Shows
The Restaurant RoadmapThe Power of Social Media InfluencersIn this episode, we dive into the evolving world of restaurant marketing and speak to Vince Wang of Mustard.love to explore how they have become the largest local influencer network built specifically for restaurants. With over 175,000 creators, Mustard.love brings a powerful mix of local discovery, guaranteed content, and measurable ROI, helping operators drive real guests, real revenue, and real traction in a world where everyone scrolls before they eat.We unpack how Mustard.love shifted from influencer subscriptions to a streamlined platform that automates recruiting, scheduling, tracking, and reporting, solving one of the biggest pain...
2026-02-0426 minThe Restaurant RoadmapThe Backbone of Operational Excellence - Inside the Supply ChainIn this episode, we break down the critical role of Supply Chain in building a consistent, high-quality, and scalable restaurant brand. From safeguarding quality and food safety to negotiating smarter vendor agreements, this conversation explores how a strong supply chain becomes both the guardian of the brand and a driver of profitability. We walk through the philosophy behind effective supply chain management, the importance of cross-department collaboration, how distribution impacts cost and service, and what it takes to build powerful supplier partnerships. Whether you're growing a single concept or managing a national brand, this episode delivers practical insights to...
2026-01-2143 minThe Restaurant RoadmapBuilding a Concept That Works — From Vision to Market FitIn this episode, we explain what it really takes to develop a restaurant concept that stands out, connects with guests, and increases profitability. From balancing passion with strategy to understanding your target market and creating a crave-worthy signature dish, this episode is packed with insights to help you build smarter, not harder.
2026-01-0746 minThe Restaurant RoadmapRebuilding Catering: Solving the People and Pipeline ProblemIn this episode of the The Restaurant Roadmap, we dig into two of the biggest challenges in catering today; people and pipeline. From staffing shortages to stalled sales, hosts explore how to rebuild catering programs that are profitable, sustainable, and team-driven.Listeners will learn how to define catering-specific roles, create growth paths that retain top performers, and implement training systems that reduce chaos on event day. The conversation also covers how to build a predictable sales pipeline using CRMs, client follow-ups, and strategic partnerships that turn every event into repeat business.By the end, operators...
2025-12-1752 minThe Restaurant RoadmapBudgets, Cash Flow, and Their Impact on Restaurant Operations - Part 2In Part 2 of our deep dive into restaurant financing and cash flow, Danny and financial expert Clyde return to break down the real numbers behind profitability. Building on the fundamentals from Part 1, this episode explores the “mathematics of a restaurant,” including prime cost targets, leveraging fixed expenses, and why top-line growth is the true driver of success. The conversation also demystifies cash flow, what it is, why it matters more than a P&L, and how operators can use projections, seasonality planning, and responsible expense management to stay ahead. From vendor relations and supply chain opportunities to training managers on f...
2025-12-1042 minThe Restaurant RoadmapBudgets, Cash Flow, and Their Impact on Restaurant OperationsIn this episode, we explore the vital role that budgets and cash flow play in maintaining a restaurant's smooth, profitable, and sustainable operation. Whether you manage a single location or multiple sites, understanding how to forecast, allocate, and safeguard your financial resources is essential for achieving long-term success.
2025-11-2644 minThe Restaurant RoadmapKitchen Ops Part 2 Back of HousePreviously, we explored the foundational systems every kitchen needs to run efficiently, from establishing structure and consistency to building a culture of accountability.In Part Two, we dive deeper into the daily kitchen operations that keep the back of house performing at its best. Whether you’re leading a team or tightening up your kitchen systems, this episode gives you a practical roadmap for smoother, more consistent operations every single day.
2025-11-1255 minThe Restaurant RoadmapKitchen OpsIn this episode, we walk through the critical daily kitchen operations that keep the back of house running efficiently and consistently. From smart purchasing tactics and how to receive deliveries with precision, to proper storage methods that maintain food safety and reduce waste — we cover it all. We also dig into prep procedures that maximize productivity, the importance of thorough line checks before every shift, and how a well-structured close-to-open routine sets the tone for a successful day. Whether you're leading a kitchen or looking to tighten up your systems, this episode gives you a clear Roadmap for smoother, mo...
2025-10-2954 minThe Restaurant RoadmapLeading the Right Way: Accountability, Ownership & DelegationDanny, Amanda, and Eric from Synergy Restaurant Consultants break down what it really takes to lead effectively in restaurants today. They share how to build accountability, inspire ownership, delegate smarter, and handle tough conversations with confidence, so you can develop stronger teams and lead without burning out.
2025-10-1540 minThe Restaurant RoadmapThe GM Factor: How Leadership Drives Restaurant SuccessIn the debut episode of The Restaurant Roadmap, industry veterans Danny, Amanda Stokes, and Eric Lauer, together bringing 150+ years of experience, dive into what makes restaurant leadership truly effective. They explore why general managers are the linchpin of success and share practical strategies for building trust, setting clear expectations, and creating a culture of accountability, without micromanaging. From staffing and giving feedback to managing difficult team members and leading across generations, the hosts reveal how strong leadership drives both happier employees and better guest experiences.
2025-09-0351 minThe Restaurant RoadmapWelcome To The Restaurant RoadmapThe Restaurant Roadmap is your guide to building and running a successful restaurant. Each episode explores the full journey of operations—from planning and development to menu design, execution, and growth. Hosts Danny Bendas, Amanda Stokes, and Chef Eric Lauer bring decades of expertise, joined by industry leaders and restaurant professionals who share their insights and stories. Together, they uncover strategies, tools, and lessons that help operators improve performance, strengthen teams, and elevate the guest experience. Whether you’re opening your first location or refining an established brand, The Restaurant Roadmap equips you to navigate every step with confidence.
2025-08-2701 min
Grit Won't QuitDanny Bendas: Building Bravo 5 with Purpose, Grit, and Family FirstIn this episode of Grit Won't Quit, Tom sits down with Danny Bendas of Bravo 5 Investigative & Protective Services LLC to talk about his powerful journey from the Navy to the Parsippany Police Department—and now, to entrepreneurship. Danny shares what it was like making the leap from a steady paycheck to running his own business, the mindset shift that comes with failure, and why family was the driving force behind his decision to retire early and start something new. He also talks about the power of networking, the support of fellow first responders, and how rewarding it is to se...
2025-06-0232 min