I read an article by Ruth Reichl on her very fine Blog Paris by Mouth. It was about going to the famous old temple of excess restaurant L’Ami Louis with her husband and son. “A restaurant I’d been vainly trying to get into for years. Michael, my husband, was only moderately more enthusiastic. Another overpriced French meal, he grumbled, making it clear that this was his idea of hell. It was late when the evening ended. That, my son announced as we made our way back to the hotel, is a very fine restaurant.
This is a very insightful glimpse into the trials and tribulations of the restaurant industry. My favorite customer-service story was actually at Stars when Jeremiah Tower personally led us to a closed section of the restaurant and served us as we were racing to get to a performance nearby. He did not need the additional two top as the restaurant was packed and we didn't have reservations. However, he took us in as fellows in the industry and ensured we were well taken care of. That is the ultimate example of there being no "no" in hospitality and a story I share with anyone who will listen to what truly makes a memorable dining experience.
From fantasies about accompanying you on one of your many food adventures around the world, to understanding what makes a great restaurant I always look forward to your posts! I save them so I can take my time and savor. The pandemic changed my life so that going out to eat has become a luxury. I spend a lot of time choosing a restaurant as I want and hope everything is perfect. There are so many choices. How to know?
Everyone in the industry needs to read this article. If customers and restaurants are educated and informed, diners experiences can only be better. IMHO. Thank you Mr Tower. I’m a fan for life.
Thank you Jeremiah for explaining in detail the nuances of everything that goes into the restaurant experience. It was a good read. Thanks for posting.
Nice piece Jeremiah. All excellent points. But that article about L’Ami Louis you quote at the top? Meg didn’t write it. I did.
Brilliant. Pass it around.
This is a very insightful glimpse into the trials and tribulations of the restaurant industry. My favorite customer-service story was actually at Stars when Jeremiah Tower personally led us to a closed section of the restaurant and served us as we were racing to get to a performance nearby. He did not need the additional two top as the restaurant was packed and we didn't have reservations. However, he took us in as fellows in the industry and ensured we were well taken care of. That is the ultimate example of there being no "no" in hospitality and a story I share with anyone who will listen to what truly makes a memorable dining experience.
Fantastic set of restaurant rules of engagement! It’s like a window into your mind - loved it!!
Chef, thank you for sharing a lifetime of valuable information. It is applicable to many customer service operations.
Excellent overview- all good points. I'll print this out and review it with our staff as many times as it takes to make it happen. Thank you! -m.
From fantasies about accompanying you on one of your many food adventures around the world, to understanding what makes a great restaurant I always look forward to your posts! I save them so I can take my time and savor. The pandemic changed my life so that going out to eat has become a luxury. I spend a lot of time choosing a restaurant as I want and hope everything is perfect. There are so many choices. How to know?
Everyone in the industry needs to read this article. If customers and restaurants are educated and informed, diners experiences can only be better. IMHO. Thank you Mr Tower. I’m a fan for life.
Thank you Jeremiah for explaining in detail the nuances of everything that goes into the restaurant experience. It was a good read. Thanks for posting.