The Digital Restaurant

Discover the future of restaurant delivery and technology in our latest episode, where Meredith and I dissect Deliveroo's earnings, the shift towards first-party pickup channels, and how senators are scrutinizing junk fees. If you're in the restaurant business or just a food delivery aficionado, this discussion is packed with insights on consumer behavior, the UK versus US financial transparency, and whether pandemic-driven changes are here to stay. Join us as we navigate the dynamic interplay between customer data trends and restaurant technology. We'll explore why operators are craving end-to-end tech solutions and how this demand is transforming customer interactions, from digital kiosks to personalized ordering experiences. Don't miss out on our analysis of investment trends within the industry and the critical need for transparency in digital transactions, a hot topic amongst policymakers. Tune in for an enriching conversation at the forefront of the restaurant industry's tech evolution.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

This special edition of The Digital Restaurant podcast features James Buell COO of World of Beer Bar & Kitchen, discussing the innovative approaches to digital customer acquisition. The conversation revolves around how the integration of technology, particularly through partnerships with companies like Nift, plays a crucial role in driving customer engagement and loyalty.James shares his journey from a marketer to COO, emphasizing the value of mentorship and seizing opportunities within smaller, nimble teams. World of Beer's focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, both in-house and digitally, through their open floor plans, exceptional beer and food offerings, and customer-centric operations, is highlighted as a key differentiator in the competitive restaurant landscape.The use of digital tools, such as the World of Beer app, enhances customer engagement by offering personalized recommendations and encouraging exploration within the beer community. The discussion also delves into event marketing and the strategic pivot to grassroots approaches, effectively bridging the gap between digital presence and physical experiences. Nift emerges as a pivotal partner in acquiring net new customers by leveraging geo-targeting to introduce World of Beer to potential patrons who have yet to experience their offerings. James underscores the importance of the first visit, facilitated by Nift's unique approach to customer acquisition, which not only introduces new customers to World of Beer but also significantly impacts average check sizes compared to traditional marketing methods.The conversation with Nift also covers the mechanics of their model, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between digital initiatives and physical customer experiences. Nift's ability to generate new customer visits without cannibalizing existing clientele and its measurable impact on business metrics such as average check sizes and customer acquisition costs underscores its value as a digital marketing tool.James' narrative reflects a comprehensive digital strategy that embraces technology, personalized customer engagement, and partnerships to enhance the dining experience and business growth. His insights offer valuable lessons on the dynamic interplay between digital innovation and operational excellence in the restaurant industry.Learn more about Nift at www.gonift.comLearn more about World of Beer at www.WOBfranchising.comSupport the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Imagine your dinner zooming to your doorstep, no driver in sight - that's the future we're unpacking as Waymo and Uber blaze trails with driverless deliveries right here in Arizona. The roads to cost reduction and safety enhancements are mapped out in a captivating discussion, where we navigate through the impact on tipping culture and the potential for marketplace delivery services to thrive. Then, in a personal twist, I share a laugh-out-loud debate: when celebrating milestones, should one opt for car-shaped dumplings or the real deal?When the screens go dark and the systems crash, how do digital restaurants keep the burger flipping and the dough rising? We're examining the lessons learned from tech outages that left giants like McDonald's and Panera in a bind. With insights from industry experts, we strategize on defending against cyber threats and maintaining customer trust amidst digital disruption. Plus, we look beyond the IT department for answers, exploring how entire teams can become cyberspace sentinels.Joining us for a riveting exchange, Priyam Saraswat from Vooch dives into the murky waters of chargebacks and 'friendly fraud,' a growing thorn in the side of restaurant revenues. With the younger crowd's slight of hand challenging operators, we rally the community to discuss tactics for shielding businesses from these sneaky setbacks. We also ponder the potential of driverless tech in easing these financial pains. Your thoughts on these pressing matters are not just welcomed, they're essential – let's stir up the conversation and cook up some tech-savvy solutions together.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

