Winery | KRG Hospitality

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February 4, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Independent Operators are Making Changes

Despite Challenges, Independent Operators are Making Changes for the Better

by David Klemt

Independent Restaurant Coalition survey results show our industry is still struggling but some operators are making positive changes.

The hospitality industry absolutely needs and deserves help. The Restaurant Revitalization Fund absolutely needs replenishing.

However, hospitality continues to prove its resiliency, adaptability, and innovation.

It must be said, though, that it’s exhausting for owners, operators, and workers to have to constantly be resilient. Sometimes, the industry needs help. It’s past time for help to come.

But, I digress. Back to the IRC and their recently released survey results.

Still Overwhelmed

The IRC surveyed close to 1,200 respondents who are part of the restaurant and bar community. Survey participants represented all 50 states in the US.

Some respondents received RRF grants, some did not. Of course, receiving a grant wasn’t a silver bullet for surviving the pandemic.

However, the grants certainly helped:

Nineteen percent of grant recipients took out personal loans since February 2020. In comparison, that number more than doubles to 41 percent for those who didn’t receive grants.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, five percent of grant recipients took on additional investors. Again, that number more than doubles for operators who received no RRF grants. Eleven percent took on more investors to survive.
Due to the omicron variant of Covid-19, grant recipients had to reduce staff by 21 percent on average. Their counterparts had to decrease staff, on average, by 30 percent.
When it comes to selling off a personal asset to help their business survive the pandemic, ten percent of grant recipients did so. For those who didn’t receive an RRF grant, that number increases more than two-and-a-half times to 26 percent.

The challenges—an inadequate word, truly—have led to industry-wide changes. Per the IRC’s survey:

Hiring challenges have impacted 91 percent of independent restaurants and bars.
Menu prices were hiked up by 89 percent of independent businesses.
Nearly half—42 percent—reported to the IRC that they had pivoted to alternate business models after ceasing indoor and outdoor service.
Six percent of independent restaurants and bars pivoted to offering outdoor dining only.

Progress Being Made

Operators have been facing hiring challenges for several months now. In response, some operators offer various incentives.

As examples: meals for honoring scheduled interviews; cash for showing up to interviews; large cash bonuses for remaining in position for 90 or more days.

However, none of the above really address longstanding, widespread issues hospitality workers have given as reasons for quitting jobs (and the industry entirely).

To name just two, livable wages and benefits. Despite the challenges operators are facing, they have made positive changes. We’re not talking a small percentage, either.

Per the IRC, independent businesses reported the following changes:

84 percent of restaurants increased wages.
37 percent of restaurants, bars and other independent hospitality businesses added paid sick leave to the benefits they provide.
21 percent of employers have added paid vacation to their benefits.

These changes (and others) are a promising start, showing that operators are listening to workers. Bringing traffic and revenue back to pre-pandemic levels—and beyond—is a great goal. But how will the industry get there?

One answer is for operators to listen to the hospitality professionals they rely on for their businesses to thrive. Listening, and then acting in meaningful ways.

Image: Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash

February 2, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

5 Books to Read this Month: February ’22

5 Books to Read this Month: February ’22

by David Klemt

This month’s fun and informative book selections will help you develop next-level culinary, beverage and leadership skills throughout 2022.

To review January’s book recommendations, click here.

Let’s jump in!

Greenlights

Published originally in 2020, Matthew McConaughey’s Greenlights is already experiencing a resurgence. McConaughey has been writing in diaries for decades and sat down with them to write this memoir that shares lessons he’s learned, stories about what he has experienced over the course of more than 40 years, and more. In his own words, Greenlights addresses how to be fair, have less stress, have fun, hurt people less, get hurt less, be a good person, have meaning in life, and how to be more yourself.

“It’s also a guide to catching more greenlights—and to realizing that the yellows and reds eventually turn green too.”

Setting the Table

Danny Meyer’s modern classic Setting the Table was published nearly 15 years ago. It’s an award-winning masterpiece and considered by some to be the best restaurant business book ever written. On episode 64 of the Bar Hacks podcast, CEO and Master Blender Neil grosscup of Tanteo Tequila mentions this book. So, I decided it was time to revisit Setting the Table and encourage those who haven’t yet to read it.

