Out-of-control yummy, part 2

In my last post I mentioned my amazing dining experience at Cafe Gratitude, an organic vegan/raw restaurant in Berkeley, California. Their experience extended to the bathroom, as your image in the mirror combined with this statement: I am completely fulfilled in this now moment.


When our server Faith brought us our check, she asked us the question of the day: "What inspires you?" I asked her if they have different questions and who chooses them. She said the owners and managers choose the questions, and everyone is asked the question at the beginning of their shift. They do what she described as a "clearing process," letting go of anything negative on their minds before stepping out onto the floor to work with customers. It explained a lot about the positive vibe in the place, and the chefs in the kitchen (all visible) looked really happy to be cooking such wonderful food.

At the cashier's station I noticed the shop, which sells the Abounding River game, the cookbook, hats, and even these wonderful bumper stickers (which I think were free). I will definitely go back to this restaurant and purchase some items on my next trip. This is a perfect example of my Finale step, extending your experience into people's lives beyond their visit. (It only works when you've created a wonderful, unique experience and you offer high-quality merchandise that beautifully reflects your brand.)

Tip of the day: How can you extend your experience into your restrooms? Through merchandise? How can you help empower your employees to give a great experience? While this groovy restaurant may be very different from what your experience offers, see how you can apply these tips to your business.

Technorati Tags: customer experience, customer service, Berkeley , restaurant, Cafe Gratitude, consultant

Out-of-control yummy, part 1

On a recent trip to San Francisco, I had an amazing dining experience at Cafe Gratitude, an organic vegan/raw restaurant in Berkeley. I had never been to a vegan restaurant. As I was dining with a friend who is vegan (and I am off sugar and gluten), it seemed like a good choice. I had no idea I would still be raving about the food a month later.

They did a lot of wonderful things to create a great experience for diners. They've got an excellent catchphrase/tag line/mission statement: What are you grateful for?

All the tables are themed.

The gorgeous "place mat" is actually a board game called Abounding River. The owners created the game and then found an artist to realize their vision. The artwork is used throughout the restaurant in posters. This corner says, "Generosity."

Our water bottles said, "divine" and "peace." Don't know if this was inspired by "Messages from Water" (in the movie "What the Bleep! Do We Know?") but they were very beautiful and inspiring.

Every plate, cup, and bowl asks the question, "What are you grateful for?"

Tip of the day: A unique vision like this, realized with such attention to detail, can never be copied. You simply have no competition when you create the category.

Technorati Tags: customer experience, customer service, Berkeley , restaurant, Cafe Gratitude, consultant

Albuh-quirky: Get your vegg on

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.: If you like vegetarian food, or just want a groovy experience, don't miss the Annapurna Chai Tea House. I found it through the Happy Cow website.


Hand-painted murals set the tone.


The largest chai tea selection I've ever seen, on a hand-decorated board.


The beautifully painted table added richness to a simple restaurant.


Incredibly delicious food, lovingly presented.

Tip of the day: A great experience doesn't have to be expensive, just thought-through and authentic. If you love what you're doing it always shows through.

Technorati Tags: customer experience, customer service, authenticity, Albuquerque, vegetarian restaurant