Running Restaurants

Peter Yang, co-founder of Pokeworks, shares the inspiring story of building a successful restaurant franchise from the ground up. Discover how Pokeworks went from a single location in New York City to a nationwide sensation with over 70 locations. Jaime Oikle and Peter Yang discuss the unique aspects of the Pokeworks franchising model, including their focus on small footprints, efficient operations, and prime real estate selection. Tune in to learn about the power of social media marketing, building a strong loyalty program, and the importance of finding the right franchise partners. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the restaurant industry or franchising opportunities.Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurantsSponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

Empowering restaurants to thrive in the digital age, Checkmate offers a suite of innovative solutions. In this episode, Jaime Oikle chats with Vishal Agarwal, the founder and CEO of Checkmate, a tech game-changer for restaurants. Initially focused on simplifying payment processes, Vishal discovered restaurant operators' deeper challenges with managing orders from multiple platforms. That's when the lightbulb went off! Vishal and his team created a suite of tools that not only simplify payments but also streamline online ordering, kiosks, and even phone orders using AI. Tune in to explore the future of restaurant technology and the impact of Checkmate’s solutions.Learn more about Checkmate at https://www.itsacheckmate.com/ and check out more great tips at runningrestaurants.com.Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jasonSponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.com

I'm a book aficionado so I loved puting this together -- Twenty absolutely solid book recommendations from a stellar collection of restaurant industry execs and insiders. Be sure to add some of these to your library or wish list...The Who...Jordan Boesch of 7shiftsTony Smith of Restaurant365Michel Falcon of Brasa PeruvianRushi Patel of HomebaseAlex Sambvani of Slang.aiVishal Agarwal of CheckmateAndrew Pudalov of Rush BowlsBrett Campbell of LomaAngelo Esposito of Wisk.AI The Books...Radical CandorThe 15 Commitments of Conscious LeadershipSetting the TableThe Hard Thing About Hard ThingsZero to OneDecisiveThe Paradox of ChoiceThinking in BetsNo Rules RulesUnreasonable HospitalityThe Innovator's Solution: Creating and Sustaining Successful GrowthThe Innovator's Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to FailThe Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer ConversationCreativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True InspirationUndaunted CourageI Said This, You Heard That$10

How can AI revolutionize your restaurant’s guest experience? In this episode, Jaime Oikle talks with Alex Sambvani from Slang.ai about how their voice-powered AI technology is helping restaurants improve efficiency and customer service. From handling reservations to answering common questions, Slang.ai’s solution allows restaurants to automate over 50% of their phone calls while enhancing the guest experience with human-like interaction. Discover how this innovative platform is helping operators reduce missed calls, capture more business opportunities, and streamline operations—all without replacing staff.Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.comSponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Jaime Oikle sits down with Angelo Esposito of Wisk.ai to dive deep into the world of cost management for restaurants. From tracking cost of goods sold to automating invoices, they explore practical ways to boost profitability and streamline operations. Angelo shares key insights on inventory management, recipe cost tracking, and how AI can simplify the most tedious tasks. Tune in for valuable lessons on improving your restaurant’s bottom line with smart, tech-driven solutions.Learn more about Wisk.ai at https://www.wisk.ai/ and check out more great tips at runningrestaurants.com.Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurantsSponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

