some powerful words from one of my favorite bands: “For those about to Rock, we salute you!”
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant. Roger
Episode #92 Have you ever won the lottery? Maybe not. Or if you have, it wasn’t a huge take. But I’m betting it was an instant of fun getting that ticket and scratching off those circles with a quarter.
Well, why not give your customer that same excitement each and every time they dine with you? On top of the great service, this is just one more thing they’ll remember about your place. But here’s the kicker. They won’t just remember, they’ll come back and tell their friends.
I’m not going to give you the play by play here. You’ll have to listen to this episode to get it, but I can all but guarantee this is a proven powerful marketing idea for very little money.
Everything should work this way in your restaurant and drive Return on Investment. It’s a beautiful thing.
Head on to the podcast page to grab your free gift: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Episode #91 - Folks: This is a crazy business and unless you can see around corners, the unexpected is going to happen, not to mention the thousands of details it takes to run a great restaurant. No wonder so many owners and managers are “hands-on”. You have to be .... or do you?
I love to talk about exit strategy. You should be thinking right now what it will take to get there... even if you just opened your place for business. What I’m saying is, all it takes is a few simple “systems” that will empower your team, free your time and give you that all-important “Big Picture” view of your operation. This way you can spend more time with your family, open a new location, franchise, sell or pivot to a whole new business. No systems in place, then back to “hands-on”.
You can work 6 and 7 days a week or Not. Its your choice!
Listen to today’s episode. I’m going to give you “3” ideas to really dial in your operation and if you want the exact template to execute these ideas, I’ve got your back.
Check out the Restaurant Rock Stars ACADEMY: https://academy.restaurantrockstars.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #90 - Its no secret that I’m obsessed with Profits. Always have been since running my restaurants and now, I’m just as obsessed for my clients and other restaurant’s profit.
The alarming fact is, so many restaurants Don’t have a Profitable Menu. Some items may contribute a decent profit, but as it turns out, far less profitable menu items are bigger sellers that are stealing sales from the More Profitable Items. When this happens, the restaurant is just spinning wheels working just as hard for Less Profit. That’s why I say, you can have a busy restaurant and still not be making any money. Why, when there’s a simple solution?
Listen to today’s episode. It will not only give you the step by step detail on finding out the profitability of your menu, but what to do about it if its Not!
Don’t make the same mistakes so many restaurants are making with their current menu or new menus, as often as they change. Now’s the time to become obsessed with profit and your own restaurant menu.
As a thank you for liking the podcast, grab my free gift at: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Now Go Out There and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #89 - After running restaurants for over 2 decades and over-seeing all ages of staff working the floor, I can honestly say that Millennials are no different from any other age group. It’s the approach you use with any staff member that makes all the difference.
Lead by example is almost a cliche, but think about it…Do your staff regularly see you: Bus a table? Clean a bathroom? Wash the windows? Expedite the food?
If not, they should.
It’s more than just a point of pride, it’s a simple tried and true motivator and one that has worked for all generations!
Today’s episode is all about reinventing your restaurant and your management style.
Listen as I share 3 simple best practices to inspire, raise the bar on service and get your team working together to over deliver and beat the competition.
And yes it works for Millennials too!
By the way, if you enjoy the podcast please subscribe on iTunes and if you find the content helpful, please leave a review.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
As a thank you for listening, grab this FREE TRAINING:: 3 Things You Must Do Right Now To Make Your Restaurant More Money! https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Episode #88 - I admit it. I’m very biased about service. But the truth is, if you’re in this business, you should be too.
Long ago I learned that Hospitality is Absent when something happens “TO” You and Hospitality is Present when something happens “FOR” you. Unfortunately, exemplary service is the exception and not the rule and some time ago that basic concept of Hospitality has all but disappeared and I frequently ask “What happened to the Service in a Service business”? Every restaurant owner, manager and staff person, front or back of house, should take this lesson to heart.
Listen to my latest episode as I detail (in this business of 1000 details), how a true “Team Approach” to service knocked my socks off, made my entire travel experience to this fair city and will long into the future remind me of the real definition of Hospitality.
My hope is that one listener and one restaurant at a time in this huge industry change their approach to service, taking valuable and actionable lessons from Jimm’s Steakhouse in Springfield, MO Their customers, their suppliers and the industry as a whole will only stand to benefit.
As a thank you for listening to the podcast, grab my free gift on the podcast page: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #87 - I can’t tell you how many times I come across businesses of all types that sit around waiting for customers to come through the door… not only that, they’re spending thousands of dollars on traditional advertising. Spending, spending and hoping for the best! What a waste!
Today’s episode throws that idea out the window and presents an easily actionable and proven way to bring thousands of new dollars in the door. All by building relationships with other non-competing businesses and leveraging their customers to become your new customers… UREKA!
In your own restaurant, when was the last time you walked outside your door and found new customers down the street, across town or even tourists passing through? Listen to the nuts and bolts of this very simple yet extremely effective marketing strategy for full-serve restaurants. You’ll be cashing in coupons and thanking me all the way to your bank.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #86 - Your time is valuable and this business is demanding, so I love having guests that cut right to the chase and spell out powerful nuggets of wisdom to help you run a super successful hospitality operation.
My expert today, Mr. Erik Shellenberger weaves his decades of restaurant experience, from the trenches to management with a rare expertise in social media, web design and S.E.O., online reviews and brand building. He’s going to cut the fluff and give us the basic foundations of success in all these areas.
So many restaurants are missing the power of leveraging internal marketing.. that is everything we can do for FREE to increase guest counts, turn our staff into brand ambassadors and deliver a high level of personal service. Treat every customer including the first time customer as if they were a regular or an old friend, both online and n your restaurant.
As a thank you for listening to the podcast, grab my free gift in the show notes at: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast/
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #85 - Here’s a powerful idea that can bring your restaurant instant cash flow and build that all-important loyalty with your customer. If your restaurant sells beer & wine, I can show you how to increase your business and have your customers bring you more business.
Imagine a club where your customers pay you up front for the privilege of belonging. You offer great value for their dollar, but you give customers many reasons to come in to your place, sometimes many times a week. Not only are they paying you to belong to this club, but they’re also spending more money in your place, on food, retail merchandise and more. Better yet, they’re telling their friends to join and these friends in turn are paying you money up front and spending lots of money each week in your place. That’s called a multiplier effect and its one very powerful way to make money in the restaurant business…
I’m a huge believer in what I call PARAMOUNT SERVICE… treat every customer as if they were the most important customer. Today’s episode shows you how to do just that. Its the “CHEERS” formula from the popular show - people want to go where everyone knows their name!
The club I’m talking about builds “affinity” and becomes a huge draw for regulars and new business. It can quickly become your restaurant’s most powerful form of marketing. My restaurant dominated the competition for over twenty years and this is just one idea to help you do the same.
Listen to today’s episode and I’ll demonstrate how your restaurant can ring an extra $10,000, $20,000 or even $40K in new cash up front and then benefit from your club member’s additional spending and loyalty each week. Check out the video clips of my MUG CLUB in my show notes @ www.restaurantrockstars.com
Do I have your attention? Great. if you really want to run a super profitable restaurant that prints money, this is just one of dozens of ideas I teach you in my Restaurant Rock Stars “ACADEMY”. For less than a $2,000 investment in the ACADEMY, I just showed you how to make ten to twenty times that investment, not counting all the food you’ll sell too PLUS all the other powerful marketing and profit maximizing formulas. If this sounds like something you need, check out www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant… Roger
Episode #84 - One of the biggest challenges you face as an operator or manager is staffing and turnover. Its a tough labor market No Secret, but it's all about your approach to finding great staff and keeping them.
The wrong approach is thinking “I need someone NOW.. I’ll just place an ad in the paper and hang a help-wanted sign on the door”. That’s just a recipe for disaster. More than likely you’ll find someone that’s a morale killer with bad habits there just for the paycheck.
Today’s podcast gives you a better approach. Its all about finding, developing, recognizing and rewarding what I call your “A-Team”. You can find and train your own “dream team” staff that increase your sales, put out amazing food & drink and dazzle your customer. Better yet, they’ll stick around.
I learned long ago to lead by example, train A-players to develop those with great promise and then get out of their way. Give them the freedom to shine and make friends with your customers. It was the secret to my success.
Head on over and grab your free gift: The 3 Things You Must Do Right Now To Make Your Restaurant More Money - https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/getting-and-keeping-great-restaurant-staff
Episode #83 - I have always believed that the restaurant business is a performance. Its entertainment and your guest experience is ultimately determined by how you as owner or manager set the stage. I’m a huge proponent of daily staff training and whether you spend ten minutes or a half hour or more with a pre-shift meeting, nothing is more important to making every dining experience an “event” that brings your customers back again and again.
Once again, I’m collaborating with my good friend and industry pro Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com Jaime is not only a great host and commentator, but he offers a tremendous resource to anyone running restaurants. Anything you want to know or want to improve in your operation, you’ll find it there.
Listen today as Jaime and I riff on “8 Great Things to Tell Your Staff Today”… Use these nuggets of wisdom daily in your pre-shift meetings until they become routine conditioned behavior by your entire service team. Your staff will have more fun, team spirit will rise and more importantly your guests will tune in to what’s really special about your restaurant - A caring, personable staff that’s all about exemplary service.
