Summary

In this episode of the Restaurant Owners Uncorked podcast, host Wil Brawley speaks with Jay Chung, a restaurant owner with a rich immigrant background. Jay shares his family's journey from Korea to Ghana and then to the United States, where they established their roots in the restaurant business. The conversation delves into the challenges of restaurant ownership, the importance of finding balance in life, and the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Jay emphasizes the significance of creating emotional connections with guests, building a strong team culture, and the value of feedback and adaptability in achieving success. He also reflects on the importance of independent restaurants in fostering community and the lessons learned throughout his journey.

Takeaways

• Jay's family background shaped his appreciation for the restaurant business.
• Cultural transitions can be challenging but rewarding.
• Finding balance in the restaurant industry is crucial to avoid burnout.
• COVID-19 forced many restaurants to adapt quickly to survive.
• Understanding customer demographics is key to success.
• Creating emotional connections with guests enhances their experience.
• Building a strong team culture is essential for operational success.
• Economic challenges require adaptability and resilience.
• Feedback from customers can lead to significant improvements.
• Independent restaurants play a vital role in community building.

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly. Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.

Also brought to you by WebstaurantStore—the ultimate destination for restaurant pros. Whether you're launching a new café or prepping for the holiday rush, we’ve got you covered with top-notch equipment and everyday essentials, all at unbeatable prices. And right now, you can score $50 off your order of $250 or more when you use code WEBSAVE50 at checkout. But act fast—this deal ends December 31st. Visit https://www.WebstaurantStore.com to keep your kitchen running strong. This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

Summary

In this episode of Restaurant Owners Uncorked, host Wil Brawley speaks with Chris Deferio, founder of Keys to the Shop, about his extensive experience in the coffee industry. They discuss the importance of quality in coffee shops, the role of community, and the challenges of scaling a business responsibly. Chris shares insights on mentorship, the significance of purpose in business, and the growth mindset necessary for success in the hospitality industry.

Takeaways

• Chris Deferio has been in the coffee business for 25 years.
• Keys to the Shop aims to help coffee shops thrive.
• Quality in coffee shops goes beyond just the product.
• Starbucks popularized the concept of coffee as a community space.
• Scaling should be done with intention and integrity.
• Financial success often follows a focus on purpose.
• Mentorship is crucial for young professionals in coffee.
• A growth mindset is essential for enduring success.
• Sitting in silence can lead to deeper understanding.
• Running a coffee shop is more challenging than opening one. Learning through experience is crucial for growth.
• Podcasting has evolved into a significant engagement tool.
• Consulting in the coffee industry requires a balance of depth and breadth.
• Reading habits can influence learning and personal growth.
• Intentional content consumption leads to better understanding.
• Technology should enhance, not replace, human connection.
• Coffee shops face significant challenges in today's market.
• Simplicity in business practices can lead to better customer experiences.
• Authenticity is key to building lasting customer relationships.
• Margins in the coffee industry are tight, requiring strategic thinking. Embrace the imperfections in your business as part of its history.
• Lean into the flaws and inefficiencies rather than competing with larger corporations.
• You cannot outsource your passion; it is essential to your business's success.
• Removing unnecessary elements can often be more beneficial than adding new ones.
• Embrace the journey of growth and adaptation in your business.
• Ownership and accountability are crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Physical and mental well-being significantly impact business success.
• Simplicity in health and business practices can lead to profound results.
• Creating meaningful customer experiences is vital for business retention.
• The current business landscape offers opportunities for those who focus on the basics..

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly. Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.

Also brought to you by WebstaurantStore—the ultimate destination for restaurant pros. Whether you're launching a new café or prepping for the holiday rush, we’ve got you covered with top-notch equipment and everyday essentials, all at unbeatable prices. And right now, you can score $50 off your order of $250 or more when you use code WEBSAVE50 at checkout. But act fast—this deal ends December 31st. Visit https://www.WebstaurantStore.com to keep your kitchen running strong. This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly. Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.

Also brought to you by WebstaurantStore—the ultimate destination for restaurant pros. Whether you're launching a new café or prepping for the holiday rush, we’ve got you covered with top-notch equipment and everyday essentials, all at unbeatable prices. And right now, you can score $50 off your order of $250 or more when you use code WEBSAVE50 at checkout. But act fast—this deal ends December 31st. Visit https://www.WebstaurantStore.com to keep your kitchen running strong. This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly. Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.

Also brought to you by WebstaurantStore—the ultimate destination for restaurant pros. Whether you're launching a new café or prepping for the holiday rush, we’ve got you covered with top-notch equipment and everyday essentials, all at unbeatable prices. And right now, you can score $50 off your order of $250 or more when you use code WEBSAVE50 at checkout. But act fast—this deal ends December 31st. Visit https://www.WebstaurantStore.com to keep your kitchen running strong. This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly. Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.

Also brought to you by WebstaurantStore—the ultimate destination for restaurant pros. Whether you're launching a new café or prepping for the holiday rush, we’ve got you covered with top-notch equipment and everyday essentials, all at unbeatable prices. And right now, you can score $50 off your order of $250 or more when you use code WEBSAVE50 at checkout. But act fast—this deal ends December 31st. Visit https://www.WebstaurantStore.com to keep your kitchen running strong. This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. 

Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.

Shawn owns restaurants and bars in Durham, NC. He hauled a trailer full of supplies and a giant street cart up to Marshall a week after Helene to cook hot meals for three days. AMAZING story of what's going on at one of the hardest hit, small N.C. mountain towns. Hint: Americans are incredible at stepping up and helping each other and getting stuff done in a crisis.

The Highlands Kitchen + Bar owner, Megan Venuto, Megan is a single mom with four children and her restaurant was her livelihood. It's gone, the river is where the real estate used to be, and she didn't have flood insurance. 

Here's her godundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/us-rebuild-our-brand-and-what-we-lost-due-to-this-tragedy

This episode is brought to you by Schedulefly.

Super Simple Restaurant Employee Scheduling Software + Legendary Customer Service + Low Price Point. 

Since 2007 we've served over 20,000 restaurants and hospitality businesses.Head on over to https://www.schedulefly.com for your 30-day free trial, or feel free to call co-owner Wil Brawley on his cell phone to learn more: 704-906-2031.