With its innovative menu and commitment to quality, Bun Mee has quickly become a beloved destination for foodies seeking a taste of Vietnam. In this episode, Jaime Oikle sits down with Denise Tran, founder and CEO of San Francisco-based Vietnamese sandwich eatery Bun Mee. Denise recounts her journey of bringing authentic bánh mì into the mainstream, transitioning from a legal career to pursuing her culinary dreams. With four thriving locations and a fifth on the way, she shares the excitement of launching a national franchise while navigating the complexities of the restaurant industry. Join them as they delve into Bun Mee's story, the challenges of growth, and Denise's passion for sharing her heritage through food.Learn more about Bun Mee at https://bunmee.co/ and check out more great tips at runningrestaurants.com.Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jasonSponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Restaurant design is more than just aesthetics. It’s about crafting a memorable and immersive experience. Join Jaime Oikle and //3877 co-founder David Shove-Brown as they explore restaurant design, highlighting how to create unique dining experiences that blend architecture, branding, and hospitality. David talks about the evolution of his firm, the significance of understanding client visions, and the role of thoughtful design in enhancing both guest and staff interactions. From conceptualizing the perfect atmosphere to ensuring functionality and aesthetics, David explores the key elements that make a restaurant truly memorable. Tune in for a deep dive into the art and science of restaurant design!Sponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.comSponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jason

Restaurant owners who are having trouble improving their menu, operations efficiency, and team management are going to want to tune in as we dig into the pain points impacting restaurants. Matthew Wilson, owner of the restaurant and hospitality consulting business Mise En Place. joins for a conversation with Jaime Oikle of Running Restaurants as he shares how he guides owners in developing a highly profitable menu, revamping employee management strategies, and more. Matthew also stresses the importance of an in-depth social audit to ensure your restaurant has a good following and reputation online.Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.comSponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

This episode features Rushi Patel, co-founder of Homebase, as he joins Jaime Oikle to share how the company transformed from a simple scheduling tool into a comprehensive platform for managing hourly workforces. From its humble beginnings, Homebase has expanded to offer communication tools, onboarding, and payroll services. Rushi recounts the journey of transforming Homebase to meet the needs of hourly business owners and their teams, and how the app has adapted to the changing landscape of business management. Tune in to learn how Homebase can revolutionize the way you manage your team and improve your business operations.Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurantsSponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

In this episode, Jaime Oikle interviews Michel Falcon, a restaurant entrepreneur and author, to discuss the power of a people-first culture in business. Falcon shares his unique approach to building successful teams, cultivating engaged employees, and fostering a workplace that thrives on transparency. Discover how prioritizing people can drive top-line results, enhance customer experience, and create lasting success in the competitive restaurant industry. Tune in to learn actionable insights for your business, whether you're in hospitality or beyond.Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jasonSponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

AI-powered dynamic pricing is the key to maximizing your restaurant’s profits—are you ready to embrace it? In this episode, Jaime Oikle dives into the game-changing world of dynamic pricing with industry experts Gordon Paterson and Jose Albis from Dynpricing Technologies Inc. Learn how AI is revolutionizing third-party delivery platforms by adjusting prices during peak and off-peak hours, helping restaurants balance demand, improve profitability, and maintain top-quality service. Whether you're curious about cutting-edge restaurant tech or looking for ways to streamline operations, this conversation will give you fresh insights into the future of dining.Sponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.comSponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.com

Gold, silver & platinum buried in the recognition treasure chest. Roger Beaudoin from Restaurant Rockstars tells you how to dole it out - Check out these tips for your restaurant...Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurantsSponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jason

A restaurant is not simply shaped by the food it serves but also by the efficiency of the team behind it. In this episode, Jaime Oikle sits down with Jordan Boesch, CEO of 7shifts, to discuss what it takes to build a great restaurant culture. He breaks down the most common pain points faced by both owners and employees in the hospitality industry and restaurant management, as well as the right ways to address them. Jaime also stresses the importance of making internal promotions, offering consistent employee feedback, and recognizing your most deserving team members.Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.comSponsor Link: https://www.RestaurantFormula.com

The fun stuff...counting inventory.... In this episode Jaime gets with Roger Beaudoin from Restaurant Rockstars to discuss why it is so important to get inventory right at your restaurant. Managing costs and driving profits all stem from effective inventory...check out these operational tips...Sponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.comSponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

