Episode 600: People-First Hospitality in a Tech-Driven World with Or Peleg, Tel Aviv Restaurant Group

In this Restaurant Owners Uncorked episode, Wil speaks with Or Peleg of Tel Aviv Restaurant Group in Los Angeles about his journey from aspiring lawyer to restaurateur, his group’s six kosher restaurants, and the realities of running hospitality businesses in a challenging post-COVID LA environment. Or shares insights on balancing high service standards with rising labor costs, maintaining a people-first hospitality culture despite industry-wide tech and automation trends, and the importance of building lasting customer relationships. He emphasizes that while the restaurant business is tough and unpredictable, the joy of creating memorable guest experiences and fostering community keeps him motivated. Both discuss staffing challenges, the benefits of a weekly day off due to kosher practices, and the need for realistic expectations for anyone entering the industry.Key Takeaways: Or Pellig transitioned from aspiring lawyer to hospitality after discovering his love for creating memorable guest experiences. Tel Aviv Restaurant Group operates six kosher restaurants in LA’s San Fernando Valley, with a seventh opening soon. Kosher operations involve strict dietary laws, separation of meat and dairy, special inspections, and closure from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown. Closing on Saturdays, initially a concern, now provides essential rest and balance for the team. Post-COVID staffing challenges include higher turnover, rising wages (e.g., $20/hr at McDonald’s), and difficulty finding committed team members. The group invests in higher staffing levels to maintain personalized, hands-on service despite tech trends pushing toward self-ordering and automation. Exceptional service and experience—not just food quality—are key to customer loyalty in a competitive market. Or cautions would-be restaurateurs about the industry’s challenges, high failure rates, and the need for hands-on ownership. Hospitality work offers a unique career path for people from all backgrounds, rewarding hard work and guest care with growth opportunities. Owner presence, strong culture, and genuine gratitude toward loyal guests are essential for long-term success.