Restauranttopia: A Show for Local Independent Restaurants
We love locally owned independent restaurants. These businesses build strong communities by linking neighbors in a web of economic and social relationships. The more the independent restaurants are thriving, the healthier the community will be! We want to help restaurant owners and operators hone their competitive edge through effective marketing and business practices. Restauranttopia focuses on all things related to restaurant management and operations from hosts David Ross, Brian Seitz, and chef Anthony Hamilton. We feature interviews and restaurant success stories, along with insights on cost control, marketing, management and personnel issues. Tune in for marketing ideas and tactics from restaurant business experts, gathered from lessons from restaurants around the US.
Episodes
Your restaurant's most powerful marketing tool? The menu.
In this episode, the team dives deep into one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in your restaurant: the menu. From visual psychology and printing strategies to layout, material choices, and pricing tactics, this conversation is packed with practical tips to help you treat your menu like what it truly is—your #1 marketing and ...
In this powerhouse episode, the team unpacks real-world, actionable marketing tactics that restaurant owners can implement immediately to drive traffic, create loyal customers, and boost profits—without relying on gimmicks or deep discounts. From the power of thoughtful guest experiences to bounce-back promotions and handwritten letters to lapsed customers, this is a masterclass in doing marketing the right w...
In this episode of Restauranttopia, Dave and Brian explore the growing non-alcoholic beverage movement and why it's a must for modern restaurants. They break down the cultural shifts, customer expectations, and real profitability behind offering thoughtful non-alcoholic options. Learn practical ways to adapt your menu, train your staff, and create a welcoming experience for all guests—drinkers and non-drinkers alike.
Summary
In this episode, Brian shares five key lessons from Las Vegas that every restaurant operator should hear. From faster drink service to private room optimization and upsell strategy, these practical insights are designed to boost revenue while enhancing the guest experience.
Learn how to modernize your operations, empower your staff, and grow profitability—starting tonight.
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In this thought-provoking episode, the team explores how pain and suffering can cultivate stronger leadership skills. Drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy, Buddhist parables, and personal experiences, they discuss the concept of the "two arrows"—how pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional—and how leaders can apply this mindset to stay composed and guide their teams effectively.
T...
Many restaurant operators are unknowingly signing their businesses away with predatory merchant cash advances (MCAs). These high-cost financing options promise fast money but come with crippling repayment terms that can put restaurants out of business.
In this episode, we break down:
- What MCAs really are and why they’re dangerous
A restaurant’s atmosphere can make or break the guest experience, but many operators overlook key environmental factors. In this episode, we break down MALT – Music, Ambiance, Lighting, and Temperature—the four elements that directly influence customer comfort, spending habits, and return visits. Learn how to fine-tune your restaurant’s environment to create an experience that keeps guests coming back.
Are you making these five costly restaurant mistakes?
Many independent restaurant operators are leaving money on the table by overlooking simple but essential strategies. In this episode, we break down five common mistakes and how to fix them right away.
Listen now to learn:
- Why tracking prime costs daily can improve profit...
In this second part of our interview with Jason Brooks—speaker, author, and coach—we continue the conversation on leadership in the restaurant industry. With over 30 years of experience, Jason shares key insights from his upcoming book, including how to master meetings, provide impactful feedback, and harness the power of influence. We also discuss his inspiring partnership with The Giving Kitchen, where he’s...
In this episode, we sit down with Jason E. Brooks, a seasoned restaurant industry veteran turned speaker, author, and coach. Jason shares insights from his 30-year journey from dishwasher to VP of Operations, as well as highlights from his upcoming book on hospitality leadership. We explore his actionable leadership framework (MODEL), the importance of KPIs, fostering ownership among teams, and the power of one-on-one engagement. J...
In this episode, the Restauranttopia team dives into the essentials of optimizing your online ordering platform with high-quality food photography and effective menu descriptions. Learn how these small but impactful changes can increase sales, enhance customer experience, and showcase your brand's best.
In this episode of Restauranttopia, we explore creative ways to elevate your guests' dining experience and keep them coming back for more. From interactive menus and themed nights to customer spotlights and unique partnerships, we share actionable ideas to help you entertain, engage, and delight your customers. Don't miss this deep dive into the strategies that will set your restaurant apart in 2024!
Show Notes: Episode 161 "Are ...
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How to buy or sell a restaurant with Brad Ruth.
https://restauranttopia.com/episode-159-how-to-buy-or-sell-a-restaurant-with-brad-ruth/
Welcome back, dear readers, to our latest episode recap. This time, we had the pleasure of hosting the insightful Chip Klose, author of "The Restaurant Marketing Mindset." With Brian Seitz and Anthony Hamilton guiding the conversation, this episode was nothing short of a culinary marketing masterclass!
The magnetic culinary scene of Cleveland takes center stage on the latest episode of Restauranttopia! Our very own Brian Seitz had the plea...
Episode 156 is the first of a two-part series with Chef Doug Katz and Todd Thompson talking about their Restaurant Group, how they navigated the pandemic, and operating multiple successful rest...
About Restauranttopia
Restauranttopia is your go-to podcast for everything restaurant related. From operations to marketing, and everything in between, we bri...
Welcome to another exciting episode of Restauranttopia! In today's episode, we dive deep into a topic that every restaurateur should be well-acquainted with: Preparing your restaurant for sale. We're privileged to have Robin Gagnon, co-founder of "We Sell Restaurants", with us to demystify the ...
Episode 153: Increasing Efficiency with Mobile Communication Platforms
https://restauranttopia.com/episode-153-increasing-efficiency-with-mobile-communication-platforms/
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