In an industry where the clinking of glasses and the murmur of satisfied diners should be the soundtrack to success, a restaurateur’s impassioned speech has struck a chord with many, revealing a deep-seated issue that’s been simmering beneath the surface of the hospitality sector.
The social media video captures the owner of Table 51 in Montreal delivering a rousing pep talk to his staff, emphasising the importance of creating an unforgettable dining experience. It’s a call to arms that has resonated with many in the industry and beyond, as it highlights what many believe to be a lost art in today’s hospitality scene.
In the clip, the restaurateur passionately describes the anticipation and excitement that customers feel on a Friday or Saturday night. He paints a vivid picture of the effort people put into their evenings out—dressing up, visiting salons, and arranging babysitters—all in the pursuit of a memorable night. This, he argues, is the essence of what dining out should be about: an event, an experience, a show.
As the video has amassed over two million views, it’s clear that his message made an impact. The restaurateur’s words serve as a reminder that every member of the staff, from the hostess to the bartenders, plays a crucial role in setting the stage for this experience.
He said that the energy and atmosphere of a restaurant are palpable and infectious, and when done right, they can turn a simple meal into a performance that leaves diners longing for an encore.
‘This is the restaurant business—it’s a show. You all need to understand you’re a big part of this show, OK? So show up. It’s a sexy thing to be alive in the dining room.’
@table51mtl This is the restaurant business. 🙌#restaurant #tiktok #fyp #foryoupage #restaurantlife #serviceindustry #service #customerservice #meetmeattable #bartenderlife #foryoupageofficial #showbiz #entertainment #tiktok ♬ original sound – Table 51 Restaurant
However, his speech doesn’t shy away from addressing the darker side of the industry. The owner criticises what he calls ‘deadbeats’—staff members who lack the passion and energy that are vital to bringing the dining experience to life.
He then challenges his team to be ‘memorable’ and to think ‘outside the box,’ to leave such an impression on customers that their names become synonymous with an exceptional service that’s worth writing about.
The response to the video has been overwhelmingly positive, with many commenters praising the restaurateur’s understanding of true hospitality and leadership. His words have inspired others, with some expressing a newfound desire to dine out, while others have reflected on the luxury that eating out has become, especially in tough economic times.
‘This is leadership. Makes me want to go to dinner,’ one person commented, while another wrote, ‘So many restaurants have lost this touch. It’s nice to see it.’
‘[People] are forgetting this. Good hospitality is special,’ commented a third person.
‘He gets it. This is such a lost art in the service industry,’ opined someone else.
Another one echoed, ‘This is the pre-shift that’s needed at every restaurant and bar.’
Yet, not everyone agrees with the high-energy approach. Some viewers have expressed their preference for a more subdued dining experience, where waitstaff are seen but not heard, allowing customers to enjoy their company without interruption.
‘Disagree mostly but appreciate the sentiment. I’m out with my husband, I don’t want a memorable server. I hate when they interrupt our conversation. I want a ghost server so I can enjoy my husband,’ remarked one commenter.
Meanwhile, others pointed out the pressures that such expectations can place on workers who are often underpaid and undervalued.
‘They will say all this but then still only pay their employees $2.50 an hour,’ claimed one person.
‘You should not put that pressure on low-wage workers,’ said someone else.
Despite these differing opinions, the video has sparked a much-needed conversation about the state of the hospitality industry. It’s a reminder that at the heart of every successful restaurant is not just the food, but the people who serve it and the atmosphere they create.
It’s a call to action for restaurateurs and staff alike to reignite the passion and showmanship that can turn even the most simple night out into an unforgettable experience.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this fiery speech and the current state of hospitality. Do you think the industry has lost touch with the art of service, or is this restaurateur’s approach exactly what’s needed to bring back the magic? Discuss this with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: Cooking up peace: Jamie Oliver shares how he patched feuds with fellow chefs