Give this episode a listen and for more money making and saving ideas, grab my free gift over in the show notes of RR Podcast Episode #83 (www.restaurantrockstars.com)
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #82 - Long ago, I learned “You Don’t Ask, You Don’t Get”. Don’t be afraid to ask. Why? Because the most successful restaurants not only Sell a lot, they Save a lot! Its just smart business.
What am I talking about? If you run a solid food cost in your restaurant, you can actually Trade for things you normally buy for pennies on the dollar. Think of it this way, instead of paying 100% for what you need, the trade cost to your restaurant is 35% or less. That’s a Win for everyone, but your bank account will thank you.
Why not ask your suppliers for items of value. Know that their warehouses are stock full of stuff they’re not using… its just collecting dust. They’ll be glad to get rid of it and these items have great appeal to your staff and customers. Ask and then reward your employees and customers for free with great merchandise!
Know that when you build a powerful restaurant brand, you have power with suppliers and customers alike. Remember that many of the products and services you buy are a commodity available from many suppliers. Leverage that power and compare pricing on comparable quality.
Smart restaurants shop their competitors and observe menu pricing, staff training, ambiance, guest counts, etc… The well-known phrase “Knowledge is Power” is absolutely true in the restaurant business. Stay on top of the competition, play your best game and have fun doing it. Why else are you in this business?
And don’t forget to raise prices to maintain your margins. Just make sure to over deliver on the value and service equation.
Give this episode a listen and for more money making and money saving ideas, grab my free gift to you at this link: https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/thepodcast
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
EPISODE #81 - STAFF TURNOVER....NEVER AGAIN Long ago, I decided turnover was too expensive, created too many headaches and was simply unacceptable in my operation.
Turnover is a bitter pill and unfortunately a fact of life in many restaurants, but it doesn’t have to be. By shifting your strategy and approach, you too can create what I call your restaurant “Dream Team” which in turn will build your brand and give your restaurant a powerful advantage.
In this week’s action-packed episode, I demonstrate the antidote to hiring warm bodies to just fill an opening. I show you how to lead by example, develop staff that build your brand and create a culture of hospitality, family & fun. When your staff and customers are all singing your restaurant’s praises, lines form out the door and your cash register will ring.
Remember, its all about the customer and providing a consistent, memorable experience where dining out in your restaurant is an “event”. The foundation to this magic is of course your staff where every guest impression counts.
Listen as I share several ideas and strategies on recognizing, rewarding and developing your restaurant “A-TEAM”.
To really take these ideas to the next level, check out our SALES STARS turn-key front of house staff training program at this link: https://salesstars.restaurantrockstars.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant
Roger
Episode #80 - In my book, there is no more challenging business than running restaurants and I often call it the business of 1000 details. You’ve got ordering, inventory, finances, marketing. payroll and so many balls to keep in the air. So what should you focus on first?
The Foundation of your restaurant! That is, building a great staff and creating loyal satisfied customers. In a business known for high-turnover and intense competition, this is the most important detail and the place to start!
I’m always so excited to share a call with my friend and fellow industry leader Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com Jaime and I frequently collaborate on a variety of topics to help you run a stronger business and have more fun doing it. This call gives you 3 Powerful Ideas to do just that.
So give today’s episode a listen. We’re talking 3 Things to do Today that will really transform the way you do business. The way to keep the show moving forward when an employee calls in, the way the entire front of house team builds affinity with your customer and the way those customer’s reward your restaurant with their repeat business.
Head on over to the show notes for this episode to download your FREE GIFT!
https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/podcast/episode-80-these-3-things-are-vital-to-your-success
Rock On, Roger
Episode #79 - Being passionate about this business means having a passion for great service. After all, its the customer’s impression that counts and determines our ultimate success. The interaction and relationships your restaurant creates between your staff and your customer is job 1 every table, every time.
Today’s episode shares a philosophy to exemplary service which was our restaurant Mantra for two decades. A simple acronym F.A.C.E.S. built our business and our brand and no other restaurant could keep up. Our customer loyalty was that powerful.
F.A.C.E.S. stands for Friendly, Attentive, Caring, Efficient and Selling! Fact is, every day in every restaurant across America, we are seeing and serving new guests every day… new Faces, if you will. Unique faces that perhaps know nothing about our restaurants and what makes them special. New faces that you want to return. To build that all-important affinity with your customer, your entire team needs to serve each and every guest as if they were a regular. That’s where F.A.C.E.S. comes in.
Listen to how your restaurant can apply this simple approach to daily pre-shift meetings and ultimately your restaurant’s culture of Hospitality. Practice F.A.C.E.S. with every new face and you’ll create an unstoppable brand and lines out the door.
And here’s another advantage for you. As a thanks for listening, grab my free gift at this link: http://training.restaurantrockstars.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
I’ve had my share of business interruptions and natural disasters.. Two weeks out from opening my very first restaurant, flood waters came right to the front door and stopped just short of the carpet. Years later, our POS system crashed one busy night and sent my 300 seat place into complete chaos. These were relatively minor occurrences, but when a major ice storm knocked out power for 3 critical weeks, my restaurant barely survived the loss of business.
The point is, unless you can see around corners, you never know what minor and major risks are ready to happen when you least expect that can harm your operation - maybe even force you to close your doors. You would not believe the statistics of how many small businesses actually fail and never re-open following a major business disturbance. That’s why you need a solid plan to prepare for the unexpected, no matter what that could be.
In today’s episode, I speak with Lisandra Pagan, a business interruption expert who lost her own small business to an unforeseen natural disaster. Listen and learn all you can do to not only survive the unexpected, but to move forward more positively and confidently than before. Lisandra is generously offering a Free 30 minute business consultation and pre-planning session at her website www.deliberateplan.com and make sure to click her Podcast tab to listen and learn more. I can’t imagine time better spent or anything more important than protecting your business.
I hope today’s episode gives you food for thought and helps you create “Plan B”. Just for listening, I have a free gift for you at this link: http://training.restaurantrockstars.com
Go out there and “Rock Your Restaurant”.
“Get Bulletproof” is an expression that completely applies to running restaurants. The controlled chaos that comes with so many moving parts and so many individual staff, often leads to the unexpected. This can either be a temporary bump in the road or complete disaster that turns everything upside down. The point is, to run a really strong restaurant, you need to be able to see around corners. This may be the biggest challenge in the restaurant business.
Today’s episode is all about the potential pitfalls of leasing your space and being at the mercy of your landlord. All may be well for many years and then the unexpected happens.
To be truly “Bulletproof”, I recommend you explore owning your real estate and if the timing is not right today, working towards this goal for tomorrow… I’m not saying this is the correct thing to do for every situation, but this approach gives you leverage and a stronger “Exit Strategy” for your future and the future of your restaurant.
I hope today’s episode gives you food for thought and helps you run a stronger business. To help you do just that, I have a free gift for you at this link: http://training.restaurantrockstars.com
Go out there and “Rock Your Restaurant”.
Roger
Episode #76 Many of you know that I have always been super focused on the numbers and most importantly - Profits!
Now I know that many restaurant owners and managers can be overwhelmed with the numbers… This business is so challenging and can be all-consuming, and there really are a thousand ways to lose money in this business, so it only makes sense to dig deep, understand the basics and put a “PRO” in your corner!
You can’t run an effective operation without a team and one vital person on that team is your CPA and Tax Professional… but just any CPA won’t due, there is a difference.
This business has so many moving parts and its so much more than just all the tax laws that seem to change year to year. Whether you lease a space and equipment or own the real estate and hard assets, one of your most important decisions is to seek out and find a tax professional that understands the restaurant business and has many years experience working with restaurant clients.
Listen to today’s episode as I speak with Mr. Tony Perricelli, CPA and Master of Taxation. Tony serves on the Board of Directors of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association and has saved his restaurant clients many headaches, as well as hard cash.
Tony walks us through how to plan, prepare and put the books in order throughout the year for the best possible tax position and a competitive advantage.
We're going to be talking about tax deductions you can take legally whether you own or lease your property, the nuances of asset depreciation and loopholes to speed up the process to take more benefits today than in the future. We also discuss the best form of organization for your company, taking money out of your company and so much more…
Its all about making more money and keeping more money.
I can’t emphasize enough the importance of putting yourself and your staff in the customers shoes. Best case, you create affinity and truly understand why your customers are drawn to your restaurant. Worst case: You may find out why customers aren’t coming back.
This episode is all about customer Pet-Peeves. The most minute details affect the guest’s impressions of your operation and these impressions are lasting. They absolutely determine whether or not the guest returns.
Once again, I’m pleased to collaborate with my friend and fellow industry “pro” Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com Take a listen to our discussion as we cover seventeen - that’s right 17 customer service pet peeves to banish forever in your restaurant.
Plain and simple. In this most challenging business with so many moving parts, training your staff to see what the customer sees and experience what the customer feels will give your restaurant a huge competitive advantage. I recommend at least once a week on a reasonably busy night, sit down as a customer in your restaurant and put yourself in their seat. Start by walking in the front door and notice every part of the experience you and your staff deliver, from interacting with the front of house team, to visiting the restroom and bar, to watching the kitchen line if its visible, to the comfort of your dining room. Every detail matters.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #74 - When I started my first restaurant I instinctively knew that to succeed I had to stand out from my competition and that meant dazzling my customers.
