Podcasts about restaurant marketing

Last week I was in Miami with a few hundred other entreprenuers and I left with some great ideas. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

What does it take to introduce an entire country to a cuisine they've never heard of—and scale it into a multi-million-dollar empire? Ivan Iricanin pulled it off with AMBAR, turning an obscure idea into one of the most successful and unique restaurant groups in the country.In today's episode, Ivan breaks down how he created product-market fit where none existed, scaled a culturally unfamiliar concept into a household name, and mastered the economics of an unlimited tasting menu—without racing to the bottom. You'll hear how he used hospitality as a weapon, designed operations for profitability, and built a team that could support explosive growth in both the U.S. and abroad.If you're sitting on an unconventional idea or wondering how to scale in a crowded market, this one's for you. To learn more about Ambar and the group behind one of the most successful Balkan concepts in the world, visit https://www.ambarrestaurant.com.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

You're taking the effort with social media posts on platforms like Facebook, but it's doing NOTHING - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

Most chefs build restaurants. Gavin Kaysen built a legacy. With his Synergy Series book, Gavin captures years of mentorship, collaboration, and lessons from 25 of the country's top chefs—all while scaling his own hospitality empire. In this episode, we explore how he turned six years of curated dinners into a blueprint for future generations, the power of mentorship in shaping the industry, and why chasing comfort kills creativity. If you've ever dreamed of turning your work into lasting impact, this is the conversation you've been waiting for. To learn more about his restaurants, the Synergy Series book, and his work with the nonprofit Mentor, visit https://gavinkaysen.com/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I tackle the current state of SEO and why traditional strategies can be both expensive and ineffective. Instead, I share a smarter approach I call “SEO jacking”—a method that boosts visibility by partnering with established local media and influencers. It's all about giving restaurant owners practical, actionable ways to build their online presence without relying on costly SEO tactics.  Takeaways:Most restaurant owners think they need more guests.Profit isn't random, it's engineered.SEO is often seen as too expensive or exhausting.Traditional SEO is slow, expensive, and unreliable.Partnering with top-ranking sites is more effective than outranking them.SEO jacking boosts credibility and visibility quickly.Media folks are more likely to write about you after a great experience.Crafting win-win pitches is essential for collaboration.Google wants trusted sources, so borrow their credibility.Visibility can be achieved faster than traditional blogging methods.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Full Comp and Profitability Masterclass01:48 The Relevance of SEO in the Restaurant Industry05:36 SEO Jacking: A New Approach to VisibilityIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

Use this tactic to get more of the BEST comments possible and drive new customers into your restaurant - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

Most chefs wear burnout as a badge of honor. Scott Crawford wears balance and transparency. After years of struggling with addiction, Scott made a radical shift—not just in his own life, but in how he runs his restaurants. From zero-tolerance harassment policies to no-shift-drinks rules, Scott's approach flips the industry's toxic culture on its head. In this episode, we dig into how owning his story helped him attract the right people, why he's embraced vulnerability in leadership, and the systems he's built to protect his mental health—and his business. If you're ready to rethink what success in this industry looks like, this is the episode for you.To learn more about Crawford Hospitality and the restaurants that are redefining work-life balance in hospitality, visit https://crawfordhospitality.com. ____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Today's podcast is covering my weekly email every Monday, MP Minute.  Our journey is hard, let's get through it together - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

