Episode 1 : Building Sustainable Restaurant Systems

Episode Summary In this candid conversation, Chef Waymond Wesley II (Chef Way), a chef influencer and soon-to-be restaurant operator, speaks with Susan Tung, owner of Hanoi House, a Vietnamese restaurant in Peterborough, Ontario. They discuss growing up in the restaurant industry, transitioning from traditional family operations to modern restaurant management, balancing work and family life, and the importance of systems, personnel management, and financial awareness in running a successful restaurant. Key Topics Discussed: Susan's experience growing up as a "restaurant kid" in her family's Chinese restaurant, The Golden Wheel The transition from traditional family restaurant operations to modern, systems-based management The importance of documentation, standardized recipes, and proper training Financial management and knowing your numbers as a restaurant owner Creating a positive workplace culture and hiring for values rather than just experience Balancing restaurant ownership with family life and parenting The challenges and rewards of the restaurant industry Guest Information Susan Tung is a restaurateur with years of experience in the food and beverage industry. She currently owns Hanoi House, a Vietnamese restaurant, and previously owned a Japanese restaurant. Susan also runs Electric City Catering and hosts the Table 13 podcast. Follow her on Instagram at @susantung. Host Information Chef Waymond Wesley II (Chef Way) is a chef influencer, lawyer, and first-time restaurant operator preparing to open a restaurant in 2026. He specializes in techniques combining Japanese, Italian, and French culinary traditions. Follow him on Instagram at @chefway__ and @chefsquirehospitality, or visit his website at Chapters (00:00:01) - "Chef Way"(00:00:20) - Talking Business in the Oil Industry(00:00:57) - The Importance of Restaurants for Kids(00:04:11) - Ontario chef and owner of Hanoi House talks about his(00:09:27) - In the Elevator With Mom and Pop(00:13:47) - Tony Bennet on Starting a Restaurant in Texas(00:20:04) - How I Hire: Values and Character(00:25:41) - The Challenges of Leading a Chef(00:27:26) - Pop-Up Cooking(00:30:14) - How Married People Manage Their Worklife(00:33:47) - Have You Encouraged Your Kids to Open Restaurants?(00:35:15) - How to Manage a Bar and Club(00:41:04) - Do You Consult for Other Businesses?(00:42:17) - Chef Lorraine on Finding Her Voice(00:48:26) - How do you manage paying and motivating your employees?(00:51:30) - Best Selling Dish at Your Restaurant(00:53:28) - Top Restaurant Operators Speak