Conceptually, Duffified Live is about always saying yes to life’s experiences. For the past several years now, Chef Brian Duffy has been learning to never say no, and he’s convinced his life is better because of it. At its core, though, this informative and entertaining podcast is about sharing the things Chef Duffy has learned throughout his journey as a chef, industry expert and well-known personality. You don’t need to work in a bar, nightclub or restaurant to appreciate Duffy’s new podcast; if you love bars and restaurants, you’ll love listening.
Let’s take a look at the third episode of the first four podcasts of Duffified Live, without giving too much away.
Episode III
First things first: this episode starts off by giving you a glimpse of what it’s like to spend a night out with Duffy. Listeners get to listen to him a friend talking to their Uber driver after a couple, two, three cocktails. You then learn about Duffy’s over-the-top industry night at Flying Fish Crafthouse in Brewerytown, PA. Duffy had a few guidelines when it came to how he wanted this promotion to be executed: make it crazy, make it awesome, make it everything and more. I’m not going to give away too much here – you’ll have to listen for the details. All I’ll say is his industry night involves what has become the standard – food and drink specials along with giveaways – but also tattoos, fire, spinning, hooping, DJs, swords, and much more.
The third segment of this episode is Duffy’s conversation with Chef Nick Liberato, owner of The Venice Whaler in Venice, CA. Chef Nicky is known for many things, such as being an incredible chef and his role as a mentor and spiritual guru. But two things he’s known for that will be most relevant to restaurant operators or bar operators with food programs are that he spares no expense when it comes to the ingredients he uses, and he doesn’t spare any technique. There is a lot of valuable information to be had for those willing to sift through this in-depth but entertaining conversation between two friends.
Here are some of the key takeaways that will serve you well:
- Everything on your menu should have a story.
- Equally as important, your menu should have at least a few items that truly reflect the community and environment in which you operate. That isn’t limited to food; your drink menu can certainly benefit from the same approach.
- Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wow your guests and community with ethnic ingredients, food items and drinks that may not be familiar to them. Embrace global influences as long as they make sense for your concept and stay true to your brand and don’t force guests to step too far outside of their comfort zones.
- Traveling will help you elevate your brand and menus.
- Bánh mì sandwiches seem to becoming a hot food trend. Chef Nicky is the second chef in a row featured on Duffified Live to put them on his menu.
- Looking for a fryer to cook up your tavern bites? Duffy tells Chef Nicky about the Perfect Fry in this episode, a fryer that is economical with a small countertop footprint that requires no overhead ventilation and features a built-in fire suppression system. You’ll be able to see them in action at the 2017 Nightclub & Bar Show inside the F&B Innovation Center.
Perhaps the most important point made by Chef Nicky is that this business is tough and all-consuming. You need to devote time to your family (first and foremost), your friends, and your hobbies. Your passion for the business or specific aspects of the business shouldn’t overshadow your love for your family. And you should make time to, as Chef Nicky puts it, “find your stoke.” For him, that’s surfing and snowboarding (and I’d say traveling, as well). For your own mental, spiritual and physical sake – and the sake of your family and staff – don’t turn your back on your passions outside of your business.
Chef Duffy and a select group of fantastic chefs and culinary experts (including Chef Nick Liberato) are at the 2017 Nightclub & Bar Conference and Trade Show, heading up the F&B Innovation Center. You don't want to miss this experience!
Adult Language Disclaimer:
While I feel as though this disclaimer shouldn’t be necessary, this podcast often times features a healthy sprinkling of adult language. We do, after all, work and spend time in adult venues with adults in them, being all adulty and stuff. You have been warned.