Forget the loyalty programs and outdated marketing tricks. Chris Smith, CEO of Zunzibar, has a different approach—one that turns customers into fans, simplifies operations, and scales with soul. From flipping burgers in college to building a franchise model with a clear mission, Chris shares how focusing on simplicity, relationships, and purpose has helped him create a brand that resonates with customers, team members, and franchisees alike. In this episode, we dive into why fandom beats loyalty, how to build an operation that scales without breaking, and how your personal purpose can power your business growth. To learn more about Zunzibar and how they're blending fast casual with a bar-driven experience, visit https://www.zunzibar.com. Chris's story is proof that when you keep it simple and lead with purpose, the result is a brand people don't just visit—they love.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Google says they are closed, and they turn to Facebook to tell their fans they are not closed.  Whta's wrong wtih that picture?  If they didn't send and email and text, and their only means to announce this is on a rented medium, then a lot! - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I dig into something I wish I'd learned a lot sooner — how to build a profitable restaurant that doesn't eat you alive. Hustle alone won't cut it. I talk about what it really takes to break free from burnout: shifting your mindset and reconnecting with what genuinely fires you up. When we chase what excites us, we craft experiences our guests can't resist. I share how showing up authentically — in how we engage with folks and how we market our businesses — draws in the right people and keeps them coming back. Because at the end of the day, if you build a restaurant that feeds your soul, it'll feed your bank account too.Takeaways:Most restaurant owners think they need more guests.Profit isn't random, it's engineered.You need to change you and the way you see your restaurant.Design a restaurant that you love.Your best customers don't need a great reason to come back.Stop pushing lazy offers.Write marketing campaigns that would make you come in.Audit your menu and guest experience.Build a brand that you would fall in love with.Engage with customers authentically.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Full Comp and Profitability Masterclass01:37 Transforming Your Restaurant's Approach to Marketing05:04 Creating Irresistible Experiences for Guests07:41 Engaging with Customers AuthenticallyIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

In this episode, we break down  "Monthly Attention Plan" featured in PMQ Magazine—a game-changing strategy to keep your restaurant top-of-mind and drive consistent sales. Learn how attracting attention, building a customer database, and retaining loyal guests can create predictable monthly growth. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

Most restaurants throw new hires into the fire and hope they stick. Cassie Miller, VP of Training at Craveworthy Brands, has built a system that keeps them thriving. In this episode, she reveals why generic training is a recipe for churn, how to build real accountability into your culture, and the simple systems that scaled Craveworthy to 19 brands—and counting. If you're ready to turn your team from chaos into consistency, this episode is your roadmap. To learn how Craveworthy Brands turned training into a secret weapon for growth, visit https://craveworthybrands.com. Cassie's story proves that when you invest in people, they invest in you—and your bottom line.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Join us for a deep dive into the world of hospitality as we chat with Ha Ly, Head of Marketing at Pokeworks, a leading player in the fast-evolving food industry. Discover the hospitality strategies and insider insights that make Pokeworks stand out in the restaurant scene. From operational excellence to innovative poke bowl recipes, Ha shares the secrets behind scaling a successful food service brand. Enjoy entertaining stories and industry trends, all served in partnership with Qu, where technology meets culinary creativity. Whether you're a seasoned pro in hospitality or exploring investment opportunities in food service, this episode is packed with valuable information. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

Every Monday we send out an email titled "MPs Minute."  And now, every Monday a podcast will be dedicated to that exact topic.   Today we talk about "One Move = Big Impact!" - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

Most restaurant operators treat tips like a liability—or worse, an afterthought. But Kirk Grogan sees them for what they really are: one of the most powerful tools in your business. As co-founder of TipHaus, Kirk has helped thousands of restaurants transform tip management from a source of stress and legal risk into a lever for culture, retention, and operational clarity. In this episode, we break down why tip strategy is leadership strategy, how transparency builds trust and performance, and what happens when your team feels seen, paid, and empowered. If you think tip management is just about math, this conversation will blow your mind. To learn more about how TipHaus is transforming tip management into a tool for growth, visit https://www.tiphaus.com. ____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Eric of Lost Pizza killed two birds...commandments with one stone. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

It's not 1985, get rid of your marketing plan and replace it with an ATTENTION plan! - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers!

Jack McGarry has achieved the accolades most of us dream about. He's been awarded the best bartender in the world and his NY bar, The Dead Rabbit, was awarded the distinction of Best Bar in the World, a few years after that. But that's not the end of Jack's story. Since hitting the top, Jack has redefined excellence through the lens of bar ownership and has spent the last several years working to become the best owner he can be. Today, we discuss what that looks like in theory and how it manifests itself in practical application. For more information on The Dead Rabbit, visit https://thedeadrabbit.com/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

There will always be someone with an opinion, and today I talk about the topic from MP's Minute, my new weekly email that comes out every Monday. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers! Go to www.americasbestrestaurants.com for help