The New Craft of the Cocktail: Everything You Need to Know to Think Like a Master Mixologist

Dale DeGroff, for those who don’t know, is credited with kicking off the modern cocktail craze. He’s a legend, an icon, and an ambassador for bartenders and the hospitality industry. Released toward the end of last year, The New Craft of the Cocktail is an update of DeGroff’s 2002 book The Craft of the Cocktail. Inside are new photographs, updates to the history of the cocktail, and 100 new drink recipes.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Drink Recipe Book

Look, it has been an overwhelming two years. And we’re still in that overwhelming situation. That is to say, we can all use a smile wherever we can get it. That goes for drink menus, too. Enter, The Unofficial Disney Parks Drink Recipe Book. It may be unofficial but the recipes are fantastic, offering whimsy, nostalgia, and wow factor. There are over 100 recipes in this best-selling book, including cocktails and zero-proof drinks.

The Velocity Mindset

If you want to become a better leader, you need to change your mindset. That may sound drastic but developing simple habits like visualizing a specific outcome can improve your leadership skills. The Velocity Mindset shares Ron Karr’s “innovative and practical strategies to differentiate yourself from the competition, increase your profits, and get to the next level of success, faster.”

Image: Mikołaj on Unsplash

Stay Weird neon sign with purple background

February 1, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Stand Out with Weird Holidays: Feb. ’22

Stand Out with Weird Holidays: February ’22

by David Klemt

Want to stand out from from other restaurants and bars in your area? Then commit to keeping it weird.

Several “holidays” are set against every date on the calendar, and February is no exception. These holidays range from mainstream to food-centric to weird.

Pay attention to the latter to raise eyebrows, carve out a niche for your restaurant or bar, and attract more guests. Why do what everyone else is already doing?

Of course, you shouldn’t try to celebrate every holiday, weird or otherwise. And this month’s list in no way includes every odd holiday.

Focus on the days that are authentic to your brand; resonate with your guests; and help you grab attention on social media.

For last month’s list, click here.

February 1: Work Naked Day

Actually, ignore this holiday. But wow, February is coming out swinging.

February 2: Play Your Ukulele Day

Does anyone on your staff play the ukulele? What about your guests? If you think you can handle it, encourage them to bring their ukuleles and throw down at your restaurant or bar. Live entertainment has never sounded so tropical.

February 7: E-Day

This holiday, contrary to what you may be thinking, isn’t about celebrating electronics, email, or vaping. Rather, E-Day is dedicated to honoring the mathematical constant e. Your Pi Day fans will likely appreciate you celebrating E-Day, which you can do by offering F&B items that begin with the letter “E.”

February 8: Laughy and Get Rich Day

If only it were that easy, eh? This holiday is all about having fun, having some laughs, and appreciating simple pleasures. If any holiday is about the pursuit of happiness and enriching our lives with fun and laughter, this is it.

February 15: National Gumdrop Day

With all the candies out there, do people still know about gumdrops? They can be traced back to the 17th century and were first written about in the 1850s. Talk about a throwback! If you can get your hands on some, they make great garnishes for the right cocktails.

February 18: National Crab Stuffed Flounder Day

Do you have flounder? Do you have crab? And do you have a kitchen staff that can stuff the latter into the former? Then you have everything you need to celebrate but this simple, seafood-focused holiday.

February 22: National Cook a Sweet Potato Day

Of course, if you’re operating a restaurant—or a bar with a kitchen—you can cook more than one sweet potato. Rich in nutrition and flavor, sweet potatoes can be the star or an incredible co-star in a wide range of dishes. Come up with a sweet potato-focused holiday menu and promote it on social media.

February 24: National Toast Day

This holiday is great for featuring breakfast all day, breakfast for dinner, toasted sandwiches… You can also plan and execute an event during which you host a group toast with a specific drink. Cheers!

February 26: National No Brainer Day

Knowing your guests and community will really help you celebrate this holiday. If there’s a food or beverage item or a local custom or event you know your guests love, this is the day to create a promotion around it.

February 28: National Floral Design Day

It’s interesting that this holiday takes place two weeks after Valentine’s Day, a holiday that has traditionally involved giving or receiving flowers. Intended to celebrate the art of floral design, you can celebrate this holiday with edible flower garnishes. Such garnishes just happen to photograph very well for social media, so your guests can help promote your venue.

Image: Dan Parlante on Unsplash

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January 28, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Be Different this Valentine’s Day

Be Different this Valentine’s Day

by David Klemt

When people are considering spending time and money on a holiday two years into a pandemic, they’re seeking unique experiences.