It all started with plate presentations. Every dish had to have what I call “WOW Factor”. That is, when the plate was presented to the customer, they were amazed and exclaimed “WOW” to the other guests at their table. This was all about perceived value in the portion size, the look, the aromas, the garnish and just as importantly the plate the meal was served on. This standard applied to every appetizer, entree, side or dessert, and it was up to every kitchen or service staffer to make sure every plate was perfect before it was delivered to the customer.
Next, we looked at every area of our restaurant that the customer could see or experience. From the parking lot to the bar to the bathrooms, everything about our restaurant was designed with “WOW Factor” in mind.
Listen to this episode, then get your team together and discuss how you can add more “Magic” and more “WOW” to your operation that will build your business and make your cash register ring.
Before you do, grab a free gift from me at this link: https://money.restaurantrockstars.com/optin4rckrjus
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #73 - After starting and running restaurants for two decades, I’ve got your Secret Weapon! Listen closely to this episode.
Many restaurants train their staff on Service, but few train their staff How to SELL!
Face it, every table in your restaurant is valuable real estate and your entire Front of House staff need to recognize opportunity and maximize sales every table, every shift, every time. Otherwise, they’re leaving hundreds of dollars on the table (perhaps thousands each week) and your restaurant is losing money! Not to mention the average dining experiences that “Order Takers” provide their customers.
Fact is, new customers come in the door just about every day, and they don’t know the first thing about what makes your restaurant special or what they’ll enjoy. So, I’ve always believed that staff need to educate, inform and entertain each guest. This is superior service and when your staff are having more fun and making more money, guess what? Your customers are having more Fun and Spending more Money! They’ll also be telling all their friends about your place.
Want a Secret Weapon for your restaurant, check out www.restaurantsalesstars.com
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Episode #72 As rocking as your place may be, you can’t have too many profit centers! You may have Take-Out, possibly Delivery, even the Retail Store, but have you thought about the power of Catering?
The beauty of catering is you can do it during non-busy times or even before your doors open for dinner service. There are endless businesses out there with employees wanting a great lunch, not to mention weddings, retirement parties and events of all types. And did I mention the Profit?
The real beauty of catering is you know exactly how many people you need to feed. There is a set menu costed for maximum profit AND… the host pays the tab for the whole enchilada even if there are No Shows.
So how do you start a profitable catering operation? Listen to this episode as my guest, Michael Attias tells how he grew his 100 seat restaurant into a catering powerhouse and doubled his sales. Stay tuned as this idea also creates high-value for your restaurant. That’s right, I’m talking “EXIT STRATEGIES” now. With a highly profitable catering Profit Center in your restaurant, when it comes time to sell, you can now capture “Top Dollar” for your operation. Michael can show you how to do it with his automated “turn-key catering system”.
Listen to this podcast and visit www.restaurantcateringsoftware.com
Now Go Out There and ROCK YOUR RESTAURANT! Roger
Interested in sponsoring the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast? https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/sponsor-the-podcast <<
Episode #71 - The Bottom Line is: Your restaurant Needs Cash Cows and you can’t have too many!
What’s a Cash Cow you ask?
Any food or beverage menu items that have a high “perceived value” with guests, cost very little to put on the plate, are very popular and most important very profitable. This is how you make money in the restaurant business folks!
Not only that, but you can actually Maximize your profits by giving cash cows away to build new business! You heard that right, of course you make money selling them to customers off your menu, but you can make even more money by giving them away. I’m talking about bringing in Tens of Thousands of Dollars of new business into your restaurant just by giving away a Cash Cow.
Listen to this episode for the real scoop and then to put this plan in action, go to: www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com I’ll show you many ways to bring in thousands and thousands of dollars to your restaurant at very little cost.
Its your choice - why not work smarter not harder? Its all about Maximizing your Profits and R.O.i. and I can show you how.
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant. Thanks for listening.
Roger
Interested in sponsoring the Restaurant Rockstars Podcast? www.restaurantrockstars.com/sponsor-the-podcast
EPISODE #70 Nothing is more important than your restaurant’s hard-earned reputation.
Whether you’ve been in business for years or just starting out, you must know that online reviews are critically important to your restaurant’s reputation and continued success. Social media and the influence of the internet are changing daily and if your restaurant is Not engaging your customers through these channels regularly each week, you can be sure your competitors are! But no worries, I’ve got your back on this one.
Did you know that a very high percentage of consumers trust online reviews as much or more than those they get from friends or family?
Its a Fact, so building consumer trust and accolades is Job 1 for repeat business. Not only that, its proven that those restaurant’s with the most reviews “Pop” to the top of the review page in your area regardless of the rating by number of stars.
Here is a very powerful tool that will automatically capture your restaurant’s positive reviews and post them to the major online review sites and social media platforms. You’ve got 1000 other details to think about in your restaurant, it only makes sense to build systems into your business across your restaurant.
Episode #69 - Many people expect that just because they’re dining in a five-star restaurant that they’re going to get great service… in contrast, you might not expect good service in a diner. Fact is, regardless of price, concept, menu or customer expectations, your restaurant absolutely must strive to offer a level of service that I call “Paramount”.
I’ve always believed that great service is not just up to the waitstaff, but the entire front and back of house team. It takes everyone in all positions to deliver an extraordinary dining experience, as every staffer impacts the guest’s visit to your restaurant. To be truly paramount requires consistent, effective training.
No matter where I dine in the good old USA, it so often happens that the owner or management emphasizes the food and ambiance over the service. This happens in indies as well as national chains. You’ve probably experienced this for yourself when you dine out in competitors or other restaurants.
I had the opportunity to dine out in two very different restaurants last week and the service varied dramatically. You might be surprised by my experiences. Listen as I walk you through the nuances of each experience, picture the customer expectation and you’ll see what I mean by Paramount!
Paramount is not just limited to service… its the whole approach to your organization across your restaurant. Why not take my Free Restaurant Assessment at this link www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com and see if your operation is truly paramount and dialed-in.
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Roger
Episode #68 - In the world of reality TV and in many real world kitchens, hot-tempered chefs attempt to extract the best from their subordinates through a combination of attitude and intimidation. Despite best intentions over the years, I’ve had my share of this type of leadership and I have to say its time has passed. Restaurants first and foremost are about the customer experience and the culture of hospitality should not be limited to the front of house.
Enter Chef de Cuisine Rachel Wiener of the J & G Grill at the St. Regis, Deer Valley http://www.stregisdeervalley.com/jg-grill-park-city. Both the St. Regis and Jean-Georges Vongerichten are world-renowned names, but those who don’t ski may not be aware that Deer Valley, Utah attracts the pampered mega-wealthy and needless to say an uncompromising clientele with sophisticated palates. Not a simple crowd to please.
The fact that Chef Rachel humbly leads by example, running her kitchen through respect and encouragement is a testament to her fresh approach of collaboration and mutual respect with the guest experience paramount.
Listen as the Chef tells of her early desire to cook, family influences and path through numerous positions in varied kitchens to lead at the St. Regis. Its a refreshing story that I hope inspires other operators, chefs and restaurant people in all positions. In my opinion, this is the true definition of hospitality and the only way to run a kitchen and a restaurant.
Thanks for listening.
Interested in Sponsoring the RR Podcast? https://www.restaurantrockstars.com/sponsor-the-podcast
67 Could You Leave Your Restaurant? Exit Strategy Part 2 -
Do you dream of changing your life and doing something different? Maybe you’ve run your restaurant for years and its time to retire. You’d like to Sell and get “Top Dollar”. Maybe you want to open another unit or even franchise your concept or you just want to work on the big picture and actually enjoy being a customer in your restaurant, instead of working there.
You have a “system” if you can leave your restaurant for a week, a month or even a year and its just as profitable, just as successful when you return. How powerful is this one idea! Could you pack your bags and leave your restaurant tomorrow?
This is a “Pie in the Sky” dream for far too many independent restaurants - pardon the pun. The truth is, like any goal it is achievable and I can show you how. Decide today that you will “systemize” your restaurant. You will train your staff to think like “owners”, you’ll learn the fundamentals of restaurant finances and dial in your critical numbers today. You’ll learn the basics of Internal Marketing, stop wasting precious cash on traditional advertising AND you’ll find efficiencies across your restaurant. Work “On” your restaurant today, so you decide what you “Can” do tomorrow!
After listening to today’s Podcast, you might want to go back and listen to Episode #61 and get the whole picture if you missed it. Both episodes are all about creating an “Exit Strategy” for your restaurant, whatever that means to you. I’ll dive deep and give you the secrets to getting more time in your life for what really matters and to create more opportunities for your business.
Follow me as I walk you through the critical steps to creating “Systems” that Rock your Profits and your Restaurant. Take my “Free Restaurant Assessment” at this link to see if your restaurant is really “dialed” Or if you could use a solid system to transform your operation www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com
Today is a new day. Let’s get started. Roger
Entrepreneurship has always captivated me… the freedom to have a dream, follow it and make it reality. Its called the path less travelled for a reason - its difficult, but true entrepreneurs persevere despite tremendous odds. If the passion burns bright and strong enough, you can achieve any dream, any goal.
