With excitement allow me to introduce today's guest Founder and CEO of The Famous Big Dave's Cheesesteaks. A West Philadelphia native, restaurateur and philanthropist, Derrick “D” Hayes understands the value of hard work and perseverance. After falling into trouble with the law as a young man, Derrick found himself granted with an unexpected second chance and vowed to dedicate his time to giving back to his community while building a business to bring Atlanta a taste of his Philly roots. Inspired by his fond memories of assisting his grandfather in the kitchen for Sunday dinners, the charismatic visionary made his foray into the culinary world. 

Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks proves to be an inspiring small business success, but not without its challenges. Derrick launched his first brick-and-mortar venture in a humble setting: a 700-square-foot space inside a Dunwoody, Georgia, Shell gas station. Following the opening, Derrick worked to build a following while cooking behind the grill each day, but the concept was met with little-to-no foot traffic. Months later, rapper, actress & fellow Philadelphia native Eve made a trip to visit the small restaurant while in town for a project. She posted a photo on social media, and the rest was history. In 2016, Derrick rebranded the concept from Dave’s Philly Water Ice into Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks. Since then, it has grown into a nationally-known cheesesteak staple. 

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favorite success quote/mantra:

• "Life is not a track meet, it's a marathon; it's all about how you end."

In this episode with Derrick Hayes we will discuss:

• Anything and everything

Today's sponsor:

For restaurants, large costs can pop up fast, but traditional loans are too slow. That’s why you need Zinch – They’re a direct lender that can fund up to $250,000 in less than 2 days. Apply online and you can get a response within 24 hours. Right now, my listeners get their application fee waived by going to financingthatworks.com. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Hard work
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Loving too much
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • Loyalty
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Me
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • What goes around comes around
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • The customer is always right
7. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
   • My wisdom
   • My words
   • My knowledge

Contact:

Instagram: @officialdhayes @bigdavescheesesteaks

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Derrick Hayes for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Ann and Chris Demant are the Founders of Grills by Demant, a live-fire stainless steel grills fabricator based in Atlanta. Chris and Ann are from Denmark and met in 2009. Chris was a stainless steel fabricator making industrial food equipment and Ann was studying to work in healthcare. They moved to Atlanta in 2015 to start the Grills by Demant business and have been making grills for restaurants ever since.

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favor success quote/mantra:

• "Work hard, work smart, and play hard."

In this episode with Ann and Chris Demant we will discuss:

• Married business partners
• Live-fire grilling
• Variables to consider when purchasing a live-fire grill

Today's sponsor:

At Popmenu, we know that in today’s world, a great hospitality experience usually begins online. Keeping the conversation with guests going beyond the meal also requires simple, powerful, fun technology capable of expression through all kinds of channels. Our team takes pride in helping restaurants put their best foot forward digitally so they can focus on what they do best. We think PDF menus are super boring, we believe 3rd party platforms have had too much say in how consumers find their next dining experience and we deeply feel that sharing your beautiful menu doesn’t have to be so difficult, time-consuming and expensive. As a listener of the Restaurant Unstoppable, you'll receive $100 off your first month of Popmenu!

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Contact:

Instagram: @grillsbydemant

Website: https://grillsbydemant.com/welcome

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Ann and Chris Demant for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Anthony Valletta is the President of Bartaco. Valletta is from Boston and studied the restaurant business both in the US and abroad in London. After graduating in 2005, he eventually found himself as the Managing Partner at Longhorn Steakhouse and stayed with the company for 7 years. He was Del Frisco's Director of Operations for 7 years from 2011 to 2018. He then worked as the COO at Mina Group, and held the same title at Birdcall in Denver. He has been the President of Bartaco since 2021.

Check out episode 829 with Andy Pforzeimer Co-Founder of Bartaco as mentioned in today's episode.

Check out episode 966 with Sam Caucci Founder & CEO of 1Huddle as mentioned in today's episode.

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favorite success quote/mantra:

• Cowards never start. Losers never finish. Winners never stop."