In this insightful episode, we're thrilled to welcome Lauren Fernandez, the visionary behind Full Course, a groundbreaking initiative reshaping the landscape of the food industry. Lauren joins host Meredith to share the exciting journey and purpose of Full Course, an organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs in the culinary world.Lauren reveals the inspiring addition of three dynamic women to the Full Course board, each bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to support the mission. From the revival of legacy brands to the infusion of tech in restaurants, Lauren and Meredith delve into the essence of Full Course's mission: to provide minority and women entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, strategies, and capital to grow their brands.This conversation is not just about investment; it's about making a tangible impact, nurturing brands that cater to diverse communities, and fostering a more inclusive industry. Lauren discusses the challenges these entrepreneurs face, from the lack of access to capital to the need for operational expertise, and how Full Course is addressing these gaps.Moreover, Lauren touches on the significant consumer behavior shifts post-pandemic, highlighting the demand for culturally rich and diverse dining experiences. This episode is a deep dive into how Full Course is not just investing in businesses but is committed to changing lives by supporting the growth of unique, culturally significant restaurant brands.Meredith and Lauren explore the critical role of technology in modernizing restaurant operations, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to age-old problems like inventory management. They also discuss the essential elements Full Course looks for in potential investments, with a strong focus on the founders' vision, leadership, and the brand's unique position in the market.Join us as Lauren Fernandez shares her passion and vision for a more inclusive and innovative food industry, through the lens of Full Course. This is more than an investment story; it's a movement towards a future where every entrepreneur, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive in the culinary world.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Could your next meal be crafted by artificial intelligence? Tune in as we unwrap the layers of a tech-charged restaurant revolution, where NVIDIA's silicon brains may soon whisk up your dinner while unified commerce cooks up a seamlessly interconnected dining experience. We've sliced into the heart of the pizza-making world at the Vegas Pizza Expo, savored the digital-only innovation of Chick-fil-A's New York experiment, and peppered in Joe Kaskowski's seasoned insights. Our journey through the industry isn’t just about tasting the future; it's about savoring the rich blend of tradition and tech.This week's menu also serves up a hearty discussion on the financial tech shake-up with Loop AI, stirring the pot on the sticky issues of third-party delivery woes. As we sift through the grit of transaction tracking and untangle the spaghetti of chargebacks and cancellations, we're seasoning our conversation with a dash of legislative spice from Florida's latest direct communication laws. It's a full course of strategizing and storytelling, plated with a side of personal experiences and a sprinkle of human essence that no robot chef could ever replicate. So, grab your fork and let's dig into the delicious details!Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

In a recent captivating episode, industry visionaries Carl Orsbourn, Meredith Sandland, Dan Londono, and moderator Kristen Hawley dove deep into the transformative wave sweeping across the restaurant and hospitality sector. Amidst a backdrop of relentless change propelled by digital innovation, consumer preferences, and the global pandemic, the panel explored how the landscape of dining and food delivery is evolving.The episode, rich in insights, began with an emphasis on the pressing need for adaptation within the restaurant industry. Facing new cost pressures, shifting business models, and an ever-growing demand for technological integration, the discussion underscored the importance of resilience and creativity among restaurant operators. The panelists, representing a spectrum of expertise from startup ventures like Alfalfa to seasoned authors and analysts, shared their perspectives on navigating these changes.Central to the conversation was the concept of delivering the digital restaurant experience. Carl and Meredith, co-authors of "Delivering the Digital Restaurant," shared their journey into writing the book and the necessity for restaurant owners to seriously consider digital adoption. Dan Londono shared Alfalfa's story, illustrating how a tech-enabled approach from the ground up can redefine