Today’s guest Mr. Jim Palmer is a multi-faceted entrepreneur, as well as a marketing and business building expert. Despite tremendous life challenges, Jim has the philosophy of “Never Quit, Never Say Die”! Listen as he tells his story of hardship turned to victory. We can all be inspired, learn and apply these life lessons to our own business.
How does all this apply to the restaurant business?
Jim is also known as the “Newsletter Guru”. He built several successful businesses harnessing the power of Newsletter Marketing which is a proven way to create loyalty with guests and build repeat business. In this episode, Jim will share his proven strategies on high-level customer service and guest retention. We’ll talk about getting customers to come more often, stay longer, spend more and spread the word about your business. If you run restaurants, perhaps nothing is more important than building this strong “affinity” with each and every customer.
Stay tuned as I love Jim’s explanation of the difference between being an Entrepreneur and being a small business owner.
You can find Jim at www.getjimpalmer.com and www.dreambizcoaching.com
Thanks for listening and I’ll see you next time.
Roger
Are you fired up to really Rock Your Restaurant, take my “Restaurant Assessment” at www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com It's free and you’ll see if your operation is truly “dialed-in”.
65 - On any given day, industry headlines are ripe with falling sales and restaurant closures, both chain and indie. No surprise with rising costs, heavy competition, staff issues,
a fickle public, etc.. it just goes on and on.
Point is, if you’re not staying ten steps ahead of your competition, you can be sure they are. This is a tough business, but its not about survival. Its about knocking it out of the park and WINNING Big!
I love working with my friend and industry “Pro” Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com We both having a burning passion for restaurants and helping other operators get the most out of their restaurants. When Jaime and I get together, we dive deep pulling out all the stops to give you powerful, actionable ideas you can execute immediately.
Listen to today’s episode as we cover cost cutting, sales building, guerrilla marketing and service-smashing customer loyalty programs. This podcast is loaded with ideas to Maximize profit and gain what I call a “Secret Weapon” in this business and if you want to take this Action further, we’ve got a deal for you - Stay Tuned til the end of the cast. You should absolutely be one of the 20 restaurants to reserve the special package we make available at the end of this episode. Its a never before offered package with the mission of helping restaurants succeed and offers exclusive one-to-one access with us. We have to exclusively limit these sessions, so don’t wait and not get in. It has a risk free guarantee, so secure your spot before they’re gone.
Want to see if your restaurant is really “Dialed In”… head over to www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com and take my Restaurant Assessment. Its free and you’ll find a version for existing restaurants and New or Conceptual restaurants.
Once again, thanks for listening. Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
64 - To run a really profitable restaurant, you have to pay attention to the key financial details. Problem is this can be a hassle. Many operators and managers just plain Hate the numbers and important processes like taking regular inventory and running food cost. So here’s simple solution.
One of your restaurant’s biggest costs, if not “The Biggest” is your Food and Inventory. Restaurants carry thousands of dollars of food at any given time and new orders must be placed several times a week from multiple vendors which takes a bunch of time and you’re never really sure if you’re paying a good price…
Now you can place all of your orders from your phone from multiple vendors and be sure you’re getting the quality you expect at the lowest price on everything you buy.
Listen today as I speak with Chef James Clary who just developed a powerful New APP that will absolutely save you time and your restaurant money with no hassles. It works directly from your IOS or Android phone and is packed with powerful features like regular price updates to keep your inventory accurate and even a “Price Alert” feature that notifies you instantly when any of your key items goes up by a percent or dollar amount you specify.
Take a moment, click this link to check out this amazing online order tool & Get a Free Demo Today: http://foodcst.com/restaurantrockstars/
Everything will be customized for your restaurant directly from your regular “order guides”. Its turn-key and you’ll be ready to go in an instant.
Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Thanks for listening, Roger
Episode # 63 - You know this business is all about passion… the blood, sweat, tears and hard knocks that define a triumphant restaurateur.
Mr. Chris Lowes or “C Lo” as he likes to be called is the embodiment of this business. He fell into restaurants because of a dream, then unexpectedly had the bottom fall out beneath him and he had a “dig deep” decision to make - Go forward or quit defeated and suffer the consequences.
I remember well over 20 years ago before I opened the doors to my first restaurant and my chef stole $40,000 of my start-up funds never to be seen again. The more I talked to Chris, the more we had in common and the similar stories we had to tell… challenges to figure out with no experience, lack of capital, survival and then putting the critical “systems” in place to run a profitable operation and be “In It To WIN It”!
Chris runs the Mahtay Cafe in the Niagara region of Canada. His dream was about the romance of a cafe. The whole idea of great thinkers, artists, writers and entrepreneurs coming together in a common space and the conversations between the walls of the cafe. Conversations of ideas, lovers, friends. The idea of a cafe as hub for a community.
Listen as Chris tells his story of the obstacles he faced to establish his now busy Cafe, the steps he’s taking to “systemize” his operation and how dreams still come true everyday in the restaurant business.
You can find Mahtay at www.facebook.com/mahtaycafe and www.twitter.com/mahtaycafe
If you enjoy the Restaurant Rock Stars Podcast, please leave us a review on iTunes.
Best of success, Roger
Episode #62 - When your doors open for business each day, its like the curtain going up and suddenly its “Showtime”! Think of your staff not as hosts, bussers, bartenders and servers, but as actors and actresses on stage ready to delight the customer not just with the products you sell, but the service you provide. Delivering amazing dining experiences with consistency and flair is the key to a long sustainable business that prints money.
I knew right from the get-go when I opened my first place so many years ago, that it was all about dazzling the customer. Think of it this way….
People dine out for many reasons, but even if they’re just in your restaurant that night because they ran short of time or were tired of cooking, its up to you and your entire staff to give them not just food and drink, but an “Experience”! Experiences drive repeat business and getting your customers raving will be your most effective form of advertising.
Just like the movies, If your restaurant is all about the show, think about all the “Props” and scenery inside your restaurant that your team can use to bring the show to life and WOW the guest.
Listen to this weeks episode as I present the “keys” to educating, informing and entertaining the customer so your restaurant has a “game-changing” advantage over the competition and your cash register keeps on ringing.
If you got some great ideas from today’s show, check out www.restaurantsalesstars.com to really take your place and your service to the next level.
Remember to leave us a review on iTunes and go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
61 - I learned a long time ago that you have a “System” if you can leave your restaurant for a week, a month or a year or more and its just as successful if not better than before you left.
How can you get such a powerful formula for your operation? Well, its all about working “ON” your restaurant Now, so you decide how or even if you work “IN” your restaurant tomorrow.
I get that this business can be all-consuming, but if you don’t put systems in place now, you’ll be spinning your wheels forever. This business is hard enough so you might as well be creating an “Exit Strategy” for the future. This way you get options. Maybe you want to sell your restaurant(s) in the future like I did and these vital systems create value to increase your sales price and make it more appealing to a buyer. Maybe you want to franchise your concept or expand with other restaurant concepts. Or even better, you just want more free time to spend with your family, while you manage the big picture whatever that is and your staff has your back.
I’ve done all of these things and the systems I created for my restaurants allowed me the freedom to Exit my operation and pivot to creating value to my audience at Restaurant Rock Stars.
Listen to my latest episode “Exit Strategy Part 1” where I tell you how you can take the next step to create freedom in your restaurant world. And, don’t forget to look for “Exit Part 2” next week.
If you like what you hear on the podcast, please give us review on iTunes and thanks for listening.
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
Episode #60 - I’m hoping you’ve been listening to my last series of Podcasts where I’ve covered vital “Systems” to Rock Your Restaurant. If you missed any, go back and have a listen.. They all work together to put money in your bank account.
In this latest episode, my friend and industry PRO Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and I discuss why you should probably close your restaurant one or two days a week. Unless you’re in Las Vegas or a major destination with constant traffic, you just might be losing money staying open on your slow nights.
Listen as we walk you through a simple daily Break-Even exercise which will show you exactly how much you need to ring in sales each and every day. This quick listen is time well spent to really dial in your operation and most important save and boost your Profits!
Thanks for listening, Roger
Episode #59 - I’m doing a series of Podcasts covering vital “Systems” to Rock Your Restaurant, so if you missed the last few go back and have a listen.. They all go together in sequence and they’ll put money in your bank account.
My friend and industry PRO Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and I are discussing simple tools you can use immediately to lower your costs, dial in your restaurant’s critical numbers and make more money! So many restaurants are Not taking a regular Inventory or at all and this is a recipe for disaster.
In my last episode #58, we showed how your Product Mix Report zeroes in your most profitable and most popular dishes - hopefully, they are one and the same, but if not, you’ll learn how transform your menu in a money-maker.
Listen to this latest episode as we walk you through a simple and effective Inventory system, which is Job 1 to calculate your all-important food costs. This quick listen is time well spent to really dial in your kitchen and most important, your Profits!
If you like what you’re learning, get a copy of my book “Rock Your Restaurant, a Game Changing Guide To Restaurant Finances that Will Maximize Your Profits. Its only $6.95 and includes all my 14 fully turn-key automatic spreadsheets and my audio explanations to make your numbers a Snap! Get the book at this link www.rockyourrestaurantbook.com My simple systems return Thousands of Dollars in R.O.I. to your bottom line. Get it now - Its the best $6.95 you’ll spend all year!
