Doing Things Beautifully
Google
Having spent nearly four decades in the hospitality industry - managing restaurants in five-star hotels around the world - what stands out to me most when I walk into a place where people eat and drink is, first and foremost, how one is received.
Of course, the ambience plays a role, and I naturally glance at the menu. But for me, whether I choose to stay or walk away often depends entirely on the first person who takes my order - whether it's a drink or a meal. Over the years, I've become quite good at reading people, especially those in the service industry. Many waiters or restaurateurs, unfortunately, are in it because they believe it's easy money. What they often lack is the commitment and charisma needed to justify why the drink in my hand - a simple double gin and soda - outside of happy hour - costs almost as much as an entire bottle of gin I could purchase in a liquor store. We go out not just for food or drink, but for an experience. And that’s something employees behind the bar can too easily forget.
But yesterday, I met someone who reminded me why going out matters - someone who gave me a reason to stay and truly enjoy my drink. JD who, believe it or not, is short for Jack Daniels, was that person. For awhile, he helped me forget the heartbreaking news I received two days ago: the loss of my sister. I had been crying so much that my husband suggested we leave our apartment, sit in the sun, and sip a gin and soda. JD made that hour feel lighter. I could actually smile, even laugh. He radiates genuine fulfillment in what he does. I love that in people. You can feel it the moment he greets you - with warmth, with a twinkle in his eye, and with that attentive energy in his body as he prepares your drink. He sings while he mixes, and he crafts each drink with care - another rare quality I’ve come to notice and appreciate when recruiting staff worldwide. There are those who believe that the exterior, tattoos and piercings, for example, are what leave a mark. For me, it’s the ones who shine from within who truly make a difference. Thank you, JD, for easing my pain yesterday with your beautiful presence.