the fast-casual dining experience, focusing on a balance between healthy eating and indulgent treats like salads and donuts.A significant part of the discussion revolved around the challenges and opportunities presented by off-premise dining options such as delivery and takeout. With consumer behavior tilting increasingly towards convenience, the panelists delved into how restaurants could optimize their operations and customer experience through technology, without sacrificing the essence of hospitality that defines the industry.Dynamic pricing emerged as a pivotal theme, with Carl introducing the audience to the concept of using data-driven strategies to adjust pricing in real time, mirroring practices from the airline and hotel industries. This approach, he argued, could lead to more efficient pricing strategies that align more closely with customer demand and willingness to pay.The human element of the restaurant business, particularly labor issues and the changing workforce dynamics, was also addressed. The panelists shared innovative solutions to staffing challenges, including leveraging technology for training and operations, and fostering a culture that values and motivates employees.As the conversation unfolded, the future of restaurants was painted as one of immense potential, driven by personalization, efficiency, and sustainability. The panelists envisioned a world where technology not only streamlines operations but enhances the dining experience, making it more tailored and enjoyable for consumers.In conclusion, Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Is the clink of cutlery against plates soon to be replaced by the silent tap of digital orders? Join Meredith and me as we venture into the world of 100% digital restaurants, weighing the pros and cons of this tech-driven frontier. In the bustling realm of quick-service eateries, touch screens and kiosks are quickly becoming more than just a way to skip the line; they're pivotal in harvesting customer data and inflating check averages, all while striving to maintain that irreplaceable human touch in hospitality. We'll tackle the burning questions around the real price of customer contact info and the hefty investment needed to snag it. Get ready for a culinary journey that could change the way you think about your next dining experience.This episode serves up a full course on the European restaurant scene, diving into the undercurrents of loyalty programs that seem to miss the mark and how data might just be the secret sauce to reinvigorate them. As we slice through the challenges of implementing new technology, like the backlash against dynamic pricing, we also sink our teeth into the evolving economics of the restaurant industry. From the magic number that makes a chain profitable to the revolution of central production units and tech at the heart of new dining concepts, we're peering into the kitchen of tomorrow. So, pull up a chair and savor the insights as we dissect the transformation of the food industry with a blend of skepticism and foresight.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Embark on an enlightening journey through the intricacies of food safety with Christine Schindler, the innovative mind behind Pathspot. As the founder and CEO, Christine brings her background in biomedical engineering and global public health into the bustling world of food service, ensuring diners enjoy meals that are just as safe as they are delicious. At Create last year, Meredith took the conversation to the next level, exploring how restaurants are upping their game in hygiene practices with the help of cutting-edge technology.Get ready for a masterclass in prevention and improving health awareness as we discuss the pandemic's silver lining: a universal pivot towards prioritizing health and safety. Christine and her team at Pathspot are at the forefront, employing a network of sensors that transform back-of-house operations into a digital fortress against contamination. Hear how their hand-washing  system is a true game-changer, providing real-time feedback on hygiene standards and safeguarding against potential health threats. It's not just about washing hands; it's about redefining the standard of cleanliness for the entire industry. Join Meredith and Christine for a compelling dialogue on how technology is serving up a future where dining out is synonymous with peace of mind.