This is particularly true of holidays that traditionally involve an evening out at a restaurant or bar.

Sure, the tried and true will still probably work. After all, the pandemic has driven comfort and comfort foods to perform well.

However, a significant percentage of guests want to experience something new when they leave their homes. Below you’ll find two Valentine’s Day drink recipes and an example of entertaining programming.

When it comes to beverage programming, most people expect bubbles or rosé wines. And of course pink wines, Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and other sparkling wines should be on hand.

But offering a Valentine’s Day cocktail that isn’t a French 75 can help your holiday menu stand out. One recipe leverages a spirit that may knock vodka off its throne this year. The other showcases a spirt that various industry experts have been hoping claim the number one spot for years.

Kiss from a Rosa

Tequila, particularly premium and ultra-premium expressions, is crushing it as a category. This Valentine’s Day cocktail is made with Código 1530 Rosa, an ultra-premium blanco tequila.

Rested for one month in uncharred French white oak barrels formerly filled with Napa Valley Cab, this unique tequila is characterized by a rosé hue.

1.5 oz. Código 1530 Rosa tequila
0.5 oz. Cointreau
0.5 oz. Raspberry syrup
0.5 oz. Lemon juice
1 Egg white
Pink sugar or raspberries to garnish

Build it: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker without ice. Shake hard for roughly 30 seconds, until the ingredients form a foam. Add ice to the shaker and shake until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with pink sugar or raspberries on a cocktail pick.

Bacardí Old Cuban

I’ve lost track of the number of people who have predicted (hoped is probably more accurate) that rum will “finally have its year.” With tequila projected to potentially crush vodka and Irish whiskey performing so well, it’s unlikely rum will dominate 2022.

However, the category may still experience even more growth this year. Reserva Ocho is based on the Bacardí family’s reserve rum.

The eight-year-old premium rum’s dried fruit, spice, and vanilla notes play well with Prosecco. This cocktail also features a pairing that many guests wouldn’t expect to work: rum and Prosecco.

2 oz. Bacardí Reserva Ocho Rum
2.5 oz. Martini & Rossi Prosecco
4 Mint leaves
1 oz. Simple syrup
1 oz. Lime juice
2 dashes of Bitters

Build it: Combine all the ingredients except Prosecco in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously, then double-strain into a coupe. Top with Prosecco and garnish with a mint leaf float.

Both cocktails above can easily justify premium pricing.

Dueling Axes Las Vegas Valentine’s Day

Featured on episode 41 of Bar Hacks, Dueling Axes offers an upscale axe-throwing experience. Of course, being upscale doesn’t mean the venue is stuffy.

Rather, Dueling Axes emphasizes fun and unique experiences. Their Valentine’s Day programming is an example of balancing the familiar with the unexpected.

From February 13 through February 15, couples will be treated to two free glasses of Champagne. Groups of four or more will receive a bottle of Champagne for free.

On February 13, however, Dueling Axes is offering an attention-grabbing promotion.

Targeting Galentine’s Day guests, the venue is encouraging people to bring in photos of their exes. The staff will hang the picture on the bullseye to motivate throwers to ace their tosses.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dueling Axes – Las Vegas (@duelingaxeslv)

A bit aggressive? Sure. A tad dark? Yep. Memorable? Absolutely.

The recipes and programming above illustrate that simple deviations from the expected can help your venue stand out. This Valentine’s Day, strike a balance between the expected and unique.

Image: Tengyart on Unsplash

United States Capitol Building beneath cloudy skies

January 25, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

NRA Sends Survey Results to Congress

NRA Sends Economic Survey Results to Congress

by David Klemt

On the heels of the IRC’s National Day of Action to Save Restaurants, the National Restaurant Association has sent a letter to Congress.

Sent by Sean Kennedy, executive vice president of the NRA, the letter urges Congress to finally replenish the RRF.

“After two years of closures, COVID-19 variants, worker shortages, and inflationary pressure,” reads the letter, in part, “a dangerous number of restaurants are at the end of the line.”

A Critical Moment

As I’ve written several times (exhaustively, some would say), the bill meant to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund was first introduced in June 2021. We’re now a week away from February 2022.

