Welcome to Speculations By the Sea, where the musings are free but the laughs cost extra. For the last three years I have found a home working at the Bistro By the Sea, in Matunuck RI. It has been said in the Providence Journal that, “Backstage at Theatre By The Sea’s restaurant kitchen, there’s high drama to be found every night, a dependable 90 minutes of fiery action, random moments of impending disaster, and a multi-layered love story electrifying the room.” Though a bit exaggerated I find every night at the bistro has stories to be shared and philosophies to be formed. Whether I am hosting or serving, my co workers who I could consider family help weave the story of an entertaining adventure, relatable to all food service workers, or comedy seekers.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

A mid weekend pick-me-up: The best business model.


After going to school for some many years thinking analytically in terms of business models and leadership, I have learned that there is a certain unknown ingredient to successful restaurants or companies like the bistro. I have worked in everything from big companies to sole proprietorships, from Quizno’s to the Bistro. No one can run a business like the Crowe family!

What is it about Duane’s trusting relationships with his staff that makes him such a great boss and motivator? How is it that success seems to be achieved even when he accommodated almost every customer? Duane holds weddings with the more benefits and lower costs than anyone else. How does this happen? I hope that I too one day can mirror the invisible model, which Duane creates holding up an amazing positive atmosphere that makes everyone feel like part of the family.

Working at the Bistro taught me many things and the biggest to think about business more like relationships, and secondly that my professional success does not need to be defined by a 9 to 5 job. The Bistro is such a great place to work because of the relationships. Why does Kim drive up from Jersey to work a part time summer job that is probably not necessary? I think that is a complicated question however I wouldn’t hesitate to say that the relationship she has as part of the staff has some effect on the decision.

In lower level of management, Adam works along side each of our staff members and still instills a sense of all knowing problem solver. Though this is not always the easiest method when solving conflicts, it has created a mood that we are all in it together. Adam’s tough exterior protrudes if he likes you, however it is occasionally shed if you are shedding tears. Even though he doesn’t know what else to do and just desperately tries to make you laugh, his kindness is not unnoticed.

Between Karleen’s sweetness and ability to calm patrons and the rest of the staff’s incredible dynamics, it seems that the bistro has found a super team. I don’t think it’s just by accident. This restaurant has a special magic that I have never seen somewhere else and I think it exists in its employees because of Duane, Karleen and Adam.

Clap if you believe!

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