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Explore the pulsating heart of the restaurant industry with us as we dissect DoorDash's latest earnings and the seismic shifts in food prices that have reached a 30-year summit. As we navigate through the financial intricacies, we shine a spotlight on the subtle strategies at play in this fiercely competitive market. From Focus Brands' pivot to a platform-centric approach to the ways in which soaring costs shape the dining landscape, we're serving up a full course of analysis that promises to satisfy your appetite for industry knowledge.Venture into the future with us as we stir up the conversation on dining and retail's evolving symbiosis. With insights into Walmart's intriguing partnership with Wanda and the innovative models that Cluster Truck and Kitchen United bring to the table, we question the traditional boundaries between shopping aisles and restaurant tables. And as we chew over Chipotle's sustained financial success, we ponder the potential market disruption ushered in by alternative delivery services and semi-prepared meal kits, all while food prices continue to climb.Cap off your experience with a taste of tomorrow, as we examine Wanda's acquisition of Blue Apron and mull over the savory prospects of drone delivery. Not to be outdone, we delve into Cartgen robots' dance with Uber Eats in Tokyo, a city that may well become the proving ground for automated delivery in urban jungles worldwide. Join us for a rich blend of strategy, technology, and culinary evolution that's tailored to satiate your curiosity and whet your appetite for what's next in the digital dining domain.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Unlock the secrets of culinary content kings Mike Duffy of Yum Crunch and Matt Holloway from Bad Manners. Our kitchen conversation sizzles with their innovative strategies for captivating the palates of digital audiences. From selfie marketing triumphs to the subtle art of social media algorithms, they dish out anecdotes of their journey reshaping the promotional playbook. Their insights serve as a masterclass for foodpreneurs eager to stir organic growth and turn customers into loyal brand promoters through the magnetic power of online engagement.Feast on our rich discussion about the future plate of the restaurant industry. As hashtags and QR codes become the new salt and pepper of marketing, we also carve into the generational shift where social video content is king, and multitasking millennials and Gen Z-ers are the court. Listen as we cover the seismic shift toward social media dominance, exploring the multitasking trends of content consumption, and speculate on the future of AI in the kitchen, stirring both awe and a pinch of nervous anticipation.As we raise our glasses to the power of human connection, we can't help but get excited about the potential of an AI-generated hologram cookbook—sparking a debate on tradition versus tech in the culinary world. Mike and Matt join in, reflecting on the importance of actual engagement in the algorithmic age, and we close with a nod to the unity that shared meals and conversations bring to our tables. Tune in to whet your appetite for innovation and leave with a full serving of wisdom for the digital age.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Get ready to explore the seismic shifts affecting your favorite dining spots as Meredith and I, Carl, guide you through the evolving landscape of the restaurant industry. As Google repositions itself, stepping away from being a middleman in online food ordering, we unlock the repercussions for restaurants and their relationship with tech giants. We don't just stop at a surface analysis; instead, we delve deep into the lawsuit that might have nudged Google aside and the newfound importance of Google My Business in directing patrons to restaurants' chosen ordering methods. Plus, we'll dish out the details on Uber Eats' landmark profit, and what this breakthrough signifies for the broader delivery service sector.Then, strap in as we catapult into the trends and hurdles that today's food service businesses are navigating – from staggering sales predictions and the shift in consumer dining habits to the pressing issue of employment within the industry. You'll get an insider's perspective on how operators are grappling with labor costs, recruitment, and the integration of kitchen tech, alongside the strategies they might employ to combat the financial hangover from the pandemic. And for a taste of tomorrow's tech, we examine Starship's impressive funding success and how innovations like Apple's Vision Pro could transform your next meal into an augmented reality adventure. Join us for this rich blend of culinary currents and technological tides, and witness the restaurant revolution unfold.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Step aside, traditional pizza delivery—there's a new slice in town, and it’s rolling your way. Join us as we sit down with the visionary Benson Tsai of Stellar Pizza, whose fully automated mobile food trucks are dishing out pizzas faster than you can say "extra cheese, please." Benson, who's traversed from the electric vehicle industry to a SpaceX collaboration, now marries his chemical engineering savvy with his culinary curiosity to dish out delectable pizzas on the go. Discover the unexpected journey that led this innovator to reimagine the pizza-making process, and how his high-tech approach is taking Los Angeles by storm, particularly among hungry college students and corporate event-goers.In a whirlwind of efficiency and technology, Benson unveils the operational wizardry behind Stellar Pizza. Imagine a world where pizza production hits warp speed, churning out a fresh pie every 45 seconds. This isn't your average food truck; it's a glimpse into the future of fast food, combining prep work genius with sophisticated commissary logistics. Benson's tale is a tantalizing peek into how automation is slicing labor costs and revolutionizing how we satisfy our pizza cravings. So, grab a slice of this action-packed episode to feed your curiosity and perhaps spark your own entrepreneurial spirit in the bustling world of tech-driven gastronomy.