In this episode with Anthony Valletta we will discuss:

• The role of the "President" in a restaurant company
• Corporate restaurant world
• Empowering managers
• Restaurant tech and where to find the best options
• Gaining loyalty in stead of frequency with a limited marketing budget

Today's sponsor:

For restaurants, large costs can pop up fast, but traditional loans are too slow. That’s why you need Zinch – They’re a direct lender that can fund up to $250,000 in less than 2 days. Apply online and you can get a response within 24 hours. Right now, my listeners get their application fee waived by going to financingthatworks.com. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Discipline
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Patience
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • Humility
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Acquisition and retention of great people
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Do three things really well at one time, and prioritize them properly
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Go above and beyond for a guest no matter what
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   • Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your restaurant walls and how has it influence operations?
   • 1Huddle
9. What is one thing you feel restaurateurs don't do well enough or often enough?
   • Don't say who wrote the rule, afraid to change
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    • No one will remember what you did, they remember how you made them feel
    • Gratitude turns what we have into enough
    • A mistake made twice is a decision

Contact:

Email: avalletta@bartaco.com

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Anthony Valletta for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Cleophus Hethington is the Chef de cuisine at Zak the Baker in Miami. Chef Ophus started his post-school life in the Navy as a corpsman. He left and worked in healthcare for about 8 years before switching careers entirely and working at Yardbird, opened by John Kunkel, in Miami. He worked in many restaurants, and other cities outside of Miami, before becoming the Chef de Cuisine at Zak the Baker, a nationally-known restaurant among the Wynwood Walls of Miami.

Check out episode 250 and episode 971 with John Kunkel as mentioned in today's episode!

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favor success quote/mantra:

• "The solution lies in the salt and spices."

In this episode with Cleophus Hethington we will discuss:

• Imposter syndrome
• How the navy prepares you for a civilian career
• Mental health in the industry
• Race in the industry

Today's sponsor:

At Popmenu, we know that in today’s world, a great hospitality experience usually begins online. Keeping the conversation with guests going beyond the meal also requires simple, powerful, fun technology capable of expression through all kinds of channels. Our team takes pride in helping restaurants put their best foot forward digitally so they can focus on what they do best. We think PDF menus are super boring, we believe 3rd party platforms have had too much say in how consumers find their next dining experience and we deeply feel that sharing your beautiful menu doesn’t have to be so difficult, time-consuming and expensive. As a listener of the Restaurant Unstoppable, you'll receive $100 off your first month of Popmenu!

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • I show up
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Communication
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • Do you care? Do you show up?
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Patients
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Consistency
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Try to not day no
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   • The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your restaurant walls and how has it influence operations?
   • Culture tanks
9. What is one thing you don't feel restaurateurs do well enough of often enough?
   • Open restaurants
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    • The solution lies in the salt and the spices
    • It's just food
    • Food is a starting point

Contact:

Email: chefophus@gmail.com

Instagram: @chefophus

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Cleophus Hethington for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Doug Zeif is the Founder and CEO of Next! Hospitality Advisors. Doug grew up in Queens, NY and began as an amusement park cook and eventually worked as a bagel baker. He was hired as the Assistant General Manager at a steakhouse in 1980. Soon after, he began working for The Cheesecake Factory and took the restaurant from 2 to 31 locations. He has since helped and advised many companies, including Hilton, Doubletree, Waldorf: Astoria, Conrad Hotels, Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, LXR Luxury Resorts & Hotels, Fairmont Hotels, Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons.

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favorite success quote/mantra:

• "If you keep doing what you've been doing, you're going to keep getting what you've been getting."

In this episode with Doug Zeif we will discuss:

• Hotels
• Controlling profit and cost
• Partners
• Accountability

Today's sponsor:

For restaurants, large costs can pop up fast, but traditional loans are too slow. That’s why you need Zinch – They’re a direct lender that can fund up to $250,000 in less than 2 days. Apply online and you can get a response within 24 hours. Right now, my listeners get their application fee waived by going to financingthatworks.com. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Perseverance
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Impatients
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • What can I count on you for?
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • People
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Be able to say you're sorry
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Ask people for great Google reviews
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   • Principle-Centered Leadership by Stephen R. Covey
   • Good to Great by Jim Collins
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your restaurant walls and how has it influence operations?
   • Restaurant365
9. What is one thing you feel restaurateurs don't do well enough or often enough?
   • Don't take care of their people
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    • Work hard
    • Don't look back
    • Look forward

Contact:

Email: doug@nexthospitality.com

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Doug Zeif for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Dave Domzaski is the owner of Barmetrix Miami and the author of The Bar Shift: 41 Short Management Lessons You Don't Have to Learn the Hard Way! Dave began at Barmetrix as the Director of Operations in the Washington D.C. area before becoming the owner of the Barmetrix operation in Miami in 2017. Barmetrix is a small group of passionate people who earn their living by helping restaurants and bars run better/more profitable businesses. They specialize in inventory control, staff training, and management coaching. 

