Episode #43: Stella Dennig, Co-Owner/GM of Daytrip
Description
In this episode of the Pre-Shift podcast, host DJ dives deep into the intricacies of managing successful restaurant teams with Stella Denig, co-owner and GM of Daytrip Restaurant in Oakland, California. Stella shares insights on building a restaurant prioritizing pay equity, equitable compensation, and a strong internal culture. She discusses their unique business model, the challenges of introducing equitable systems, and the importance of legislative change in the industry. Stella also touches on the role of collective thinking in their operations and the exciting personal and professional changes coming up for her and Daytrip. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to learn about innovative practices in the hospitality industry.
00:00 Introduction to the Pre-Shift Podcast
00:12 Meet Stella Denig from Daytrip Restaurant
01:02 The Journey to Opening Daytrip
02:20 Innovative Business Model and Pay Equity
04:14 Service Charge and Employee Compensation
09:51 Open Pay and Hiring Practices
14:08 Collective Thinking and Team Culture
25:19 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
29:19 Exciting Future Plans for Daytrip
30:52 Conclusion and Contact Information
Guest Bio
Stella Dennig (she/her) is the Co-Owner/GM of Daytrip, a fermentation-driven party of a restaurant in Oakland, CA. Core to Daytrip’s mission is to push toward a more equitable future for this industry and at the center of that, its workforce. Daytrip has been written up for its employment practices by publications like Bon Appetit, The New York Times, and the SF Chronicle. Daytrip was a Bon Appetit top 10 Best New Restaurant in America in 2023 and Co-Owner/Chef Finn Stern was a James Beard Semifinalist in 2024.
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Credits
Host & Producer: D. J. Costantino
Producer: Samantha Fung
Editor: Fina Charleston
About 7shifts
7shifts is a scheduling, payroll, and employee retention app designed to help restaurants thrive. With an easy-to-use app and industry-specific solutions, 7shifts saves time, reduces errors, and helps keep costs in check for more than 50,000 restaurants.