Miguel Hernandez is a genius. You have never heard me begin a show this way before, but I was absolutely blown away by the fresh perspective Miguel is bringing to restaurant ownership and operations. This is a guy who's scaled to 4 locations in just a couple of years and has financed his growth exclusively through the profits from his active restaurants. Today we discuss how to pick a winner, double revenues, and scale profitability. For more information on Rreal Tacos, visit https://rrealtacos.com/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses. In this episode, I tackle a really common frustration: pouring time and money into marketing when the real problem is the product itself. I break down the brutal but freeing truth: Marketing is a megaphone, not a magician. I share my own hard-earned lessons on how to stop masking product issues with ads and instead zero in on product-market fit. I explain how to test it, iterate fast, and double down on what works — so you can stop wasting dollars and start selling out seats and dishes naturally.Takeaways:Many restaurants fail to profit because they haven't built a strong business behind great food and service.If your concept doesn't resonate with your target market, no amount of marketing will fix it.True product-market fit shows up instantly — seats fill, dishes sell out, buzz spreads organically.Marketing only amplifies what's already working; it can't create demand where none exists.To find product-market fit, test small, track data, listen to feedback, and iterate constantly.Stop trying to revive your weakest menu items — double down on your best sellers and build on what already works.Once you nail product-market fit, that's the time to scale your marketing and growth.Chapters: [00:17] Why Restaurants Struggle Financially  [01:35] Cathy's Question — Is Marketing the Problem?  [02:00] Product-Market Fit Explained  [04:00] Marketing is a Megaphone, Not a Magician  [06:30] Double Down on What Works If you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

Our guests, even our most loyal guests, can cook at home. They don't come to us for nourishment, they come to us for entertainment. Food and beverage done well is performance art and few have done it better than Eleven Madison Park. Today we chat with Natasha McIrvin, former head of the dreamweaver program at EMP. Her job was to build a system that ensured surprise and delight were baked into every guest experience. In our conversation she shares the system she built and the tactics she used to transform servers into the weavers of dreams. To check out what she's working on now visit https://www.thankyou.nyc/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Commondment #1, Attract Attention Today we dig into a great way to gaine MASSIVE attention for your restaurant, paid ads on Facebook and Instagram. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers! Go to www.americasbestrestaurants.com for help

The numbers tell the story. Statistically, it's nearly impossible to scale massively within our industry which is why so few do so. Keith Benjamin is the exception. With over 15 locations under his belt, Keith has broken the mold by systematizing that “it factor” we're all looking to achieve. In today's conversation, we discuss how to build with intention, the tools to create massive awareness, and the essential elements of a cool concept.  For more information on his restaurant group, visit https://uptownhospitality.com/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I make the case for connection over content. Because here's the truth: most restaurant owners are focused on chasing new customers when the gold is sitting right in front of them — the people who already love what you do. I dig into how to build deeper relationships with your existing guests by creating personalized experiences and engaging directly. When we stop broadcasting and start actually connecting, that's when the magic happens. I walk through the exact steps to create marketing that feels personal, meaningful, and intentional — the kind of stuff that makes your best customers feel seen, valued, and eager to come back. If you're ready to stop shouting into the void and start turning loyal guests into your biggest advocates, this episode's for you.Takeaways:You can run a successful restaurant without running a successful restaurant business.Marketing isn't about content. It's about connection.Focus on frequency rather than new customer acquisition.Mass content doesn't create loyalty. Connection does.Your guests aren't looking for noise. They're just looking for a reason to come back.Connection comes from direct engagement, not volume.Create personal one-to-one moments with your customers.Your best customers just need a reason to come back.Make a list of your top guests, create that personalized offer.The math on this is compelling.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability01:06 The Importance of Connection in Marketing03:02 Personalized Marketing Strategies for Customer Retention05:55 Actionable Steps for Engaging Your Best CustomersIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

James Beard award-winning chef Rob Rubba seems to have it all: a blockbuster restaurant that's great for the environment, a happy staff, and work life balance that most of us would kill for. None of this happened by accident. In today's conversation we sit down with the chef to discuss how he architected the life and career of his dreams through the intentional peeling away of everything that did not serve him, his team, or the environment. For more information on the chef and his restaurant, visit https://www.oysteroysterdc.com/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Hosted by The Restaurant Guy and The Finance Guy, Hospitality Hangout delivers hospitality stories, loud ideas, and insider strategies from the most influential hospitality insiders in the game. In this episode, we sit down with Alison Quinn, CEO of Dinova, to talk restaurant transformation, the power of connecting players in business dining, and how to win with a great tech game.We dive into the evolving world of digital hospitality, the role of AI in shaping the guest experience, and what it takes to drive success in hospitality today. Whether you're scaling a brand or just love a fun hangout with bold insights—this one is packed with hospitable energy and hospitality trends you need to know. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

