The Importance of Fireplaces in La Madeleine Explained
In a bid to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, fast-casual chain La Madeleine, based in Dallas, is adding fireplaces to their new restaurants. This move is aimed at providing a homelike, welcoming feeling, typically associated with full-service restaurants, while maintaining their quick service ethos.
The strategy to focus on ambiance and comfort is a strategic differentiator for La Madeleine in the fast-casual market. John Dillon, the CEO of La Madeleine, emphasised the importance of hospitality and in-store business in a recent episode of the A Deeper Dive podcast, a part of Restaurant Business.
Hosted by a longtime industry journalist, the A Deeper Dive podcast covers various topics, including value, hospitality, in-store business, and the economy. The podcast episode featuring John Dillon was titled A Deeper Dive and was the last in a series recorded during the National Restaurant Show, which took place in May.
La Madeleine, with 91 locations primarily in the South, is known for its French-inspired menu and unique dining experience. In addition to the fireplaces, the bathrooms of their restaurants offer French lessons, another interesting feature highlighted in the A Deeper Dive podcast.
Music is also a topic of discussion in the dining rooms of La Madeleine's restaurants, as per the podcast. By focusing on these elements, La Madeleine aims to create an environment that encourages guests to stay longer and enjoy a relaxed dining experience, potentially boosting repeat visits and sales.
For those interested in the restaurant industry, becoming a Restaurant Business member unlocks exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of their content. To catch up on the latest episodes of A Deeper Dive, the podcast is available for subscription on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
[1] Source: Restaurant Business [5] Source: A Deeper Dive podcast episode titled A Deeper Dive
- John Dillon, the CEO of La Madeleine, discussed their approach to elevate the dining experience through focus on ambiance, hospitality, and in-store business on the A Deeper Dive podcast, which is part of Restaurant Business.
- To further enhance the dining experience, La Madeleine also incorporates fashion-and-beauty elements, such as French lessons in their bathrooms, and considers lifestyle factors, like music selection, to create a comfortable, home-and-garden like atmosphere that promotes extended stays and potentially increases sales.
