The Holidays and You
With the holiday season upon us, I am reminded of many family gatherings filled with gifts, fun, food and of course, family. With five brothers and sisters there were smiles and frowns, tears and laughs, fights, games and hugs. Now, with family in multiple states and conflicting schedules, our holiday get-togethers are far more subdued, but fun just the same.
This got me thinking about all the people who, for whatever reason do not have friends or family with whom they can gather for the holidays. What do they do for meals? I’m sure some will stay home and cook on their own, but is there anything we in the restaurant industry can do to make people feel like they’re home for the holidays?
There was a great article in the November 21, 2011 issue of Nation’s Restaurant News about this very subject. Managing Editor, Christi Ravneberg talks about her experience Thanksgiving weekend as one of the many people who decided not to go home. There is one sentence that really stood out. She states, “Even though most American’s hunker down at home on Thanksgiving, operators would be wise to remember that there are plenty of people willing to spend money for a little taste of home on Thursday – and the days surrounding it.” The same is true for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other holiday you celebrate.
If you already are open on major holidays, some people will want to just make reservations and enjoy the meal, but others might be interested in sitting at a common table with other “orphans” and creating a shared experience. In essence they become family for the day. Or think about offering specials for the weekend that aren’t holiday related. For instance, if guests donate food for the food shelf, you may give them a free drink or appetizer. Regardless of what you decide is right for you, make it a tradition every year and get your staff involved in developing the idea and promoting it to your guests.
Nothing can replace my family’s secret grog recipe (ginger ale, cranberry and orange juice, and a touch of vodka for good measure!) but there are many restaurants I would consider going to on the holidays. I know the food will be good but it’s the extra little things that can make a big difference. I just got a picture in my mind of the movie “A Christmas Story” where the family is forced to go out for Chinese food as that was the only place open. To make it feel more like Christmas, the waitstaff sang Christmas carols. Again, it’s a small gesture but it came from the heart.
I encourage you to read Christi’s article and start thinking about what you can do during the holiday season to make people feel more at home. You can find the link here.
Also, tell me a little about your holiday traditions at the restaurant. I’m looking for places to go.
Happy Holidays!
Ben