In August of last year, a unanimous consent vote to provide $43 billion in emergency funding to the industry was shot down by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY). Build Back Better passed the House in November 2021. However, it didn’t include the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act.

As expressed by Sean Kennedy in an email sent yesterday, we’re at a critical juncture. Kennedy points to two dates when making his point: February 18 and March 1.

All government spending expires on the former date, and President Joe Biden delivers his State of the Union Address on the latter date. Kennedy suggests that the only large-scale spending bill of 2022 will be passed between those dates.

So, it’s probable that we have mere weeks to pressure Congress into replenishing the RRF.

The Numbers

Kennedy’s letter to Congress is addressed to Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), and Mitch McConnell (R-KY).

Citing the results of the NRA’s largest-ever economic survey, Kennedy urges action on the RRF from Congress. The NRA’s executive vice president estimates that replenishing the RRF will save over 1.6 million restaurant jobs.

Below are the survey results included in Kennedy’s letter to Congress:

88 percent of restaurants saw decline in customer demand for indoor on-premises dining due to the omicron variant.
76 percent of operators report that business conditions are worse now than they were just three months prior.
74 percent of operators say their restaurant is less profitable now than it was prior to the pandemic.
Almost 50 percent of restaurant operators who didn’t receive RRF grants feel it’s unlikely that they’ll stay in business beyond the pandemic without a grant.
94 percent of restaurant operators who applied for an RRF grant but did not receive funding said a future grant would enable them to retain or hire back employees.
96 percent of recipients said the RRF grant made it more likely that they would be able to remain in business.
92 percent of recipients said the RRF grant they received helped them pay expenses or debt that had accumulated since the beginning of the pandemic.
The initial round of grants, per the NRA, likely saved more than 900,000 restaurant jobs.

Now is not the time to relent—we need to keep up the pressure. If Kennedy and the NRA are correct, we have only weeks to receive the help our industry needs and deserves.

Image: Harold Mendoza on Unsplash

January 18, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

US Operators, Take Action Today

US Operators, Take Action Today

by David Klemt

Today is the day to let Congress know the clock has run out on our patience for them act on replenishing the RRF.

In all honesty, the industry’s tolerance for governmental inaction on the RRF ran out last year. Right around the time, I’d say, the RRF application portal closed, leaving almost 200,000 applicants without crucial grants. As a reminder, the portal closed after just 21 days of launching.

Today is the National Day of Action to Save Restaurants. The Independent Restaurant Coalition is leading the charge for this campaign.

To participate, follow the IRC on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Additionally, click here to sign up for their emails. Spread the word and encourage staff, guests, your family members, and friends to take part as well.

Below you’ll find more details for taking action to #SaveRestaurants and #SaveBars today and moving forward.

Industry Advocacy

The IRC has been fighting and advocating for the industry since the start of the pandemic. Today, they’re asking owners, operators, workers in all segments of the industry, communities, and guests to throw their support behind this crucial fight.

So, today is the day to inundate your representatives with phone calls. Dial this number to reach the Capitol switchboard: 202-224-3121. The IRC provides state-specific fact sheets, which can be found here.

For an example of what you’ll find on a state’s fact sheet, here are some details for Nevada:

The leisure and hospitality industry accounts for 87.6 percent of all jobs lost in the state.
In Nevada, the industry is worth $9.9 billion, with 5,980 restaurants and bars throughout the state.

Those are just two pertinent facts about the industry in Nevada.

Along with phone calls, people should contact their representatives via email. Follow this link to email Congress and tell them to replenish the RRF.

Send a Message

Of course, social media will also play an important part in today’s campaign. Flooding Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other channels with #SaveRestaurants, #SaveBars, and #ReplenishRRF should get Congress’ attention in a very public, very newsworthy way.

Click here to access the IRC’s social media and website toolkit.

It’s time to let Congress know we’re doing waiting for action. We’re done with the lip service, platitudes, and empty words of support. And we’re done with the broken promises, disarray, and inaction.

Personally, I plan on once again letting my state representatives know that I’m watching. Those who don’t do their jobs and help replenish the RRF won’t be receiving my vote. I can’t support those who won’t support us. Whether you want to send that message is up to you.

Today, however, make your voice heard and send at least this message: We demand Congress acts now.

Image: Rohan G on Unsplash

January 11, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Top 10 Bar Hacks Bonus Episodes: Goals

Top 10 Bar Hacks Bonus Episodes for Setting and Achieving Goals

by David Klemt

We’ve rounded up the ten best bonus episodes of Bar Hacks that feature KRG Hospitality president Doug Radkey offering goal-setting guidance.

Obviously, we all want to succeed. However, it’s not always obvious where we should start. This has been proven all the more true the past two years.

Doug has a way of cutting a path through the overwhelming noise and distractions operators face each day. The Bar Hacks bonus episodes below can help listeners take a deep breath, reset, and take the necessary steps to identify, measure, and achieve their 2022 goals.

Bonus #1: Strategic Clarity

Doug explains strategic clarity as the understanding of who we are, what we’re working toward, and how we’re going to get where we want to go. Click here to listen.

Bonus #3: Simplification

In this episode, Doug asks listeners a simple question: “Is your vision for your restaurant or bar’s systems complex or simplified?”

Bonus #4: Acceptance

We can’t really make achievable goals if we don’t understand the current situation we’re facing. In this bonus episode, Doug explains why it’s important to be able to accept change and differences.

Bonus #6: Decision Making

We make thousands of decisions every day, from the simple to the complex and everything in between. Doug shares his insights into clearly and confidently making decisions for your business. Click here to learn more.

Bonus #7: Innovative Leadership

What is innovative leadership? It’s confidence in your abilities and your team, knowing when to get out of the way, and the culmination of a few other key concepts. To listen, click here.

Bonus #9: Flexibility

For this bonus episode, Doug explains why success in this era of hospitality requires owning the entire guest journey, frictionless omni-channel experiences, and other elements of a flexible approach to business.

Bonus #12: Self Care

Doug shares his thoughts on one of the most crucial elements of operating a business in the hospitality industry. Hint: He’s not talking about menus, marketing or making money in this episode.

Bonus #13: Confidence

Do you think you have a growth-based mindset or a fixed mindset? Doug discusses confidence and the impact it has on your ability to lead effectively in Bar Hacks Bonus #13.

Bonus #14: Self Learning

Knowing that you don’t know it all opens up your world and makes you a better leader. Doug explains how seeking out knowledge, experiences and opportunities to learn makes you a better operator, keeps you sharp, helps you better relate to and mentor others, and improves your business in every way. Listen now!

Bonus #17: The Seven Cs

Doug explains each of the Seven Cs and how they’ll help you build a winning team. Without the right people on staff, you don’t have much of a chance to achieve your goals. Click here to listen to this important episode.

To listen to the first five bonus episodes in this list in one convenient episode, please click here for today’s Bar Hacks podcast episode. Cheers!

Image: Mikołaj on Unsplash

"Wake up, kick ass, repeat" neon sign on wall

January 7, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

How to Achieve Your Goals in 2022

How to Achieve Your Goals in 2022

by Jennifer Radkey

The start of a new year for many is symbolic: Fresh year, fresh start.

With the best of intentions, millions of people worldwide create resolutions and set goals for both personal and professional growth and achievement. These goals are created with full enthusiasm and determination and then….the majority of them never come to fruition.

Studies have shown that approximately 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions fail. So what happens? And how can we push forward to achieve our goals instead of letting them slip away?

The majority of us know how to set clearly defined goals. It is something we learned in school, or have read countless articles about. It seems as if it is human nature to want to improve, to do better and be better.

In the hospitality industry, we ask our team members to set goals weekly, if not daily. Goals typically include improving guest retention, increasing sales, improving guest experience, etc.

But once these goals are set, what systems are in place to help your team achieve them? And are you leading by example?

Goal Setting

There are many techniques to goal setting. George Doran, Arthur Miller, and James Cunningham developed the very popular SMART goal tool to assist in developing clearly defined, task-oriented goals. They state that goals should be Specific, Measurable, Assignable, Realistic, and Time-specific (SMART).

Rhonda Byrne’s book, The Secret, discusses envisioning your goals and life desires to attract them to you. But goal achievement is more than just setting a clear goal, or dreaming about what it would be like to achieve that goal. Those are the starting points.

Goal achievement is a process. It can be nitty and gritty and tough. There is typically no easy way. However, there are strategies we can use to help us achieve them, and the result will almost always be worth the extra effort.

Why We Fail

There are countless reasons why goals or resolutions fail, but the reasons mostly fall under two categories: You either lose your willpower or your waypower.

The concepts of willpower and waypower in relation to goal achievement is introduced in Rick Snyder’s Hope Theory, explained is his book The Psychology of Hope: You Can Get There From Here.

Willpower is the desire to achieve your goal; it’s the fire that pushes us to keep going after what we want. Waypower is the map for how we will get to our end goal; it’s the careful plan we have in place to ensure we overcome any obstacles that get in our way.

When we lack willpower our goal seems unachievable, and therefore we give up. When we lack waypower, as badly as we may want to achieve our goal, we are lost with no clear idea of how to get there.

How to Succeed

Finding Your Willpower

If you have lost your willpower, there are several ways to reignite your desire to achieve your goal.

The first is to have constant reminders of your goal. Have it written somewhere where you will have access to it several times a day. Set reminders on your phone, put sticky notes around your office or house, create a vision board representing your goal as your screensaver or on a wall in your home or office.

Remind yourself of why you set the goal in the first place and how it will make your life better.

Many of us lose our willpower when faced with obstacles. Instead of being deflated by obstacles, look at them as challenges to be defeated. Use obstacles as fuel for your fire rather than water to dampen it.

When faced with obstacles it is also helpful to remind yourself of goals that you have achieved in the past and the obstacles you had to overcome to get there. Remembering this time will allow you to acknowledge that you ARE capable and therefore will keep your willpower intact.

Finding your Waypower

Life is busy, and when you are being pulled in many directions at the same time it can be easy to lose your way towards achieving your goals. To ensure that you stay on the path towards goal completion, there are several actions you can take.

Try breaking long-range goals into smaller steps. Start with the first step, and move on to the next, checking off and celebrating each step as you go.

Before you even begin your journey towards goal completion, map out different routes you may need to get there. Knowing these routes beforehand will make it easier to stay focused along the way.

Lastly, know when to ask for help—and be willing to accept it. If you get lost on your way to your goal, perhaps you need some advice from someone who has already achieved that goal.

WOOP

One of my favorite goal achievement strategies is WOOP, created by Gabriele Oettingen. This acronym stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan.

WOOP is a straightforward and effective tool to use when setting goals, and has been practiced by everyone from elementary school students to CEOs of major corporations. Once practiced, WOOP can take less than five minutes of your time while providing great clarity.

The first step is to state your wish or goal clearly. Next, envision the outcome of achieving your goal. Take a couple minutes to really picture what it will look and feel like to achieve your goal.

You are then going to contrast that by thinking of what obstacles might block you from achieving your goal. It is important to note that these obstacles are internal not external.

We rarely have control over external obstacles but do have control over internal ones. What is it about you that will stop you from reaching your goal? Is it low self-esteem, laziness, doubt? Are you distracted easily?

Lastly, you are going to plan what to do when met with an obstacle by using “if/then” phrasing. For example, “If I am feeling lazy and want to have a Netflix marathon instead of working on my goal, then I will get off the couch, do ten jumping jacks, grab a drink of water, and start working on my goal.”

If you are interested in trying out the WOOP tool for goal setting/achievement you can visit www.woopmylife.org.

Own It

Goal setting and resolutions should not be a forced activity you do every new year, or birthday, or every Monday morning to start your week. Goal setting and achievement should be a constant, flowing activity that reaches into all parts of your life.

Through the use of strategies and consistent review, reassessment, and awareness, goals don’t need to be lost or given up on, unless that particular goal no longer serves a purpose to you.

Own your goals and take pride in your achievements. In the end, you will always be your number one advocate for your own growth.

So go get it! Cheers to professional and personal well-being!

Image: Justin Veenema on Unsplash

January 5, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

5 Books to Read this Month: January ’22

5 Books to Read this Month: January ’22

by David Klemt

This month’s fun and informative book selections will help you develop next-level culinary, beverage and leadership skills as we kick off 2022.

To review December 2021’s book recommendations, click here.

Let’s jump in!

Try Dry: The Official Guide to a Month Off Booze

For those who want to learn more about Dry January, Try Dry is an insightful resource. Of course, this book is also informative beyond the first month of the year. As living alcohol-free movement becomes more mainstream, it’s important for operators to understand the movement. Whether permanent or temporary, there are myriad reasons some guests decide against drinking alcohol.

Of Peats and Putts: A Whisky and Golf Tour of Scotland

During the pandemic, interest in golf skyrocketed. In part, this has led to increased interest in golf simulators, driving ranges, and nine-hole rounds of golf rather than full, 18-hole outings. Of Peats and Putts tells the story of golf and whisky in Scotland. A compelling read for operators looking to bring golf into their businesses.

The Way of the Cocktail: Japanese Traditions, Techniques, and Recipes

Not even two months on the market and already causing quite the buzz! The Way of the Cocktail comes from Julia Momosé, one of the minds behind Chicago cocktail destination Kumiko. From classics to new riffs, the recipes in this book are based on 24 micro-seasons.

Bourbon [Boxed Book & Ephemera Set]: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey

Clay Risen is considered an authority on spirits. In particular, he’s lauded as an expert on whiskey. Bourbon lovers will appreciate the Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey box set for what it is: a definitive history of America’s native spirit. Along with profiles of Kentucky distillers, Risen has included interviews and photographs to tell the story of bourbon.

Amaro: The Spirited World of Bittersweet, Herbal Liqueurs, with Cocktails, Recipes, and Formulas

There are many reasons to love amaro. Bitter and bittersweet notes, complex flavor profiles, and their utility when it comes to crafting low-ABV cocktails are among those reasons. Amaro by Brad Thomas Parsons explores the rich history of amaro and includes over 100 recipes.

Image: Mikołaj on Unsplash

January 4, 2022by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Stand Out with Weird Holidays: January ’22

Stand Out with Weird Holidays: January ’22

by David Klemt

Want to stand out from from other restaurants and bars in your area? Then commit to keeping it weird.

Several “holidays” are set against every date on the calendar, and January is no exception. These holidays range from mainstream to food-centric to weird.

Pay attention to the latter to raise eyebrows, carve out a niche for your restaurant or bar, and attract more guests. Why do what everyone else is already doing?

Of course, you shouldn’t try to celebrate every holiday, weird or otherwise. And this month’s list in no way includes every odd holiday.

Focus on the days that are authentic to your brand; resonate with your guests; and help you grab attention on social media.

For last month’s list, click here.

January 5: National Bird Day

The Jungle Bird. Grey Goose. Famous Grouse. Redbreast. Eagle Rare. Wild Turkey. Kentucky Owl. Chicken wings. Duck fat. Use this holiday to feature your bird-themed cocktails, spirits, beers, and foods.

January 7: National Tempura Day

When it comes to 2022 trend predictions, comfort food is right at the top of many experts’ lists. And when it comes to comfort foods, battering and frying is always a winner. If you can batter and fry it, put it on your menu and promote it.

January 11: National Milk Day

This is the day to perfect and promote your milk cocktails. The Coquito, Bourbon Milk Punch, the Grasshopper, the Mudslide… National Milk Day is easy and fun to celebrate.

January 14: National Dress Up Your Pet Day

Does your business permit guests to bring their dogs or other pets to tag along when they visit? Encourage them to dress up their pets, and make sure you document the results on your venue’s social media channels.

January 19: National Popcorn Day

Is popcorn weird? No, of course not. Is tricking out your popcorn with seasonings weird? That depends on how creative you and your back of house can be. Think outside the popcorn tub, craft some intriguing popcorn flavors, and get your guests talking on social media.

January 20: National Get to Know Your Customers Day

Yep, I’m gonna encourage your strongly to collect the data of every guest who visits and spends money at your business. This would be a great holiday to launch or heavily promote your loyalty program.

January 24: National Beer Can Appreciation Day

Creative beer can design goes hand in hand with craft beer brewing. A lot of thought goes into beer can design and particularly eye-catching labels deserve more than a passing glance. Feature the most creative and attention-grabbing beers on your menu on National Beer Can Appreciation Day. And yes, you should definitely feature them on your social media channels.

January 29: National Corn Chip Day

Ah, the corn chip, a perfect vessel for hearty dips. They’re also ideal for walking tacos, a.k.a. tacos-in-a-bag. If you have corn chips and taco fixin’s, you can offer your guests walking tacos on National Corn Chip Day.

January 31: National Backward Day

There are several ways you can celebrate this day with your guests and staff. One simple but fun way to do so is to encourage your guests to dine in backwards order: dessert first, entrée, and then appetizer. Of course, you could print a specialty menu backwards but that runs the risk of annoying your guests. But still…interesting idea.

Image: Dan Parlante on Unsplash