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favor success quote/mantra:

• "Whatever you are, be a good one."

In this episode with Dave Domzalski we will discuss:

• Franchising
• 5 ways to coach up your staff for better numbers

Today's sponsor:

At Popmenu, we know that in today’s world, a great hospitality experience usually begins online. Keeping the conversation with guests going beyond the meal also requires simple, powerful, fun technology capable of expression through all kinds of channels. Our team takes pride in helping restaurants put their best foot forward digitally so they can focus on what they do best. We think PDF menus are super boring, we believe 3rd party platforms have had too much say in how consumers find their next dining experience and we deeply feel that sharing your beautiful menu doesn’t have to be so difficult, time-consuming and expensive. As a listener of the Restaurant Unstoppable, you'll receive $100 off your first month of Popmenu!

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Contact:

Website: https://www.barmetrix.com/

Email: dave.domzalski@barmetrix.com

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Dave Domzalski for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Jamila West is the owner of Rosie's in Miami. Jamila began working in restaurants at the age of 16 as a buster. She attended and graduated from both the C.I.A. and Johnson and Wales. She worked for upscale restaurants in New York, LA, Kuwait, Dubai, and Miami. She and Chef Akino West opened The Copper Door, a bed and breakfast, in Miami, which operated from 2018-2020. They transitioned that business into the currently thriving Rosie's Miami, a full-service Southern-American restaurant.

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favorite success quote/mantra:

• "Capitalize on things that are easy for you."

In this episode with Jamila West we will discuss:

• Self-awareness
• Graduating from both the C.I.A. and Johnson and Wales
• Working Kuwait as a young restaurant professional
• Restaurant openings
• Training
• Being in business with your significant other
• Mental health in the industry

Today's sponsor:

For restaurants, large costs can pop up fast, but traditional loans are too slow. That’s why you need Zinch – They’re a direct lender that can fund up to $250,000 in less than 2 days. Apply online and you can get a response within 24 hours. Right now, my listeners get their application fee waived by going to financingthatworks.com. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Sense of people
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Organization
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • Smile
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Evolving the business financially
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Have pride in what you are doing
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Uniform choice
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   • Setting The Table by Danny Meyer
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your restaurant walls and how has it influence operations?
   • xtraCHEF
9. What is one thing you feel restaurateurs don't do well enough or often enough?
   • Being on the floor and out of the office
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    • Give back to your community
    • Lead by example
    • Have fun

Contact:

Instagram: @rosiesmia

Website: https://www.rosiesmia.com/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Jamila West for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

John Kunkel is the Founder & CEO of 50 Eggs Hospitality. John founded 50 Eggs back in 2004. This world-renowned hospitality group houses several forward-thinking concepts, including Capri, Spring Chicken, Wakuda, Yardbird, Spritz, and Chica. 50 Eggs Hospitality Group is a full-service culinary and hospitality firm focusing on developing cutting-edge brands that deliver unparalleled dining experiences throughout the United States and abroad. For John's full story and background, check out episode 250 with John Kunkel when he was first featured on Restaurant Unstoppable.

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favor success quote/mantra:

• "The Man in the Arena." by Theodore Roosevelt

In this episode with John Kunkel we will discuss:

• Expansion, scaling, growth, and the future of both the industry and 50 Eggs Hospitality

Today's sponsor:

At Popmenu, we know that in today’s world, a great hospitality experience usually begins online. Keeping the conversation with guests going beyond the meal also requires simple, powerful, fun technology capable of expression through all kinds of channels. Our team takes pride in helping restaurants put their best foot forward digitally so they can focus on what they do best. We think PDF menus are super boring, we believe 3rd party platforms have had too much say in how consumers find their next dining experience and we deeply feel that sharing your beautiful menu doesn’t have to be so difficult, time-consuming and expensive. As a listener of the Restaurant Unstoppable, you'll receive $100 off your first month of Popmenu!

