Team First: Inclusivity in Restaurant Culture

A discussion about prioritizing a safe + comfortable work environment, in the all-too-often toxic restaurant industry. How the recently founded Pomegranate Hospitality from James Beard-winning chef Alon Shaya was formed to foster opportunities for colleagues, partners, and friends in a comfortable and professional environment where cultural differences are celebrated. Efforts include a full-time Director of People & Culture, employee benefits, better hours (closed Mon + Tues), free access to counseling, employee-led lunch & learns, a system for sexual harassment from Erin Wade at Homeroom (Oakland, CA); and a code of conduct for guest chefs used by Ashley Christensen (Raleigh, NC).

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

photo of Alon Shaya
Alon Shaya

Pomegranate Hospitality

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