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Serving Hospitality for 75 Years: Ralph Lewis of Okeechobee Steakhouse

Serving Hospitality for 75 Years: Ralph Lewis of Okeechobee Steakhouse

Update: 2025-06-09

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Ralph Lewis, CEO and third-generation owner of Okeechobee Steakhouse, joins Zack Oates to share the secrets behind one of Florida’s most iconic dining institutions. From 75 years of legacy service to 350,000 free birthday steaks, Ralph dives into how family values and consistent hospitality drive lasting guest loyalty.

Zack and Ralph discuss:

What it means to deliver true hospitality, not just service
How Ralph’s team creates “wow” moments with steak and dessert trays
Why every team member should feel seen, not just staffed
The impact of birthday traditions on guest memory and retention
How to train front-of-house staff as experience specialists
Why culture and consistency beat trendy tech

Thanks, Ralph!

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralph-lewis-980a74358/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/okeechobee-steakhouse/
https://www.instagram.com/okeechobeesteakhouse/
https://www.okeesteakhouse.com/

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Serving Hospitality for 75 Years: Ralph Lewis of Okeechobee Steakhouse

Serving Hospitality for 75 Years: Ralph Lewis of Okeechobee Steakhouse

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