In this episode of "Unlocking Your World of Creativity," host Mark Stinson explores creativity in the hospitality and restaurant business. Tom Rutledge, a seasoned restaurant industry expert, is the guest, offering insights into running a restaurant successfully. Here are some key highlights and quotes from the episode: - Tom Rutledge shares his 30 years of experience in the restaurant business, emphasizing that being a chef is only a part of running a restaurant. - The podcast explores the importance of profitability, systems, and creative problem-solving in the restaurant industry. Challenges in the Restaurant Business - Tom highlights the significant challenges faced by restaurant operators, especially in the post-pandemic era. Labor costs have increased significantly. - The importance of prime cost, which includes cost of goods and labor, is discussed. The prime cost should be around 65% to maintain profitability. Restaurant Experiences - Tom emphasizes the importance of creating unique experiences and the storytelling aspect of a restaurant. - He advises customers to give feedback directly to the restaurant owner or manager rather than relying solely on online reviews. Constructive feedback is valuable for improvement. Supporting Local Restaurants - Tom urges people to support local restaurants and suggests that even small gestures like ordering a cocktail or appetizer can make a difference. - He emphasizes the need for patience when dining out, as staffing issues can lead to longer wait times.
