Go In With A Game Plan
by Kelvin Dooley
Opinions expressed in this articles do not necessarily represent the point of view of Best Served. In furtherance of bringing more voices to the table, we are committed to sharing varied thinking throughout the industry.
We are J&K Style Grill Home of the Original Waffle burger, stuffed wings, and eggrolls. We are in Virginia Beach and our slogan is “You can copy our style but never our respect.” With close to 30 years in the food service industry it has taught technique, safety, and management. With a combined 45 years of military experience, we have the mindset: Always Win, Always Learn and Never Lose.
Staying true to your mindset consists of always following the book. The book explains your purpose, mission, and should describe your why. What are your goals? What is your vision? What is your story? Always stay true and on that path. Create a business plan of knowing what you are willing to risk and what is your strategy for accomplishing your mission. Our mission is broken down to a game plan, or the instructions for the day.
The game plan is a detailed list of what is needed to accomplish that day’s tasks. It should be so simple anyone can look and follow along. Even a 5-year-old should be able to understand. Our “Instructions” or game plan is job or gig specific. First, it lists the sales from the previous year, and projected sales for the gig. This can influence inventory, what to expect, and labor. Secondly, the game plan lists beginning and ending food inventory. So, you can keep track of food used and waste. Our game plan also lists what prep needs to be done, holding time, and temperatures. This inventory also helps knowing what is popular at a particular location which will aid in revising your menu. Finally, our game plan addresses the people. There is a list of duties and responsibilities for everyone on the truck. So, everyone onboard knows their role and responsibilities.
Our game plan sets us up for success so we can have confidence of the Always Win, Never Lose mindset.
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Families thrive on tradition which yields a legacy to be left for future generations. Restaurant owners help to create that legacy for their families and communities by opening new businesses. 7shifts is born out of Jordan Boesch’s relationship with his father, and the time they spent working together in his father’s restaurant. It is because of this deep commitment to family and legacy Best Served is motivated to partner with 7Shifts, underwriter of Best Served New.
Kelvin Dooley J&K Style Grill is owner and operater of a restaurant in Virginia Beach. He and his family also operates a food truck that is licensed in seven cities in the Hampton Roads area. He contributes his experiences to being a cook for the Army for 25 years. As well as General Manager for several large chain restaurants. He operates the business with his wife LaTonya and youngest daughter Keona.
