In this episode, Damian sits down with Sean Finter, hospitality industry veteran and founder of Barmetrix, to dive deep into what it takes to create truly exceptional bar and restaurant experiences. Sean shares his journey from washing dishes at a truck stop to running a $32 million hospitality group, all while learning the invaluable lessons that drive his passion for service and hospitality. Tune in as he and Damian discuss topics like the importance of authentic hospitality, the art of engineering cocktail menus, and the keys to running a financially successful and guest-focused bar.
Key Topics:
- Sean’s unconventional start in the industry and his early lessons in hospitality.
- The transformative impact of Barmetrix and how it supports bars and restaurants worldwide.
- Why authentic, guest-centered hospitality is critical to success.
- The three “gears” of a successful bar: guest experience, staff dynamics, and strong leadership.
- How to engineer cocktail menus that resonate with customers and increase sales.
- The value of creating stories around cocktails to elevate the guest experience.
- Practical advice for managing bar pricing, controlling costs, and maintaining efficiency.
- Sean’s insights on mentorship, leadership, and bringing out the best in your team.
Quickfire Highlights:
- Recommended books: The Craft of the Cocktail by Dale DeGroff and Cocktail Codex by the Death & Co. team.
- The importance of a well-curated cocktail library for bartenders and bar managers.
- Tips on building rapport, selling effectively, and creating memorable experiences.
Connect with Sean:
For anyone in the hospitality industry looking to level up their business or just seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable insights and industry wisdom.
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