-Join the free 14 day restaurant automation challenge https://www.jlittrell.com/free

-Free training and strategies for independent restaurant owners: https://workshop.jlittrell

-Free community of hospitality pros at https://lab.jlittrell.com

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Hey there, future hospitality superstar! If you’ve ever wondered why some restaurants always have a line out the door while others only have tumbleweeds rolling by, you’re in the right place. Drawing insights from the Hospitality Strategy Lab Podcast (live interview with Barbara Castiglia from Modern Restaurant Management), I’m here to break down what’s really happening in the world of restaurants and how YOU can get ahead—without needing to be a business genius!

Pull up a (virtual) chair, and let’s dive in.

1. Labor and Costs: The Big Challenges

Barbara Castiglia, an industry expert, says labor is the “main thing keeping restaurant owners up at night.” Think about it: People want fair pay, tips, and a fun place to work. And let’s not forget—food costs are rising like a dough in the oven! Meat, coffee, and everything else are getting pricier.

Pro Tip: Build strong relationships with your suppliers and lock in contracts for your ingredients. This helps keep prices steady and avoids unexpected menu price hikes.

2. The Power of Value and Experience

What makes YOU choose one burger joint over another? Barbara says today’s guests want an experience AND value. It’s not just about eating—it’s about feeling good when you do.

Look at chains like Applebee’s and Chili’s. They’re bouncing back by offering deals like “2 for $25.” People love getting the most bang for their buck—especially these days!

Pro Tip: Pair awesome service with affordable prices. Even if you’re not fancy, you can be someone’s favorite by providing memorable experiences.

3. Simple Menus Win (Seriously!)

Are you overwhelmed by restaurants with huge, endless menus? You’re not alone—and neither are your customers. Barbara highlights restaurants that focus on doing one thing really well—like burritos—and why they’re crushing it.

The more focused your menu, the easier it is to train staff, manage food costs, and create loyal fans. Even classic diners are shrinking their menus!

SEO Keywords: “restaurant menu strategy,” “building customer loyalty,” “streamlined menu benefits”

Pro Tip: Don’t try to please everyone. Be awesome at what you do best, and your people (aka your “tribe”) will find you!

4. Marketing: Keep It Real, Keep It Simple

If you only have ONE hour a week to market your restaurant, what should you do? Barbara suggests: video, video, video! Take pictures of your food, your place, and—most importantly—your people. Show who you are. Post quick updates to Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. No fancy agency needed—your cell phone works!

SEO Keywords: “restaurant video marketing,” “best social media for restaurants,” “how to promote your restaurant online”

Pro Tip: Focus on the three Ps—People, Place, Product. Customers want a peek behind the scenes. 7 minutes a day is plenty to share your story and build excitement!

5. Online Reputation Is Everything

Online reviews can make or break your business. Barbara explains how fake reviews and online scams are a real problem. Respond politely to all reviews—even the weird ones! Show you care. Being human is your secret weapon.

SEO Keywords: “restaurant reputation management,” “how to respond to reviews,” “protect your business online”

Pro Tip: Ask happy guests to leave honest reviews, but NEVER buy fake ones. Your real fans are your best marketers.

6. Technology: AI Is Here to Help

Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t just for robots! Restaurants are using it to manage marketing, organize things, and save money—especially behind the scenes. But Barbara says: Use AI for organization, not for creativity. Stay authentic so customers feel a real connection.

SEO Keywords: “AI for restaurants,” “restaurant technology trends 2026,” “automate restaurant marketing”

Pro Tip: Let AI tackle boring stuff, so you can focus on the fun: connecting with guests!

7. Find and Serve Your Tribe

Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Whether you’re a burrito bar or a fine dining spot, your unique personality attracts the right customers. Barbara says: Know your mission, share your story, and build loyalty in your local community. People will travel for great food and fun—even if it’s not fancy!

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Dream Big

Whether you’re just opening your first restaurant or looking for ways to grow, remember that hospitality is about caring and building relationships. Take Barbara’s advice: Focus on what YOU do best, market simply, use tech to save time, and never lose your authentic flavor.

Hungry for more? Check out ModernRestaurantManagement.com for expert tips and stories. And don’t forget to tune in to the Hospitality Strategy Lab Podcast for the latest strategies to help you succeed—no matter your experience level.

Ready to make your restaurant or bar the next big thing? Start with these simple steps—and pour yourself a glass of inspiration! 🍷

00:00 Restaurants Balancing Experience and Technology

05:35 "Streamlined Menus and Online Presence"

06:40 "Focused Menus Build Loyalty"

13:28 "Authenticity Builds Loyal Communities"

16:13 "Human Touch in Hospitality"

20:04 "Fake Review Fraud Frustration"

22:57 "Hospitality, Reviews, and Customer Care"

24:09 Resilience in Tough Business Times

27:47 Industry Trends and Insights 2025

31:01 Hospitality Strategy Lab Overview