Tiki Taco a “Hometown Hero” Scaling Up
In this episode of Hospitality Hangout, Michael Schatzberg, “The Restaurant Guy,” and Jimmy Frischling, “The Finance Guy,” sit down with Eric Knott CEO of Tiki Taco.
Eric’s roll as CEO of Tiki Taco shows how a clear vision, intentional technology, and community-first leadership can set the stage for growth while preserving the heart of a brand. Tiki Taco’s story is an inspiration to other operators looking to balance innovation with authenticity.
Key Takeaways:
• Eric discusses his focus on creating a balanced tech stack to solve real-world challenges for guests, team members, and executive leadership.
• Eric talks about the pros and cons of integrated solutions versus all-in-one systems.
• Tiki Taco prepares to expand from its three Kansas City locations (plus a food truck), Eric talks about the importance of staying true to the brand's identity as a “taste of home.”
• Tiki Tacos support to local schools, churches, and organizations with donations and sponsorships. Eric believes the key to sustainable growth is building a strong, community-oriented culture that can be replicated in new markets.
• Tiki Taco plans to add four to five new locations in the home market next year.
• The KISS Principle: Keep It Simple, Stay True
• Eric reflects on the importance of staying consistent with the core elements of a restaurant –
great food, great service, and a cool atmosphere.
• Eric asks Schatzy and Jimmy, “What advice would you give a CEO of an emerging restaurant brand?”
Schatzy, Jimmy, and Eric deliver laughs, surprises, and sharp insights into the ever-evolving world of hospitality and tech through games like “Tech Time Warp,” “Talking Back,” “Hot or Not,” and “Branded Quick Fire.”
Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs
Episode Credits:
- Produced by: Branded Hospitality Media
- Hosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy Frischling
- Producer: Julie Zucker
- Creative Director: Adam Levine
- Show Runner: Drewe Raimi
- Post Production: Three Cheers Creative
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