So join us and remember; this is a challenging business, so you might as well be making as much money as possible!
Thanks for listening. Roger
Episode #58 - In my last few episodes we’ve been covering vital tools to Rock Your Restaurant!
My friend and industry PRO Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and I are showing you some simple systems you can use immediately to lower your costs, dial in your restaurant’s critical numbers and make more money!
In my last episode #57 we calculated your Profit per Dish in every category. Now armed with this powerful information, the Product Mix Report (PMIX) is the “key” that shows your restaurant’s volume of sales for every product on the menu. All you do is plug in a particular date range (at least a month or two) and see if your Most Profitable Items are your restaurant’s Biggest Sellers… If Not, time to do some menu tweaking to maximize your restaurant profits!
My PMIX spreadsheet is a turn-key tool to dial in your menu. Listen as take you through all the details to boost your bottom line!
While you’re at it, get a copy of my book “Rock Your Restaurant, a Game Changing Guide To Restaurant Finances that Will Maximize Your Profits. Its only $6.95 and includes all my 14 fully turn-key automatic spreadsheets and my audio explanations to make your numbers a Snap! Get the book at this link www.rockyourrestaurantbook.com My simple systems return Thousands of Dollars in R.O.I. to your bottom line. Get it now - Its the best $6.95 you’ll spend all year!
So join us and remember…you and your staff are working just as hard selling low profit items as high profit… you might as well create a menu that prints money!
Thanks for listening. Roger
You’ve got to listen to my next series of Podcasts and this one in particular… I’m working with my friend and industry PRO Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and together, we’re going to Rock Your Restaurant!
In these next few podcasts, we’ll take you on a profit maximizing ride covering some simple systems you can use immediately to lower your costs, dial in your restaurant’s critical numbers and make more money. Stay tuned for the bottom line skinny!
In my last episode we costed out every dish on your menu category by category. What do you absolutely have to do next? Compare profits and food costs dish by dish, because you just might find out that your Least Profitable items are your Biggest Sellers! You’re working too hard and paying your kitchen too much not to be making as much money as possible.
Don’t spin your wheels any longer, listen to my latest podcast and get a simple system to maximize profit from Apps to Desserts and everything in between.
Thanks for listening. Roger
Episode #56 You’ve got to listen to my next series of Podcasts… I’m working with my friend and industry PRO Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com and together, we’re going to Rock Your Restaurant!
We’re going to take you on a profit maximizing ride covering some simple systems you can use immediately to lower your costs, dial in your restaurant’s critical numbers and make your operation super-efficient.
So many restaurants I’ve worked with are actually pricing their menu compared to what their competitors are charging without costing out every single ingredient in every dish - This is INSANE and no way to run a restaurant. You absolutely must consider quality, portion sizes and yields and volume of sales. If it goes on a plate, you must Cost it Out and Charge for it! There’s No other way.
In this 1st episode, I’ll walk you through an easy powerful system approach to lower your food cost by 4% - Don’t miss it and while you’re at it, get a copy of my book “Rock Your Restaurant, a Game Changing Guide To Restaurant Finances that Will Maximize Your Profits. Its only $6.95 at this link www.rockyourrestaurantbook.com My simple systems make Thousands of Dollars in R.O.I. to your bottom line. Get it now - Its the best $6.95 you’ll spend all year!
So join us and remember… the money is either in your pocket or your customer’s pocket - its your choice!
Thanks for listening. Roger
Episode #55 - It's all about Service today. Your customers expect it and your restaurant has to deliver it. If not, your competition certainly will.
I’ve always believed that providing superior guest service is your restaurant’s Top Competitive Advantage. Treating every guest like a regular is simple in theory, but much harder in execution - Until now.
Listen as I interview Joel Montaniel, the head of SevenRooms.com who has developed a cutting-edge app that allows your restaurant, hotel or hospitality staff to treat every customer like your Most Important Customer. Now your operation has a powerful service and marketing tool to tap into powerful guest profiles from any device even from away, manage your reservation book, know in an instant your customer’s preferences and so much more. SevenRooms is also your database whether you have one location or multiple locations.
Check out www.sevenrooms.com to deliver amazing guest service experiences and Rock Your Competition.
Episode #54 - It's the Holidays and there’s no better time to sell more Gift Cards.
This time of year is a literal cash injection in your business that can bring in hundreds even thousands of extra dollars in the next 3 weeks!
Listen to this episode as I give you some simple and very effective marketing ideas to make your cash register ring this holiday season… you might even learn a few secrets you can use all year long to boost your sales and build your restaurant’s brand.
I’m talking about the power of “Suggestive Selling” that in my book is really superior Service. Your staff are telling your customers “what’s great” about your restaurant, what they’ll enjoy, making new friends for your place and creating repeat business at the same time. Remember, when your staff are having more fun and making more money, your customers are having More Fun and Spending More Money! Its a beautiful thing and there’s no better time to start than the holidays.
Want an easy turn-key way to train your staff to Serve & Sell, check out www.restaurantsalesstars.com and Rock your Restaurant this holiday season!
Thanks for listening, Roger
Episode #53 - I hope you listened to my earlier episode about the Uncorkd APP. It gets even better! Listen to part 2 as we talk about Beverage Menu Analytics and how you can use Uncorkd to boost your sales and marketing firepower.
Uncorkd is a tablet based wine & beverage program that takes the intimidation out of wine & spirits for your customer. Its loaded with 100,000 different beverages, so I’m pretty sure you’re going to find your wine & beverage list included. Better yet, you’ll find descriptions of each wine, beer and spirit… tasting notes, pairings that complement your menu items and more all in an interactive touch or scroll on the screen.
Listen as I speak to Joel Saunders from Uncorkd HQ, as he explains how you can use Uncorkd to really move the merchandise and maximize your beverage profits with every sale. Its simple, quick and easy. Don’t miss the FREE DEMO at www.uncorkd.biz
BTW… if you enjoy our Podcast and find that it helps you Rock Your Restaurant, please give us a review on iTunes and if you have an idea for an interesting episode, I’d love to hear it.. Just email me at roger@restaurantrockstars.com
Thanks for listening. Roger
I’ve always believed there are 3 very important elements to any successful restaurant - Food, Service & Ambiance and to really get the buzz going for your place, you’ve got to nail all three.
I happened to visit a well-known major chain restaurant recently and the experience really knocked my socks off and my kids were pretty impressed too. They wanted to take our server home with them, but I’ll get to that.
As soon as we walked in the door, a giant display case of desserts reminded me of all the hooks I used to have in my restaurant. A hook is anything interesting, unique or different about how you do business that captures your customer’s imagination and gets them talking or better yet, gets them buying. What can your restaurant do or display throughout your place that dazzles your customer’s appetite and/or their wallet?
Next, the service was fantastic… our server treated my kids like VIPs and gave them the star treatment.. There’s a lesson here.. serve the kids 1st and serve them well and next time the family dines out, your restaurant will be at the top of the list.
Last, don’t forget the food & drink… everything we ordered had what I call “WOW Factor”… when its placed before you, the presentations looks so amazing everyone looks around the table and goes “WOW”!
So there you have the magic formula to restaurant success… simple in theory, but its the execution that counts.
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Roger
You know that Labor cost is one of your restaurant’s biggest expenses alone without all the common employee abuses that happen every week in this business.
When I started my first place, I had employees who’d clock in early and stand around. I had employees clock in co-workers even when they weren’t on the schedule and the list of potential losses go on an on. Until I put a stop to it!
I often talk about the critical “Systems” that make your restaurant more money and more efficient. Well listen up because I’ll show you a few simple tools to drop points off your labor cost each week.
In this episode I’ll cover:
-
A simple way to ensure that every employee work hour is productive time
-
How to zero in on your labor cost “Sweet Spot”
-
How to identify inefficient labor practices and quickly get back on track
When I ran restaurants I was obsessed with profit and you should be too. A few systems will make all the difference between spinning your wheels and smiling all the way to the bank.
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Thanks for listening. Roger
This episode brought to you by UPSERVE, the industries largest cloud-based Restaurant Management System. Vital information you MUST HAVE to CRUSH IT in the Restaurant Business!! Free Demo @ www.upserve.com/restaurantrockstars
Whenever I come across a new system that makes a restaurant more money while enhancing the guest experience, I’ve got to tell you about it. So here goes:
Uncorkd is a tablet based wine & beverage program that takes the intimidation out of wine & spirits for your customer. Its loaded with 100,000 different beverages, so I’m pretty sure you’re going to find your wine & beverage list included. Better yet, you’ll find descriptions of each wine, beer and spirit… tasting notes, pairings that complement your menu items and more all in an interactive touch or scroll on the screen.
You know, when I ran restaurants, many of my staff were not wine drinkers, so it took plenty of training to get them comfortable making wine recommendations. Uncorkd gives your customer all the information they need to make an educated and enjoyable selection… wines, beers, single malts - you name it. You can see how Uncorkd adds entertainment and flair to your customer’s dining experience, while selling more product for your restaurant.