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Unlock the future of dining as Meredith and Carl dissect the evolving tastes of the restaurant industry, analyzing shifts in customer ordering habits and the ingenious ways full-service venues are adapting. As off-premise sales maintain their stronghold, with delivery dwindling and takeout holding firm, we bring to light the rise of direct online ordering and its stronghold on the sector. We tackle the daunting hurdles of inflated labor and commodity costs, and consider the findings from a recent Bank of America report, which uncovers an unexpected spike in technological investments. The conversation takes a turn towards the power of social media, where we unravel the diverse promotional strategies restaurants employ, navigating through the realms of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and the burgeoning influence of TikTok.Prepare to gaze into the technological crystal ball with the Rabbit R1,  that's set to revolutionize the way eateries harness smart tech. We explore the leap from language to action models and the role AI will play in refining customer interaction and streamlining operations. The episode also contemplates the delicate balance of marketplace charges, examining the tug-of-war between restaurants, consumers, and delivery platforms. We take a journey East to scrutinizeMeituan, assessing its approach to an aging demographic amidst a challenging economic landscape. Join us on this culinary adventure, where we peel back the layers of industry trends and technological feats, serving up insights that could very well shape your next dining experience.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Join Carl and Meredith in a fascinating discussion with Anand from Gala Enterprises, recorded at the CREATE conference for Nation's Restaurant News. This episode delves into the critical path to digital maturity for restaurants and the role of technology in this evolution.Anand shares his unique perspective, having grown up in the restaurant industry and now investing in restaurant technologies. From the challenges of integrating disparate systems to the revolution brought on by cloud computing, Anand brings to light the profound impacts and ongoing needs for technology in restaurants.Key points discussed in this episode:[00:01:00] Anand’s journey from restaurant operations to investing in restaurant tech.[00:02:00] Overcoming the challenge of non-integrated systems to create cohesive digital ecosystems.[00:03:00] The transformative effect of technology on restaurant efficiency and data management.[00:07:00] The role of APIs and the confusion surrounding technology selection for operators.[00:09:00] The convergence trend in restaurant technology and the rise of 'all-in-one' solutions.[00:09:00] Investment insights on distinguishing viable tech businesses from fleeting products.[00:14:00] The shift to cloud-based POS systems and their future as the backbone of restaurant operations.[00:15:00] Predictions on the simplification of technology and cost reduction as the industry matures.[00:17:00] The distinction between machine learning applications and true artificial intelligence in the restaurant space.Carl and Meredith explore these topics and more, offering valuable insights for both independent operators and multi-unit brands looking to navigate the digital landscape. Stay tuned as they draw parallels with other industries, highlighting potential future trends for the restaurant sector.Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast to not miss out on expert interviews like this, where we unpack the latest in digital innovation shaping the future of dining.For further engagement and insights, reach out to Anand on LinkedIn or visit www.GalaCapitalPartners.com. Follow us on YouTube and our social media channels to stay updated with the latest episodes and conversations.