You have to get out of your kitchen and out of your restaurant.  You MUST get into rooms like the one I'm with, a room filled with other high energy entreprenuers.   - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers! Go to www.americasbestrestaurants.com for help

What are you chasing? Is it the money, the fame, or maybe the acclaim that comes with being a successful restaurant owner? Deep down, I think we all know that if we follow our passions, we'll get all three. Few stories illustrate this more beautifully than today's guest Chef Karen Akunowicz. In our conversation, she shares her evolution from chef to restaurateur and how momentum is as much an asset as it is a liability. For more information on the chef and her concepts, visit https://www.karenakunowicz.com____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Commandment #3 of ABR, retain your customers attention, so that you can RETAIN their business. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers! Go to www.americasbestrestaurants.com for help

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I talk about something I think we've gotten backwards in the restaurant industry — loyalty. Too many of us are trying to buy it with discounts and deals. But real loyalty? That comes from connection. I dig into how to move beyond the transactional and start creating experiences that actually mean something to your guests. It's about storytelling. It's about generosity. It's about making people feel like they matter. When you build that kind of emotional connection, you don't need to bribe people to come back — they come back because they want to. And better yet, they tell their friends. If you're looking to turn one-time visitors into lifelong fans, this episode is for you.Takeaways:You can run a successful restaurant without running a successful restaurant business.Most restaurant owners have great food but lack business acumen.Discounts do not drive loyalty; they create transactional relationships.Guests return for the experience, not for discounts.Creating a sense of belonging is key to guest loyalty.Generosity should be intentional and targeted, not random.Memorable experiences lead to word-of-mouth marketing.Identify high-value guest moments for targeted gestures of generosity.Document and share guest stories to enhance marketing efforts.True loyalty is built on experiences, not freebies.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability02:03 The Power of Genuine Connection Over Discounts05:51 Creating Memorable Guest ExperiencesIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

What does it take to go from butcher to executive chef at one of the most iconic restaurant brands in the world—without burning out or selling out? For James Bailey of Momofuku Las Vegas, it's not just about talent. It's about patience, identity, and leadership. In this episode, we dive into the real story behind James' rise through the ranks, how his cultural heritage shaped his cuisine, and why self-awareness—not ego—is the most important skill a chef can develop. If you're in this industry for the long game, this conversation will challenge, ground, and inspire you. To experience his work firsthand, visit Momofuku Las Vegas or head to https://momofuku.com____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

In this powerful and practical episode, we sit down with Kristine Mylls, founder of Mylls Hospitality Marketing, right after her return from the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago. Kristine brings the heat with her Top 10 actionable tips restaurant operators can implement today to improve their marketing efforts. From current trends to the rise of hospitality influencers, we cover it all—with plenty of laughs and real talk along the way.

Commandment #2 of ABR, Build A Database so that you can BUILD a relationship with your customers. - Do you need some help driving sales to your restaurant?   I'm the CEO of America's Best Restaurants. We help restaurant owners get the attention they deserve and find more frequent customers! Go to www.americasbestrestaurants.com for help

I think fear is a massive motivator for so many restaurateurs. So many of us fail to make decisions that move us towards what we want because we're busy making decisions that move us away from what we fear. But what happens when what we fear becomes our reality? What does the end of the road look like? As it turns out, it looks like a new beginning. Today we sit down with Chef Jonathan Sawyer who shares his path to success, overcoming massive setbacks, to achieve the life and career of his dreams. For more information on the chef and his restaurant, visit https://www.kindlingchicago.com/ ____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Restaurant tech isn't just about bells and whistles—it's about ROI. And no one understands that better than Jeremy Julian. With nearly 30 years in restaurant technology and operations, Jeremy has helped thousands of restaurants plug into tools that actually make life easier and businesses more profitable. In this episode, we explore how to audit your tech stack, which systems give you the biggest return, and the smartest ways to implement change without overwhelming your team. If you've ever wondered where to start—or restart—this conversation will save you time, money, and headaches. To dive deeper into restaurant tech and the future of hospitality systems, check out his podcast, Restaurant Technology Guys, or visit https://restauranttechnologyguys.com.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

