Nov
Recently, we heard about this place called “The Chicago Pizza Kitchen” in the Keele & Major Mackenzie (North-West of Toronto). Some friends told us about this place and that we have to experience the amazing Chicago deep pizza experience. So we go and our experience was nothing better then the best!
My wife and our three children went one early Sunday after Church. The cook was just arriving to work when we arrived. He was clean cut and was wearing one of the whitest uniforms I have ever seen. They were not scheduled to open for another hour. Dup! It was our fault, we didn’t check beforehand.
Instead of making us feel stupid and then locking us out, or bidding us farewell till the next time, he ushered us in and offered us seats, drinks and menus. He cooked and served us and we were in the take-out portion of the restaurant! He was so friendly it was unbelievable!
I know that he was trained to be that way because he looked like he was 18 years old and I know 30 year olds who have less people skills with a decade working with other people! Take note restaurant owners, it is possible to get young people to provide exceptional service, with good training.
Then 45 minutes later a respectable young counter girl came in that looked also looked approximately the same age as the cook and she too gave us amazing service. She made conversation with us, adored our children, cleaned off any dirty plates and napkins. In between servicing our table she asked some great questions that all servers should be trained to ask:
“Oh, how did you hear about us?”
“Do you live close to us?”
What she discovered was that we did not live close and you know what she said…?
“Oh, you don’t live close, if you are ever going this way again, feel free to call us 40mins ahead of time and we’ll get some hot food ready for you.”
WOW!
We watched as she dazzled other tables that came in after us. Whoever has trained these employees has created an environment that is painting this business as being remarkable. When customers find businesses being remarkable they can’t help themselves talking about it. They become your fans or as Seth Godin would call “Mavericks“. This post is living proof of how people will spread the word, when you offer exceptional services.
It’s the little things that when done with consistency, sincerity, joy and friendliness that just will blow your customers away. Would I rather spend double the money at “Chicago Pizza Kitchen“, 40 minutes away from my home, than a pizza franchise or “Joe Average Pizza” …? You bet! And so will others. This pizza parlor will be very busy and successful for years to come. How is your restaurant establishment striving to be remarkable?