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Ready to envision the future of dining? This week, we're slicing into how Walmart's cutting-edge drone delivery could be a game-changer for the restaurant industry. Imagine your favorite meals flying to your doorstep! We dissect Walmart's innovative approach, servicing 1.8 million households, and its ripple effect on everything from kitchen layouts to inventory management. Plus, we're serving up a taste of personalization with AI-powered search, and how this tech could create a bespoke dining experience for your next big game day party.As we stir the pot further, we discuss the perfect recipe for digital engagement in an era where a strong online presence is as crucial as the secret sauce in your burger. For restaurateurs swimming against the tide of marketing demands, we share survival strategies that won't nibble away at your budget. And, thanks to insights from the Nation's Restaurant News Intelligence report, we're sinking our teeth into the meaty topic of data-driven optimization—essential for those looking to cook up a storm in the digital transformation kitchen. So, join us for a feast of knowledge where we also grapple with the evolving tipping culture and propose innovative solutions to keep both customers and delivery drivers hungry for more.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Ever wonder how restaurants are adapting to the rapidly changing world?  Join us in this enlightening episode of The Digital Restaurant Podcast as we dive into the future of the restaurant industry with our special guest, Mario Del Perro, a visionary from DOM Food Group and co-creator of Mendocino Farms.  Mario shares his unique perspective on the future of the restaurant industry as we delve into the importance of understanding your target audience, creating a craveable menu, and more as we dissect the essence of building a successful restaurant brand. Mario also enlightens us on the significance of a kitchen designed for off-premise and virtual orders and how to navigate the complex virtual kitchen space. We talk about the food delivery revolution and the ever critical topic of sustainability in the restaurant industry. You'll hear Mario's take on creating a delivery-friendly healthy menu that maintains freshness and flavor, even after a 45-minute journey. The conversation doesn't end there; we dive into the influence of Whole Foods Market and the significance of health and sustainability in the industry. It's a discussion you won't want to miss!In this episode:🌟 Digital Evolution [00:04:54]: Discover how Goop Kitchen, a digitally native brand, is revolutionizing the virtual kitchen space with its forward-thinking digital presence.🍴 Culinary Diversity [00:04:00]: Mario sheds light on the importance of culinary diversity, creating differentiated and craveable products, and the rising trend of healthier food concepts.🌱 Sustainability Meets Taste [00:16:19]: Delve into the challenges of crafting delicious, health-conscious food options and the strategic packaging decisions that tell a brand's story while maintaining food quality.💡 Celebrity Impact [00:16:47]: Learn about Gwyneth Paltrow’s influence on Goop Kitchen and the authenticity she brings to the brand.📈 The Future of Food [00:20:36]: Uncover the potential convergence of the restaurant and grocery sectors, and get a glimpse into the future strategies of Dom Food Group.Whether you're a foodie, tech enthusiast, or someone passionate about the future of dining, this episode offers valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant industry. Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve!Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Ever wondered how your favorite burrito bowl or frappuccino is mirroring the likes of Amazon or eBay? Buckle up, as we take you through the evolution of digital restaurants, transforming into behemoths of personalized marketing and e-commerce efficiency. We're serving up a hearty discussion on the seismic shifts that Starbucks and Chipotle have made, and we're slicing into the meat of e-commerce metrics such as customer acquisition costs and lifetime value, essential ingredients for a thriving restaurant brand in the competitive online food space. And for a dash of tech-talk, we contrast the automated kitchens of Sweetgreen with e-commerce giants, stirring the pot on innovation in food service.As the main course, we present the intricate challenges and trends sizzling within the restaurant industry, particularly for those with 10 to 100 locations that are grappling with consolidation's mixed blessings. We sit down to discuss the delicate balance of efficiency and maintaining the zest of culinary innovation amidst a landscape of growing third-party delivery services expanding their reach. The heat turns up as we address the scorching topic of labor costs and tip fatigue, simmering with the question of whether this will push the industry towards the robotic arms of automation. Join us for this recipe of insights, where we blend the fresh perspectives of restaurant owners with the seasoned strategies of industry players to dish out a forecast for the culinary world of 2024.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