For over 30 years, Michael Mina has dominated the restaurant scene and today we sit down with the chef to find out how. In today's conversation we dive deep into the tactics tools and strategies Michael has developed over decades to acquire talent, develop leaders, scale operations, and ensure profitability. This is a masterclass in restaurant ownership and operations. For more information on the chef and his restaurant group, visit https://www.michaelmina.net/____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Most operators are stuck running restaurants. Roger Beaudoin teaches them how to run businesses. A 23-year restaurateur turned global coach and the founder of Restaurant Rockstars, Roger has helped thousands of owners escape burnout by installing the systems, culture, and leadership that scale. In this episode, we break down his approach to profitability, his secret to 96% staff retention, and why the difference between success and struggle often comes down to one thing: mindset. To learn more about Restaurant Rockstars and grab a copy of his book Rock Your Restaurant, visit https://www.restaurantrockstars.com. ____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

What do you get when you mix a legendary sandwich shop, a Hollywood icon, and an $8 billion handshake? One hell of a Hospitality Hangout episode. Mike Manzo, COO of Jersey Mike's, joins the show to dish on how the brand became a cult favorite—with over 3,000 locations, a relentless focus on unit-level profitability, and yep, Danny DeVito as their secret weapon. From tamper-proof pickles to military-grade consistency, Mike breaks down what it really takes to scale without selling out. Plus, insider stories about the Blackstone deal, international expansion, and why Mike might owe someone a sandwich (or 5,000). It's meaty, it's motivating, and it's got more than a few laughs. Episode Credits:Produced by: Branded Hospitality MediaHosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy FrischlingProducer: Julie ZuckerCreative Director: Adam LevineShow Runner: Drewe RaimiPost Production: Three Cheers Creativewww.thehospitalityhangout.com

What if your restaurant wasn't just a place to eat—but a part of your guest's identity? Kathy and Ben Sidell have mastered the art of emotional branding, turning Salty Girl and Sweet Boy into lifestyle experiences people feel proud to align with. In this episode, we explore how they've built high-volume, high-loyalty concepts without sacrificing soul. From pandemic pivots to product lines, from tinned fish to tins of cookies, Kathy and Ben share what it takes to create businesses that connect, inspire, and thrive—even in the hardest moments. To learn more about Salty Girl and Sweet Boy, visit https://www.saltygirl.com and https://www.sweetboy.com. Their journey proves that the best restaurant brands don't just feed people—they make them feel something.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I break down exactly what it takes to build a recognizable brand and boost profitability through smarter marketing. And I'm not talking about throwing money at ads or posting randomly on social — I'm talking about strategy. Structure. Systems.I dive into how constraints in your marketing — yes, constraints — actually create clarity. I talk about the power of having a clear brand narrative and how leveraging AI can make content creation faster, easier, and way more effective.One of the game-changers I share is working off a monthly theme — keeping your messaging tight and your content consistent. When you focus your story and show up with intention, your audience listens… and they show up.Takeaways:Most restaurant marketing fails due to lack of structure.Tight constraints are essential for effective marketing.Repetition is key to gaining audience attention.Your audience is constantly changing; adapt your marketing accordingly.Creativity thrives within clear boundaries.Use AI to enhance, not replace, your marketing efforts.Build a compelling narrative around your brand.Focus on a monthly theme to guide your marketing.Discipline in marketing leads to momentum.Engage your audience with consistent messaging across platforms.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability02:11 The Importance of Structured Marketing06:00 Creating a Compelling Brand NarrativeIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

