More than a Stay: The Emotion Behind Exceptional Service
In this episode of Dine & Dish, host Michele DiMeo, the Restaurant Diva, sits down with Amanda, the Innkeeper of the charming Foster Harris House, to uncover the heart and soul behind truly exceptional hospitality. Together, they explore what it means to create emotional connections with guests, the art of anticipating needs before they're spoken, and how genuine care transforms a stay—or a meal—into an unforgettable experience. Tune in for heartfelt stories, timeless service lessons, and a reminder that the best hospitality always begins with empathy.
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41:39
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41:39
To Tip or Not to Tip? The Real Story Behind the Service Charge
This week on Dine & Dish, Michele and special guest Stephen DesLauriers dive deep into one of hospitality's hottest and most complicated topics — tipping. From its surprising origins in 17th-century England's coffeehouses and taverns (where "To Insure Promptitude" gave us the word "TIP") to its modern-day evolution in American dining culture, tipping has always walked the line between gratitude and expectation. Whether you're a server, restaurateur, or diner who's ever wondered how much is enough, this conversation gets to the heart of what tipping says about value, appreciation, and the art of service. Pull up a chair — it's time to dish.
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36:06
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36:06
The Vibe Shift – What's Hot in Restaurants Right Now
"It's not just a meal — it's a show. Michele and Krista uncover the hottest dining trends, from tableside theatrics and interactive chef experiences to candle-lit dinners, dining in the dark, and AI-driven immersive tables. Learn how restaurants are turning every meal into an unforgettable, Instagram-worthy moment." Keeping it real and bringing it back to Hospitality.
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40:15
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FOH Role: Starting with Servers
In this episode Krista and Michele walk through what they look for when hiring servers, what a typical training schedule looks like, and of course lots of little extras with a hint of celebrity gossip. Big thank you to our listener, Angie for asking the questions....keep 'em coming. Cheers!!
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The Power of Reviews: Yelp, Google & Your Restaurant's Reputation
Love them or hate them, guest reviews on Yelp and Google can make or break your restaurant's reputation. In this episode, Michele and Krista dive into the good, the bad, and the downright ugly world of online reviews. From celebrating those 5-star raves to gracefully handling the tough critics, you'll learn how to: Respond like a pro (even when you want to scream). Turn negative feedback into opportunities. Use reviews to motivate and train your staff. Leverage glowing guest comments in your marketing. Whether you're a restaurant owner, manager, or just love a good review story, this episode will give you practical tips on mastering the review game
Welcome to Dine & Dish, the podcast hosted by Michele DiMeo, the Restaurant Diva. Join Michele as she dives into the heart of hospitality, service, and the restaurant world, sharing stories, trends, and insights from chefs, restaurateurs, and industry insiders and leaders.
From dining culture and behind-the-scenes tales to tips for guests and professionals alike, Dine & Dish celebrates the art, passion, and joy of great food and exceptional service. Whether you're a foodie, a hospitality professional, or simply love a good story from the table, this is your front-row seat to the world of dining — with a little diva flair.
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