In this episode of The Digital Restaurant podcast, we're excited to share our conversation with Steph So, the Head of Digital at Shake Shack. With a rich background in e-commerce spanning across various industries, Steph brings a unique perspective to the fast casual dining scene. Shake Shack, a leader in innovation within the restaurant space, has been a trailblazer in integrating hospitality into the fast casual setting.Steph discusses the brand's focus on creating an "enlightened experience" for guests, whether they're ordering from a kiosk, through the app, or in person. A remarkable 57% of Shake Shack's Q1 2023 sales were digital, a testament to the success of their digital strategy. Steph emphasizes the importance of removing friction from the digital experience, ensuring that it's intuitive and quick, yet still maintains a personal touch.The conversation then delves into the concept of digital hospitality and the balancing act between automation and human interaction. Steph shares insights on how automation has enhanced the role of team members, allowing them to focus more on guest experiences rather than just transactional duties.Another critical aspect discussed is the omnichannel approach of Shake Shack. Understanding that guests have different preferences, Shake Shack aims to provide a consistent, high-quality experience across all channels, whether it's in-store, via the app, or through delivery.Loyalty and guest centricity are also key themes. Steph talks about Shake Shack’s approach to loyalty programs, focusing more on offering experiences rather than just discounts. She highlights the importance of personalizing guest interactions and how they use data to tailor experiences, driving both loyalty and frequency.Finally, Steph touches on the backend operations, explaining how they integrate various digital ordering systems to maintain accuracy and efficiency. This insightful episode provides a comprehensive look at how Shake Shack is navigating the digital transformation in the restaurant industry, setting new standards for guest experiences in fast casual dining.Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Ever wondered how the restaurant industry is evolving amidst the shockwaves of the pandemic and soaring labor costs? Brace yourselves for an enlightening conversation with industry mavericks - Zach Rash, co founder and CEO of Coco Robotics, Seth Cohen, president of Sweetfin, Jim Goodman of Bevy and Glenn Gerlich of Loop AI, and of course the irrepressibly impressive Alex Canter and our host, Saul Cooperstein of Virtual Dining Concepts.We're also putting the spotlight on the intriguing tie-up of real estate and future delivery platforms in the restaurant industry in this episode. We delve into the potential of robotics in tackling high delivery costs and making it more profitable for restaurants. We also discuss the impact of technology such as drones and robots on the controversial topic of delivery platforms and their commissions. Our conversation takes a forward-looking turn as we delve into our expansion plans for 2024, the rise of virtual brands, and the importance of aligning with industry trends. We wrap up by exploring how vendors and suppliers can approach businesses in this fast-paced industry. So, join us for a thought-provoking discussion on strategies, industry trends, and the future of the restaurant industry. Be prepared for a hearty serving of knowledge!Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.

Time to navigate the exhilarating world of virtual restaurants with Geoff Alexander, the entrepreneurial leader behind WowBao. This intriguing episode promises to dive into the finer details of this revolutionary sector, where we discuss the triumphs, the challenges, and the sheer potential that lies within. Geoff's passion for this space is infectious as he spills the beans on WowBao's unique approach to consistency and execution, and the importance of having resilient partnerships.Are virtual kitchens the future? Is their impact on traditional restaurants fair game or an unwarranted criticism? We tackle these pressing questions with an unbiased lens, exploring the various models within this space and the pivotal role of delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash. We also shed light on the controversy that often surrounds virtual brands, questioning the fairness of the criticism they receive for simply trying to survive and generate revenue. Geoff reveals the importance of supply chain partnerships in virtual brands. His insights into the success story of WowBao's standout Chinese food underlines the significance of having a unique product and a robust supply chain. Listen on as we reveal the recipe for success within the virtual restaurant landscape, underscored by innovation, resilience, and strategic partnerships!Support the show🔔 Subscribe to The Digital Restaurant Podcast and follow us on YouTube for more episodes that combine the love of food with the latest in technology. Your next restaurant tech adventure starts here!📖 Get your copy of the Delivering the Digital Restaurant books at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎤 Have Carl or Meredith come and speak at your company conference! Learn more at www.theDigital.Restaurant🎙️📰Please subscribe to our newsletter and connect with Carl & Meredith's Delivering the Digital Restaurant page on LinkedIn for their twice-a-month newsletter.