Listen as I speak to Kyle Thacker from Uncorkd HQ, as he explains how Uncorkd can raise your sales and service. Its simple, quick and easy. Don’t miss the FREE DEMO at www.uncorkd.biz
BTW… if you enjoy our Podcast and find that it helps you Rock Your Restaurant, please give us a review on iTunes and if you have an idea for an interesting episode, I’d love to hear it.. Just email me at roger@restaurantrockstars.com
Thanks for listening. Roger
This episode brought to you by UPSERVE, the industries largest cloud-based Restaurant Management System. Vital information you MUST HAVE to CRUSH IT in the Restaurant Business!! Free Demo @ www.upserve.com/restaurantrockstars
Episode #49 Top Tip - Is Hospitality A Lost Art? A good friend of mine is a chef and he’s owned several fine dining places. I owned family casual restaurants.. Makes no difference we both agree that true service is a lost art.
Decades ago, gas stations would wash your windshield and check your oil and restaurants would treat you like you were family. I dine out all the time and usually the food is good and its a comfortable atmosphere, yet the service always seems to go sideways… now I’m not talking about Alfredo ending up in my lap. I’m talking about indifferent service because the staff just aren’t trained properly or trained at all. Why is this simple concept lost on so many restaurateurs and managers?
In this episode, I’m going to show you how your approach to hiring will make all the difference. Once you have the right staff that truly care about the guest’s experience, consistent training will build your brand and ring your cash register. Want a turn-key system that will transform your restaurant, check out my SALES STARS front of house training program at www.restaurantsalesstars.com
Remember, Hospitality is present when something happens “FOR” you and absent when something happens “TO” you!
I suggest you make it a habit to dine out in your own restaurant frequently to see your restaurant from your customer’s point of view. Experience everything from the greeting at the front door to the interaction with each front of house team-member who serves you.
Don’t let Hospitality be a lost art in your place.
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant. Thanks for listening,
Episode #48 - I’ve noticed that many restaurants train their staff on service, but not Sales - Why?
Think about sales as the lifeblood of your restaurant and Service and Sales naturally go together…you can’t have one without the other. And isn’t your goal to make as much money in your restaurant as possible? I hope so!
Every day your restaurant gets new first time customers in the door that know nothing about what makes your restaurant special… or what they’ll enjoy. So its up to your staff to tell them. I’ve always believed that if the staff aren’t educating, informing and entertaining the customer, they’re actually doing customers a dis-service..
Think of all the lost opportunity if you just give a customer the menu and let the chips fall where they may.. Product Knowledge is power and when your staff are trained to Suggest & Sell, sales will follow and your cash register will ring.
Listen as I explain how the best servers Assume the Sale!
Roger
Drop whatever you’re doing and get this Free App now…
Running a restaurant is the most challenging business I know.. so many details, so many hours… Its hard to stay organized until Now!
You know I’m all about systems and efficiency to run a super profitable restaurant - so listen up. In today’s podcast I speak with Konstantin Zvereff from a company called BlueCart. The BlueCart platform is a one-stop shop for everything you buy from food, to alcohol, even dry goods all with just One Click. BlueCart links to all your suppliers and you won’t believe how much time and money this will save you - all for FREE! I’m not surprised that over 150 new restaurants and suppliers are joining BlueCart everyday and here’s why your restaurant should too:
-
Easy Ordering for everything you buy all with one click
-
Customizable to your unique specifications and needs
-
Direct communication to your reps to make changes, request rush delivery… you name it!
-
Simple reporting to track Spend History, trends, etc…
Get started now with 3 simple steps at www.bluecart.com
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Thanks for listening, Roger
Lots of restaurants hire in a pinch for the wrong reasons with the wrong approach. I see want ads all the time for desperate restaurants seeking experienced people...
"Wanted Experienced Cook.. Experienced Server" - Why? Most of the time, these people usually don't work out - No wonder turnover is so high in the restaurant business.
Instead, I always hired for personality, approach and a true desire to serve the public. It's made all the difference in my successful restaurants and it will work for you.
Listen as I show you how to Get an “A-Game” from your “A-Players”, by developing what I call your restaurant “Dream Team”.
Here’s how you can:
- Minimize turnover in your restaurant and build a “Culture of Hospitality”
-Combine Great Service with Salesmanship
- Develop a Service Staff that makes friends with your customers and brings them back again and again!
Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant.
Roger
In my last episode, my friend and fellow industry Pro Jaime Oikle of www.runningrestaurants.com suggested we ask our listeners for their most challenging questions. You responded and the Q & A session was super powerful.
These questions apply to any restaurant and our answers will help you solve critical problems and significantly improve your operation. I think you'll really relate to the challenges these restaurant owners are facing - maybe you’ve had them yourself!
Take a listen to Burning Restaurant Questions Part 2, and if you missed it, go back to last week's Episode Part 1.
Today we cover:
-
Seating during your busy times and how to keep both the kitchen and dining room on track.
-
Tipping Policies and Gratuities for staff. As you know, this can be a contentious subject and its hard to keep everyone happy.
and lastly
- Alcohol Pouring and how to balance different customers wants and tastes. Need help on these topics and want to dig deeper, check out this all- inclusive mega resource www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com
Thanks for listening and l'll see you next time!
Roger
This episode brought to you by UPSERVE, the industries largest cloud-based Restaurant Management System. Vital information you MUST HAVE to CRUSH IT in the Restaurant Business!!
For a FREE DEMO visit www.upserve.com/restaurantrockstars
Listen as Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants and I answer burning business questions submitted by restaurant owners.
When you eat out in other restaurants, if you’re anything like me you critique the operation - from food to service and ambiance… Funny how we can have a critical eye and think “I can do it better”!
But in your own restaurant, do you regularly look at the thousands of details - essentially seeing what the guest sees? If not, you might have a fast-food approach… get them in , get them out and present the check! Not to say that fast-casual operators don’t care about your experience - they certainly do. But as a full-serve restaurant, your customers expect more - leisurely experience that celebrates your food, drink and service.
Listen as I outline how to see what the guest sees and deliver the kind of experiences they expect from your full-serve restaurant.
Rock Your Restaurant, Roger
Today’s podcast episode features my very first Restaurant Rock Stars “ACADEMY” customer. Much like me 22 years ago, he quit a secure job to follow a distant dream to start his very first restaurant - WITHOUT any restaurant Experience!
My guest in this cast, Mr. Colton Shoults is killing it in his first few weeks of business with lines out the door, a dedicated hard-working staff, happy customers singing his praises and a growing bank account. What’s his secret? “SYSTEMS”!
Colton is a smart guy who decided he could educate himself with a crash course in the restaurant business. He called me up and we chatted about his ideas for a couple hours, then he purchased the “ACADEMY” and took on this project one day at a time. He’s put critical systems in place for hiring, food prep, ordering and delivery, efficiencies and marketing… and he’s not done yet. Next step.. his system to control his Prime Cost.
This is the only way to start and run a successful restaurant. Listen as Colton shares his months long journey to start-up and what’s happening now at his operation.
Thanks for listening. Go out there and Rock Your Restaurant!
Roger
Multiple customers explain how Sales Stars has been an invaluable training tool for their waitstaff + servers.
I get it. As restauranteurs we think we’ve got it all covered, but a fresh perspective can really improve your operation. Don’t get so close to your restaurant to think that everything’s great - even if you’re busy.
Take a few key members of your team, step outside and look at your restaurant from the guest’s perspective. Then, walk in the door, put your “customer hat” on and look at everything and I mean everything as your guest will see it and experience it!
On the inside:
-
what’s your guest’s experience at your host counter?
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Is your menu fresh and appealing, with variety and most of all high profitability?
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Does every dish you serve have what I call “WOW Factor”?
-
Is your staff a “Dream Team” communicating, backing each other up and making friends for your restaurant?
-
Are your bathrooms spotless 24/7?
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Is your place the first to be recommended by those in the know?
If not, sit down with your team, brainstorm some “Big Ideas” and make some important changes… Fixing what’s broken will elevate pride, give your team a jump start and dazzle your customers next time they come in.
Rock your Restaurant, Roger
This is a high-turnover business, but I’ve got the solution. Don’t hire another person in your restaurant til you listen to my latest episode.
You can’t simply fill openings and forget about help-wanted ads… that’s the way to find average people, who will deliver average guest experiences, average food & drink and lead to nothing but problems in your restaurant.
Instead focus on a new approach. Hire for attitude, approach and desire to serve the public. Front of House or Back of House… doesn’t matter. What matter’s most is you train, develop and nurture what I call the “A-Team”. Get rid of your C-Players and get rid of them now! I’m not kidding.. they’ll just bring down your staff and your restaurant in short order.
Listen up and listen close… my latest episode will lower your turnover, free up your time and make a huge difference in your restaurant and your guest’s experience.
Thanks for listening. Now go out there and Rock Your Restaurant! Roger
A “hook” is anything unique, different, eye-catching or appealing about the way you do business.. If you have really cool hooks and promote them well, there’s no stopping the power of your restaurant brand. Best of all, very few restaurants (your competitors) are doing this, so its a Competitive Advantage for you.
