In this episode of The Ingredients, I’m joined by Yanan Zhou, the powerhouse General Manager behind Melbourne’s beloved Oriental Tea House. Yanan’s career began in hospitality as a teenager, and over the years, she’s moved through a variety of roles that have given her a deep, hands-on understanding of what makes a venue thrive. Today, she oversees multiple sites and continues to champion the belief that hospitality will never die — no matter the challenges it faces.

We dive into how she balances the operations of several venues while making sure each one keeps its own unique character, rather than blending into a “one size fits all” approach. Yanan also reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic as a moment that forced the industry to pause, take stock, and rebuild — exposing weaknesses but also unlocking opportunities for fresh ideas and stronger systems.

Our conversation covers everything from the importance of effective communication and structured team meetings to adapting marketing strategies for today’s fast-moving social media landscape. Yanan shares her insights on what it takes to keep teams engaged, customers coming back, and a business growing even in tough conditions.

At its heart, this episode is about resilience and a reminder that the experiences, connections, and memories created in hospitality venues can never be replaced.

Link to Oriental Tea House:

Website: Link

Instagram: Link

Subscribe to the 🥪Sandwich Press Newsletter: Link

Open Pantry Co. Website: Link

Open Pantry Co. Instagram: Link

Open Pantry Co. YouTube: Link

Open Pantry Co. LinkedIn: Link

This podcast episode elucidates the journey of a small business owner who has successfully established a vibrant venue within the hospitality sector.

Alex Gavioli is a very experienced and successful owner of two of the best venues in Melbourne: Don's in Prahran & Cordelia in Carlton.

Alex shares insights on how his initial vision for the venue evolved into a thriving community hub that resonates with both younger and older generations alike. Furthermore, we delve into the significance of fostering a positive work culture and the necessity of ensuring safety and inclusivity within the hospitality environment.

The episode concludes with a forward-looking perspective, contemplating the future of the industry and the importance of genuine connection among all stakeholders.

Takeaways:

• The discussion elucidates the significant challenges inherent in cafe hospitality, which demands high service expectations at early hours.
• The podcast highlights the importance of adaptability within the hospitality sector, particularly with respect to menu offerings and staff dynamics.
• A salient point raised pertains to the critical nature of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all employees in the hospitality industry.
• The speakers emphasise the impact of social media on venue visibility and the necessity of maintaining an authentic customer experience.
• The conversation underscores the evolving nature of customer expectations and the vital role of leadership in fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Lastly, the episode reflects on the necessity of continuous innovation to remain relevant in the competitive landscape of hospitality.

Find out all about Open Pantry Co. on the link here