Most restaurant operators are flying blind—tracking the wrong metrics and chasing problems that don't actually exist. Jim Taylor, founder of Benchmark Sixty, is on a mission to fix that. With decades of experience in operations and a passion for data-driven decision-making, Jim has helped hundreds of restaurants ditch outdated systems and find freedom through smarter analytics. In this episode, we unpack why labor cost as a percentage of sales is broken, how to replace it with real-time productivity metrics, and the simple formula that can make your restaurant more profitable—starting this week.  To learn more about Benchmark Sixty and how his team is transforming restaurant operations through smarter, simpler metrics, visit https://www.benchmarksixty.com.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Some restaurants chase trends. Lee Maen builds brands that shape them. As co-founder of Innovative Dining Group, Lee has redefined what it means to create restaurants that are as memorable for their vibe as they are for their food. From Sushi Roku to BOA Steakhouse, he's turned hospitality into a high-performance art form—blending ambiance, precision, and consistency across markets and decades. In this episode, we dive into how IDG builds loyalty without relying on celebrity chefs, maintains profit without sacrificing soul, and scales without losing what made it special in the first place. To learn more about Innovative Dining Group and their iconic concepts, visit https://innovativedining.com.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I dig into one of the biggest blind spots in our industry: the real reason guests walk through our doors. Most restaurant owners think we're selling food or service — but that's not it. What we're actually selling is transformation. People come to us because they want to feel something — connection, escape, celebration, comfort. When you start to understand the emotional and experiential shifts you're providing, your entire approach to marketing changes. I lay out how to identify the transformation your restaurant offers and how to communicate that clearly to your guests. When you stop selling tasks and start selling outcomes, revenue follows. This one's about shifting your mindset so you can grow smarter, not just harder.Takeaways:Most restaurant owners are selling food, but successful ones sell transformation.The clarity of the promise is crucial for growth.People buy experiences, not just products.Identify the memorable moments in your dining experience.Transformational marketing can lead to higher prices and customer loyalty.Define the transformation your restaurant provides.Map out your unique process for delivering that transformation.Price based on outcomes, not inputs.Marketing should reflect the emotional resonance of your brand.Engage your team in understanding the transformation you offer.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability01:12 Understanding Revenue Ceilings and Transformation02:39 The Shift from Selling Products to Selling Experiences04:06 Defining and Delivering Transformation05:32 Marketing the Transformation EffectivelyIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

Chef John Currence did not set out to build an empire when he opened his first restaurant in Oxford, Mississippi but that's what happened. John is a guy a lot like us. He built one concept, then two, then three in a very linear way over time. Then can Big Bad Breakfast. This is a restaurant that John launched for $65,000 and it became a national brand in a matter of years. Today we discuss how his brands have evolved to reach a national stage and how he's had to evolve as an entrepreneur and chef in response. For more information on the chef and his brands, visit https://citygroceryonline.com/.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

Burnout isn't about working too much—it's about what drains you. Anese Cavanaugh has spent the last two decades helping leaders master their Intentional Energetic Presence (IEP) to create thriving, engaged teams without running themselves into the ground. Her work with Zingerman's and top companies worldwide has proven that energy, not time, is our most valuable resource. In this episode, we dive into the real cause of burnout, how leaders unknowingly drain their own teams, and the small shifts that create massive impact. If you want to lead with more energy, influence, and authenticity, this episode is a game-changer. To learn more about Intentional Energetic Presence (IEP) and how to lead without burnout, visit https://activechoices.com/. ____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I get into something most restaurant owners overlook — branding. Look, great food is the baseline. It gets you in the game, but it's not what keeps the dining room full. What really moves the needle is a compelling brand story — something that makes people feel seen, understood, and part of something bigger than just a meal. I walk through how to build that kind of connection with your guests. From shaping your brand identity to refining your marketing efforts, I lay out the strategies that drive traffic and build loyalty. If you're ready to stop being “just another restaurant” and start standing out in a crowded market, this one's for you.TakeawaysMoney is the primary problem for restaurants.Great food is expected; branding is essential.Diners need a reason to care beyond the plate.A restaurant's brand should evoke feelings of belonging.Compliments do not equate to customer conversions.Stories about the restaurant are crucial for marketing.Reframe your restaurant's concept to attract the right audience.Audit your brand from a stranger's perspective.Identify ways your brand can stand out beyond food.Building a memorable experience is key to success.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Restaurant Profitability02:06 The Importance of Branding in Restaurants06:00 Building a Memorable Restaurant ExperienceIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

Great food gets guests in the door, but a great team keeps them coming back. Shawn Gawle, the awarded chef behind Camaraderie, has mastered the art of creating exceptional dining experiences by prioritizing mentorship, culture, and intentional leadership. In this episode, we explore Shawn's journey from celebrated chef to chef-owner, how his philosophy of shared success shapes his restaurant, and the innovative ways he's redefining hospitality. If you're looking for practical insights on building a thriving team and unforgettable guest experiences, this episode is for you. Be sure to check out Camaraderie.____________________________________________________________Full Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars