Test of Thyme

Our Biggest Mistake

Decoding Customer Service - Secrets to Avoid Awkwardness

In Episode #25 of Test of Thyme, hosts Jamie and Marcus embark on an enlightening conversation about the true essence of customer service. Join them as they unravel the intricacies of providing exceptional experiences to patrons and the importance of training your team to make common-sense decisions. Drawing from their extensive experience in the restaurant industry, Jamie and Marcus share valuable insights, tips, and anecdotes that shed light on the art of delivering outstanding customer service. While acknowledging that service is not always about correcting bad experiences, they delve into the nuances of avoiding awkward encounters with customers, even when the service itself may not be considered "bad." With a wealth of knowledge at their disposal, Jamie and Marcus provide real-life examples that highlight the subtle nuances of customer interactions. Through these stories, they reveal invaluable secrets and strategies to help restaurant owners and their teams navigate through potentially uncomfortable situations, ensuring smooth and memorable dining experiences for all. Test of Thyme Episode #25 serves as a comprehensive guide, filled with actionable advice for those seeking to elevate their customer service game. Whether you're a seasoned restaurateur or a passionate food enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights that can be applied in any hospitality setting. Gain a deeper understanding of what customer service truly entails and unlock the power of creating genuine connections with your guests. Tune in as Jamie and Marcus peel back the curtain on the world of customer service, unraveling the mysteries of awkward encounters and providing you with the tools to avoid them. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach to customer service and take your restaurant's reputation to new heights. Get ready to leave a lasting impression on your guests and watch your business flourish.

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How Do We Pick Menu Items

Unleashing Your Brand Power: Marcus Reveals the Best Advice He Ever Received

Welcome to Episode 22 of the "Test of Thyme" podcast, featuring the dynamic duo Jamie and Marcus. In this captivating episode, Marcus takes center stage as he delves into the transformative power of personal branding alongside your business endeavors. Drawing from his own remarkable journey, Marcus shares the best advice he ever received, which ignited his passion for building a brand long before the social media boom. Flashback to 2004 when a close friend shared a groundbreaking concept: posting a page a day on the internet to establish a brand presence. Little did Marcus know that this pivotal moment would shape his path and fuel his mission to preach the importance of personal branding. Now, Marcus invites you to join him on an inspiring quest to unlock the secrets of creating a powerful personal brand. With social media and digital platforms dominating the landscape, it has never been more vital to craft an authentic brand identity that resonates with your audience and sets you apart from the crowd. Episode 22 of "Test of Thyme" is your gateway to a world of practical insights, proven strategies, and captivating stories that will empower you to build a brand that stands the test of time. Jamie and Marcus are thrilled to be your guides on this transformative journey, so tune in and discover the art of personal branding like never before. Get ready to embark on a Test of Thyme unlike any other.

Work-Life Balance: Unlocking the Key to Successful Family Time

Welcome to Episode 21 of the Test of Thyme Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the topic of loving your restaurant and share a heartfelt family vacation dilemma. We explore the significance of finding time for family and the value of cherishing precious moments together. Join us for practical tips, personal stories, and inspiring insights as we navigate the delicate balance between work and family life. Tune in to Episode 21 of the Test of Thyme Podcast for an engaging discussion on creating harmony and making the most of family time.

Family First: How Restaurant Owners Prioritize What Truly Matters

Welcome to Episode 20 of "Test of Thyme" podcast! In this episode, your hosts Jamie and Marcus dive deep into the important topic of finding the elusive balance between work and family. Starting off in the restaurant industry, Jamie and Marcus experienced the challenges of juggling their professional and personal lives. However, as they progressed in their careers, they discovered valuable insights and strategies that helped them prioritize family events and create a more harmonious work-life integration. Join us as Jamie and Marcus open up about their own journeys and share their secrets on how they managed to maintain a thriving restaurant business even when they couldn't be physically present. Discover the tips and tricks that have stood the test of time and allowed them to find success both at work and within their families. If you're looking for inspiration, practical advice, and real-life stories on achieving work-life balance, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and be a part of this engaging conversation on "Test of Thyme"!

Friendships vs. Bribes: The Battle for Integrity in the Restaurant World

In episode 19 of "Test of Thyme," we delve into the captivating world of the restaurant industry and explore the true value of relationships. Join us as we uncover the importance of building genuine friendships and trust with our producers, highlighting the stark contrast to supporting companies that rely on monetary incentives to gain business.
In this eye-opening episode, we shed light on the unethical practices employed by certain big companies that resort to bribery in order to secure deals with restaurants. We delve into the impact of these actions on the integrity of the industry, as well as the negative consequences they have on the overall dining experience.
 
Through insightful interviews with restaurant owners, chefs, and industry experts, we explore the immense value that lies in fostering genuine connections. Discover how building strong relationships with local producers and suppliers not only ensures the highest quality ingredients but also strengthens the bond between the restaurant and its community.
 
We invite you to join us on this thought-provoking journey as we unveil the hidden stories behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Gain a deeper understanding of the power of authentic relationships, and learn how supporting restaurants that prioritize ethical practices and community engagement can make a positive impact on the dining landscape.
 
Tune in to episode 19 of "Test of Thyme" and uncover the secrets, challenges, and triumphs that shape the vibrant world of restaurants and the significance of genuine relationships within it. Don't miss this captivating exploration of the real value of relationships in the restaurant industry.