Hooks are the “Key” to dazzling your customer and gaining their loyalty. When your customers are having so much fun at your restaurant, they naturally tell others and the next thing you know, you’ve got buzz and lines out the door. Your customers are having more fun and spending more money and telling all their friends. That’s called “Internal Marketing ladies and gentlemen and its absolutely FREE. When your customers become your best marketers, I call that capturing lighting in a bottle and you can ride that all the way to the bank.
Listen, as I give away some of my most effective hooks; but if you want the full enchilada, go to www.restaurantrockstarsacademy.com and check out my new “ACADEMY”. Its a virtual system loaded with everything I learned in 20 years to create an army of loyal customers and MAXIMIZE my restaurant profits.
Check it out and ROCK YOUR RESTAURANT!
Roger
This is my most powerful Podcast yet… If you’re not willing to invest 1 hour in your business to dominate your competition, you might as well turn in your keys because there are easier ways to make money than the restaurant business.
Do I have your attention? Good. Listen as I give away my secrets to Killing IT! Secrets I used to ring well over $1 Million in just 4-months a year in my seasonal restaurant… Not only that, but my profit was DOUBLE the industry average.
Think it can’t be done in your operation… think again! I’m giving you 25+ actionable ideas you can use immediately in your restaurant to:
SELL MORE PRODUCT
MAKE MORE PROFIT
LOWER TURNOVER and build your DREAM STAFF
HAVE MORE FUN & FREE YOUR TIME
and most important, give your customers such amazing experiences, they will become your marketing team.
Listen as I speak with Jaime Oikle from RunningRestaurants.com. He and I show you the difference between the average restaurant and the most powerful restaurants. Share the information with your managers and get ready to dominate your competition! I can’t wait to hear your success stories.
Rock on! Roger
Here’s an easy & inexpensive way to create an amazing video that brings your restaurant to life for the customer even when they’re not in your restaurant. How powerful is that? You can demonstrate your food, service & ambiance… everything that makes your place special and get those customers in your door and coming back again and again.
Its completely turn-key and I’ll show you how for $300 bucks. Post it to social media, put it up on your website, send it out to your list in an email blast…. now you’re cooking… Every restaurant should have one!
KEY TAKE-AWAYS
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Know your target customer for the best results
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2000 video pros around the world will come to your restaurant to create the magic
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Increase Searches for your restaurant on google
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Fixed price “special offer” - email support@valoso.com and mention the Restaurant Rock Stars Podcast and get a complete turn-key video for around $300
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Want more info, go to www.valoso.com
Get that video, start filling your seats and I’ll see you next time.
Roger
Many restaurateurs HATE the numbers… some even avoid their finances completely, but I’m going to show you why this is a dangerous game. If your restaurant has a slow night or two a week, you have 3 choices:
1 Do nothing, Stay Open and drain your profits
2 Try a new promotion to boost business on these slow nights
OR
3 CLOSE and go spend time with your family
How do you decide? Listen as I walk you through a simple “Daily Break-Even” exercise. Simple math will show you how you just might lose less money being closed than staying open.
Thanks for listening and I’ll see you next time,
Rock On, Roger
Many restaurants waste thousands of $$ on the shotgun approach of traditional marketing. Listen as Bar/Restaurant expert Nick Fosberg explains how persuasive lead-generating marketing can zero in on your most qualified new customers and keep them with a sniper approach.
KEY-TAKEAWAYS:
-
“Systems” are the key to your success. You have a system if you can leave your business for a month or more and its just as successful or more so when you return.
-
Put the time in NOW to work “On” your business, so you decide how or if you work “In” it later
-
How persuasive “targeted” social media advertising delivers amazing R.O.I. for little money
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How to Create a valuable offer to generate qualified leads that build your list, your customer base and your brand
-
Keep testing your digital marketing strategy to zero in on what works best
-
Check out www.barrestaurantsuccess.com for valuable free content and sign up for Nick’s magazine “Bar and Restaurant Success”
I get it - your restaurant has so many moving pieces, do you need another? YES!
I’m talking about simplifying your business and your life so you run it and not the other way around. You’re probably already paying for multiple functions that you don’t have time for or can’t do yourself… but what if you had one system that ran your restaurant… inventory, cost controls, labor & scheduling, invoices.. a complete back of house solution that’s simple to use and works with your POS system? And, if you have more than one location, combines and compares all this information from multiple restaurants at the touch of a button…
Listen as I speak with John Moody from Restaurant365 as he takes us through one stop to solve all your restaurant management functions in one simple solution.
KEY TAKE-AWAYS:
-
One software solution can automate all your critical restaurant management functions and give you the information at the touch of a button
-
Invoices automatically update the latest product costs into your inventory
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Labor scheduling tool allows efficiency and cost controls
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Continuous innovation to maximize your restaurant’s efficiency
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Easy transition and technical support to get you up and running quickly and simply
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One monthly charge with no hardware to buy or software to install
-
Free product DEMO available at www.restaurant365software.com
Stay tuned Rock Stars as I bring you more exciting guests and innovative restaurant solutions.
Best of Success, Roger
Every impression and detail in your restaurant impacts the guest experience and is lasting. Above all, you want your customer to be comfortable and let’s face it, you probably have wobbly tables in your restaurant. If your servers are anything like mine were, they probably place coasters or folded napkins under the table base for a quick fix. This is not only unsightly to the guest, but an annoyance. Well, at last there’s a solution to this frustrating problem.
Listen as I interview Peter from www.flattech.com who has a revolutionary table base stabilizer that eliminates wobbly tables… your customers will be happy and your staff can focus on the all-important dining experience.
KEY-TAKEAWAYS
-
Hydraulic technology automatically raises and lowers each table leg so that they are perfectly aligned, even and stable
-
For larger parties, two tables of different heights can be placed together with their table tops evenly aligned
-
FlatTech’s “Auto-Adjust” table bases come in many different models - choose from round bases, square bases, leg bases for 2-tops, 4-tops and more…
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“Auto-Adjust” bases are drop-shipped to your restaurant and its as simple as taking off the old base from the table and installing the new base
-
Pricing starts at $69 for a 2-top and $78 for a 4-top
-
“Auto-Adjust” bases are available direct from www.flattech.com or several of the leading broad-line suppliers http://webstaurantstore.com and http://trimarkusa.com
Solve the “wobbly table” woes in your restaurant once and for all with Flat Tech.
Thanks for listening to the Rock Your Restaurant Podcast and I’ll be back with more great guests and game-changing products!
See you next time.
Roger
Two important things to remember running restaurants: if you don’t stay ahead of your competition, you’ll get run over AND you can’t have too many profit centers.
Listen as I interview Mo Sloane from EZ-CHOW, who demonstrates that online guest ordering is convenient for your guest and seamless in your restaurant.
KEY-TAKEAWAYS:
-
The world is online 24/7 and lives on their smartphones
-
Systems automate your business, free your time and give you an advantage
-
EZ-CHOW adds software to your POS system that sends online orders direct to your kitchen
-
Online “take-out” orders require less staff labor, free your seats for more customers and provide higher profit sales
-
Take-Out orders are huge business and patrons select restaurants that offer convenience
-
EZ-CHOW also features a data-base marketing tool to build customer loyalty
-
EZ-CHOW integrates with Aloha, Positouch & Micros POS Systems and is adding in the process of adding new platforms
I highly recommend EZ-CHOW. Learn more and get started at www.ez-chow.com and thanks for listening to the Rock Your Restaurant Podcast. See you next time. Roger
You’re in the thick of your restaurant… I get It! So many details, so much to worry about… Staffing, Service, Marketing, Food… the all-important Cost Controls - but how do you keep your staff and customers happy? Here’s your answer.
Know that “systems” are the key to freeing your time and your success… you have a system if you can leave your business for a week, a month or more and when you return, your restaurant is just as successful… This takes a simple mindset shift.
Decide now to take a step back, shift your management approach and set some new priorities. Take an hour each week to work “ON” your business so you decide how or if you work “IN” your business later.
One such system available to you now is www.runningrestaurants.com This site is a world of restaurant knowledge, advice and resources that cuts right to the source and gives you immediately actionable ideas and tools to improve your restaurant the very same day.
Listen as I interview the founder and man behind Runningrestaurants.com, Jaime Oikle and hear all about what www.runningrestaurants.com can do for your restaurant
For 20 years, I was a member of my state restaurant association and for two terms I served on its Board of Directors. This was a wise decision as I turned to their expertise numerous times over the years on challenging issues affecting my business and I was able to mentor and assist other restaurateurs in improving their businesses.
For a small yearly investment, your State Restaurant Association can save you thousands through their influence and buying power with industry suppliers, not to mention their muscle at the Statehouse defending your restaurant from negative legislation. Have a roadblock or challenge in your restaurant, call your state association and I’m confident they can answer immediately or point you in the right direction.
Watch or listen to my latest interview with the Chief Executive of the New Mexico Restaurant Association for her unique perspective on this industry.
Thanks for watching + listening and I’ll see you next time!
-
You have 1 Chance to make a positive Impression in your restaurant and impressions are lasting
-
Train your staff to NOTICE. To See what the guest sees, feels & experiences in your restaurant and empower them to FIX what’s broken
-
There are 12 “Key-Guest Contact Points” in every restaurant, from the parking lot, throughout your common areas to the all-important “Thank You’s & Welcome Back”
-
Systemize each of these 12 areas so that the guest experience is consistent and above expectations each and every time.