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Discipline
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Patience
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • Passion, enthusiasm
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Staffing
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Integrity
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Hospitality, personalize service
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   • Setting the Table by Danny Meyer
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your restaurant walls and how has it influence operations?
   • Toast
   • Tock
   • Restaurant 365
9. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
   • High integrity, do the right thing
   • Take care of the ones you love
   • Do your best, no matter what

Contact:

Website: https://www.50eggsinc.com

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to John Kunkel for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!

Ian Fleischmann is the Executive Chef at Fabel Miami. Chef Ian began in the industry at the age of 14 as a dishwasher. From 2009-2013 he worked at Yamato Japanese Steakhouse where he became a Sous Chef. He then attended culinary school and got his start in the hotel restaurant industry at the Four Seasons in Denver. He moved on to Brava by Brad Kilgore and then over to Highgate Hotels, from Groot Hospitality in Miami. He opened Fabel Miami in December of 2022.

Unstoppables! Please consider taking this survey about our listener demographics so that we can better determine how to best serve our listeners. Less than 10 simple questions. Here is the link: CLICK HERE

Show notes…

Calls to ACTION!!!

• Join Restaurant Unstoppable Network and get your first 30 days on me!  Connect with my past guest and a community of superfans.
• Subscribe to the Restaurant Unstoppable YouTube Channel
• Join the private Unstoppable Facebook Group
• Join the email list! (Scroll Down to get the Vendor List!)

Favorite success quote/mantra:

• "Do or do not. There is no try."

In this episode with Ian Fleischmann we will discuss:

• Efficiency
• Organization
• "Briefing" and "debreifing"
• High volume hotel restaurants
• Developing a personal style in cooking

Today's sponsor:

For restaurants, large costs can pop up fast, but traditional loans are too slow. That’s why you need Zinch – They’re a direct lender that can fund up to $250,000 in less than 2 days. Apply online and you can get a response within 24 hours. Right now, my listeners get their application fee waived by going to financingthatworks.com. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Join the 60-day Restaurant Systems Pro FREE TRAINING. This is something that has never been done before. This 60-day event is at no cost to you, but it is not for everyone. Fred Langley, CEO of Restaurant Systems Pro, will lead a group of restaurateurs through the Restaurant Systems Pro software and set up the systems for your restaurant. During the 60 days, Fred will walk you through the Restaurant Systems Pro Process and help you crush the following goals: Recipe Costing Cards; Guidance in your books for accounting; Cash controls; Sales Forecasting(With Accuracy); Checklists; Budgeting for the entire year; Scheduling for profit; More butts in seats and more… Click Here to learn more.

Knowledge bombs

1. Which “it factor” habit, trait, or characteristic you believe most contributes to your success?
   • Brute force
2. What is your biggest weakness?
   • Ego
3. What's one thing you ask or look for when interviewing/growing your team?
   • Honesty and consistency
4. What's a current challenge? How are you dealing with it?
   • Finding honest people
5. Share one code of conduct or behavior you teach your team.
   • Consistency
6. What is one uncommon standard of service you teach your staff?
   • Don't say no to the guest
7. What's one book we must read to become a better person or restaurant owner?
   • Setting the Table by Danny Meyer
   • GET THIS BOOK FOR FREE AT AUDIBLE.COM 
8. What's one piece of technology you've adopted within your restaurant walls and how has it influence operations?
   • Whisk
   • xtraCHEF
9. What is one thing you feel restaurateurs don't do well enough or often enough?
   • Manage finances property
10. If you got the news that you'd be leaving this world tomorrow and all memories of you, your work, and your restaurants would be lost with your departure with the exception of 3 pieces of wisdom you could leave behind for the good of humanity, what would they be?
    • Do or do not
    • Don't put too much stock in the moment
    • Take some time off

Contact:

Instagram: @ian_fleischmann

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for joining today! Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the top of the post.

Also, please leave an honest review for the Restaurant Unstoppable Podcast on iTunes! Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated! They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them.

And finally, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates.

Huge thanks to Ian Fleischmann for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

Restaurant Unstoppable is a free podcast. One of the ways I'm able to make it free is by earning a commission when sharing certain products with you. I've made it a core value to only share tools, resources, and services my guest mentors have recommend, first. If you're finding value in my podcast, please use my links!