In this episode, Jaime Oikle sits down with Darren Denington, the Founder of Service with Style, to delve into essential restaurant customer service tips that can elevate your dining establishment. With over 27 years of experience, Darren shares his insights on improving customer service through effective training, leadership, and secret shopping strategies. Whether you're a seasoned restaurateur or just starting, this episode offers actionable advice to ensure every guest leaves with a smile and returns for more. Tune in to learn how to create a service experience that truly stands out.Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jasonSponsor Link: https://www.theleasecoach.com

DON'T make this MISTAKE.... In this episode Jaime Oikle of RunningRestaurants.com gets with Roger Beaudoin from Restaurant Rockstars to discuss a huge flaw among many restaurants... Allowing your servers to just be "order takers." There's so much opportunity (and revenue & profits) in the "Land of the Sales Star" so stay tuned to how you can uplevel your staff to sell & serve better and drive those dollars to your restaurant's bottom line. You can immediately take these tactics to your team today and they'll earn more tips tonight!Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

We explore the crucial difference between management and leadership, emphasizing the need for true leadership that empowers employees. In this episode Jaime Oikle of RunningRestaurants.com discusses a common restaurant industry mistake with Roger Beaudoin from Restaurant Rockstars. The pair highlights the importance of clear job descriptions, performance reviews, and setting expectations to foster a culture of accountability and growth. By focusing on leadership over traditional management, restaurant owners can enhance operations, improve employee satisfaction, and deliver exceptional guest experiences. This episode offers valuable insights for creating a thriving and successful restaurant environment. Episode Highlights include: Leadership vs. Management - focusing on the distinction. Empowering Employees - significance of recognizing talent and empowering employees to foster growth within the organization. The Entrepreneurial Mindset - how employees can act as entrepreneurs, taking ownership of their

Thriving in this competitive restaurant landscape can be quite difficult. Imagine an Amazon experience specifically for local marketing vendors! Franchisees can browse a diverse marketplace, selecting the tactics that best target their audience. Join Jaime Oikle and Brett Campbell, the Co-Founder and CMO at Loma, to explore the challenges faced by restaurant marketing teams, particularly in the fast-paced world of franchise operations. Brett discusses the unique needs of local marketing and how the Loma Platform bridges the gap between national brands and individual franchises. It’s time to stop wasting time creating plans, negotiating with vendors, and tracking results. Join Jaime and Brett and see how Loma takes care of everything, from execution to providing valuable data to measure your success.Sponsor Link: https://servicewithstyle.com/runningrestaurants

Are you ready to supercharge your restaurant's marketing game? In this episode, Jamie Oikle dives deep with marketing maestro Jackie Bebenroth, Principal at Muse, to uncover how strategic branding can skyrocket your restaurant's success. Jackie shares her expertise in brand strategy and content marketing, drawing from her vast experience working across the food system and her personal insights as the spouse of a restaurant operator. From perfecting your visual identity to leveraging local influencers, Jackie offers practical tips and innovative strategies that will keep your restaurant buzzing and top of mind. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of social media or seeking cost-effective ways to tell your unique story, this episode is packed with actionable advice to elevate your marketing efforts and boost your bottom line. Tune in to discover how to make your restaurant not just a place to eat, but an unforgettable experience!Sponsor Link: https://www.restaurantreport.com/jason

Are you ready to turn up the heat in your restaurant business? In this episode, Jamie Oikle welcomes back David (The DELO) DeLorenzo, the mastermind behind Bar and Restaurant Insurance. But we’re diving deeper than just insurance today. Delo, who’s a seasoned player in the hospitality industry, shares his unique insights into the current landscape and reveals how he’s leveraging cutting-edge technology to help restaurateurs navigate the often turbulent waters of the business. From innovative solutions to manage slip-and-fall claims to revolutionary ways to streamline operations, Delo’s got the lowdown on how to keep your establishment thriving. Join us as we explore what’s sizzling in Delo’s world, and why staying ahead of the curve can mean the difference between just getting by and truly thriving. Tune in for a conversation that’s sure to light up your business strategy!