-
Think of this as cost-effective “Internal Marketing” that builds your business and your Brand for no money
For more key nuggets on this topic, check out my appearance on the “Food Marketing Podcast”: http://www.restaurantrockstars.com/blog/there-is-no-finish-line and my recent blog in Restaurant Hospitality Magazine: http://www.restaurantrockstars.com/blog/focus-on-these-12-guest-contact-points
Please join my new Restaurant Roundtable every Wednesday at 12 Noon Eastern. Each week, four industry experts and myself discuss a key-topic to improve and help restaurants succeed. You can either listen, chime in on the topic or ask a relevant question affecting your restaurant…
For more info: www.restaurantrockstars.com I hope to see you on the next call.
Riff #28 Eric Cacciatore Of Restaurant Unstoppable - Why I Surround Myself With Industry Leaders by Roger Beaudoin
As owners and managers, we all get to sample the menu, but how often do you sit down as a customer?
Why? Its our nature to spend all our time on the floor and in the kitchen taking care of the details of running our restaurants, but unless we regularly dine as “customers”, we miss what the guest experiences. Listen as I explain the game-changing advantage of this approach.
There’s no better way to build your brand, manage your team and elevate the guest experience, which leads to greater Profit. So take a seat in your dining room to see, feel and experience what the guest sees, feels and experiences.
Systems are all-important in your restaurant… they simplify, keep you organized, save time & money, but the industry has been slow adapters to technology.
Inventory, Ordering & Invoices are otherwise laborious tasks that are a necessary evil. They need to be done, but no-one likes to do it, so many restaurants forego these critical operating procedures at their peril.
Now there’s a simple answer and its a one-stop turn key “system” to streamline and automate all these necessary processes. Today, I interview Mark Haidet, CEO of getOrderly.com that has the solution.
KEY-TAKEAWAYS:
-
Orderly’s Free “Snap APP” is an online file cabinet.. simply take a photo of your invoices and all is updated with your supplier’s up to the minute information and stored to the cloud. Get your free “Snap APP” through Google or the Apple Store
-
3 optional upgrades are available depending on your restaurant’s needs: Orderly takes over your data entry function categorizing each item line by line, they track your food spend, monitor pricing trends, automate your inventory, create pars, manage usage and provide all accurate reporting to you and your accountant or bookkeeper
-
All systems are available to view from your smartphone or tablet
-
A personal “Rep” is assigned to set up your systems and ensure your restaurant’s success
-
Schedule a free demo at www.getorderly.com
Listen as Mark describes what these systems can do for your restaurant and how simple it really is…. and yes, there’s an APP for that!
Thanks for listening, Roger
You are insanely busy and your restaurant appears really popular but is is Crazy Profitable? Work smarter not harder!
Many restaurants give more thought to their menu’s customer appeal than their profits, especially when changing menus frequently. Menu items can be popular, profitable or both; but in many cases restaurants wonder why their place is busy, but they’re not making much money.
The answer probably lies in the fact that a restaurant’s most popular items just aren’t profitable enough or profitable at all.
KEY-TAKEAWAYS
-
Your Menu is your Most Important Marketing Tool but also is the key determinant of “profit”
-
It is critically important to Cost Out each menu item category by category to know what Profit each contributes to the bottom line and the volume of sales of each item using your Product Mix report
-
Learn how to “Cost Your Menu for Maximum Profit” in my free webinar: Register Here: www.createaprofitablemenu.com
-
When changing your menu strive for consistently similar profits per dish by category or at the very least, highlight your “most profitable items” and train your service team to “suggest” these every table, every time
Listen as I uncover this secret to making more money in the restaurant business.
Classic Rock Coffee is a franchise on fire right now as it expands around the world. This way cool concept marries coffee & food with classic Rock N Roll… its like the Hard Rock Cafe of Coffee!
Listen as I speak with Brett Payne from Classic Rock Coffee as he describes his challenges in growing a global franchise, what’s cool about the coffee and where they go from here.
Check out their website: www.classicrockcoffee.com
KEY “TAKEAWAYS” from the show:
-
Knowing how to run a business is a huge advantage if you have No restaurant experience
-
Design your website to be a “virtual” tour of your concept & experience
-
Consistency in product, concept & execution is paramount
-
With the “right” people in place, a great concept will work anywhere
-
Stand for quality, ethics & sustainability
-
Diversity your main business with other Profit Centers that enhance your brand (merchandise/licensing, etc..)
-
Appeal to a broad target demographic through a “Universal draw” (Music)
If you loved this episode, are business savvy and looking for a hot new franchise concept, go to: www.classicrockfranchise.com
A great dining experience pairs food with exemplary service & ambiance. Some restaurants have great food, but the service falls short or maybe guests are treated to fine service, but the food is average. Rare is the restaurant that offers all three and if you own a restaurant, know that this is what your guests are seeking.
In this latest episode, a quaint wine bar misses some key details that overshadow the overall experience. Watch + Listen as I riff on expectations that went unmet.
True hospitality is in many cases a lost art. Generations ago, gas stations would wash your windshield and check your oil and restaurants would thrive by providing exemplary service. You would be greeted at the door by name, the host would take your coat, seat you at your favorite table and the owner or Maitre’D would make sure that every aspect of your dining experience was unforgettable. What happened to this type of service?
Chef James Clary has owned and managed many fine dining restaurants and one of his secrets to success was treating every guest as if they were the “most-important” guest, even when his restaurant was a full-house. Listen as the Chef and I discuss why so many restaurants in the hospitality business are missing the hospitality.
There is nothing more mega powerful than a CONSISTENT and EFFECTIVE pre-shift meeting. Follow the lead of all of the professional sports teams. There is good reason that they have pre-game meetings, that conclude with a big huddle and cheer!
This is the ideal time to #1 ensure your entire staff is on their A-game #2 that everyone knows the game plan and #3 that the entire staff head onto the floor with excitement!
A weekly meeting is NOT a pre-shift. The most effective pre-shifts happen every single day, every single shift! The restaurant business can be one hectic place. Do not let the daily fires get in the way of holding consistent pre-shift meetings. MAKE IT A PRIORITY! Be sure your pre-shift is interactive not just informational and most of all, make it FUN!
The power of utilizing restaurant intelligence to build your brand, featuring a progressive new leader in the industry: Swipely.
When it comes to branding, some people just get it! Don't be afraid to look for inspiration outside of your industry.
(Sorry for the poor audio quality in this episode, the content however is GREAT!) Restaurateurs and Managers: Turnover is a huge problem in the restaurant business, costing your operation time, money and the frustration of staff forced to pick up the slack.
I have a solution and you simply MUST tune in to my latest podcast. Take the time to listen and learn how to recognize, reward and lead your team to amazing heights where they will in turn deliver unforgettable experiences to your customers. Join me and my special guest Keesha from MyEmployees talking about simple, actionable ideas that will make you not only a better manager, but an inspiring leader that will reduce turnover and create your own "Dream Team". Thanks for listening.
Hey There Rockstars…
My latest Riff is all about the importance of consistency provided by your restaurant service team whether in the dining room or bar, no matter your price point.
Listen as I share a recent story of fantastic food overshadowed by inconsistent service.
Roger
Listen to my latest Riff all about the challenges of leasing your space and WHY you should be working towards owning your property.
Its All In the Details…. Are you on top of all the moving pieces in your restaurant or is your guest experience lacking? … Listen as Roger tells of a great meal tainted by lackadaisical service in this Denver restaurant.
To continually improve SALES STARS and ensure that it is results driven, cost-effective and easy to implement, I'd like your FEEDBACK.
As a thank you, I am going to send free copies of my new book to the first 10 people I hear from.
If you are using or have used The Sales Stars Server Training Program, simply email me roger@restaurantrockstars.com and tell me any/all of the following: - How are you using Sales Stars? - How often do you log-in? - What results have you gotten? - Any success stories you'd like to share? - What's not working?
Please tell me anything at all that you think would be helpful. I want to know.
ROGER EXPLAINS HOW HIS SALES STARS SERVER TRAINING SYSTEM HELPED HIM RING A MILLION DOLLARS IN SALES IN JUST A 4 MONTH SEASON.
Is your place Kid Friendly? It should be, because kids often decide where the family eats out… Roger shares easily actionable ideas to make your restaurant the FUN place for families and a source of new profits for your operation.
YES! Our ROCK YOUR RESTAURANT Financial SYSTEM is finally here!! Listen to Roger's school of hard knocks journey to financial success as he teaches you how to increase profits, cut costs and run a more efficient restaurant. Learn how he created and used this system to make over a Million dollars in sales in just 4 short months.
Learn from Roger this week why taking a close look at the critical details of your operation and keeping on top of your competitors and industry trends will pay dividends in your operation.
Is your restaurant wildly successful?… Your bank account is growing, you can take time off while the cash register keeps ringing and you can count on your team to WOW your guests and deliver amazing experiences? If not, give this Riff a listen and contact me if you'd like to learn more about really ROCKING YOUR RESTAURANT. Thanks for listening… Roger
Make more money and get more regulars in your restaurant…. Give things away (NOT INSIDE, BUT OUTSIDE your restaurant)!