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FORGET THE AWARDS – The Power of Being Someone’s Favourite Restaurant

Yes, another blog post inspired by the incredible Danny Meyer and his views on hospitality

Introduction

In the competitive world of dining, it’s easy for restaurant owners to become consumed with the desire to be the best. But what if you focused on becoming your customers’ favourite restaurant instead of chasing after accolades and awards? The truth is, being the best is subjective, and opinions on what makes a restaurant excellent will always vary. In contrast, no one can argue against someone’s personal favourite. In this blog, we’ll explore why striving to be everyone’s favourite restaurant can lead to tremendous success and satisfaction for you and your patrons.

  1. The Subjectivity of “The Best”

The idea of being the best restaurant in town is tempting, but the reality is that it’s an elusive and ever-changing goal. What one person considers the best may vastly differ from another’s perspective. Factors such as taste, service, atmosphere, and even location can all influence someone’s opinion on what makes a restaurant the best. By accepting that you may not be able to please everyone, you’ll be able to focus on what really matters: creating a memorable experience for your customers.

  1. The Power of Personal Connections

A strong emotional connection between your restaurant and customers is a powerful asset. When you strive to be someone’s favourite restaurant, you’re not just aiming to provide great food or service; you’re creating an experience that resonates with them on a deeper level. This connection can lead to repeat visits, loyal customers, and even brand ambassadors who will passionately recommend your restaurant to others.

  1. Building a Loyal Customer Base

While winning awards and accolades can undoubtedly bring in new customers, it’s important to remember that a loyal customer base is the backbone of any successful restaurant. By striving to be everyone’s favourite, you’re prioritizing the experience of your patrons, which in turn fosters loyalty. Loyal customers come back time and time again and spread the word about your restaurant, ultimately leading to more business.

  1. Letting Go of the Comparison Trap

When you focus on being the best, it’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly comparing your restaurant to others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction, which can negatively impact your business. By shifting your focus to being everyone’s favourite, you can let go of these comparisons and instead concentrate on creating a unique experience that sets your restaurant apart from the competition.

  1. Enjoying the Journey

As a restaurant owner, it’s essential to find joy and satisfaction in your work. By focusing on becoming everyone’s favourite restaurant, you’re allowing yourself to enjoy the journey rather than getting caught up in the competition. When you prioritize making your customers happy, you’ll find that success and contentment naturally follow.

Conclusion

The pursuit of being the best restaurant can be a never-ending battle, as opinions and tastes are always changing. Instead, shift your focus to becoming your customers’ favourite restaurant, which allows you to create a deep emotional connection and a loyal customer base. Let go of the need to compare yourself to others and enjoy the journey of providing unforgettable experiences for your patrons. Ultimately, being someone’s favourite restaurant is a much more meaningful and fulfilling accomplishment than chasing after fleeting accolades and awards.

Watch Danny Meyer on hospitality HERE

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