Why fireplaces are vital for La Madeleine

Why is La Madeleine adding more fireplaces? This week’s episode of the Restaurant Business podcast A Deeper Dive features John Dillon, CEO of the Dallas-based fast-casual chain La Madeleine. This is the last in our series of podcast episodes recorded during the National Restaurant Show in May. La Madeleine operates 91 locations, mostly across the South. Dillion was named CEO of the chain earlier this year.He talks about the need for more hospitality and in-store business in the restaurants, which is increasingly vital these days. That’s why the company has decided to ensure all new restaurants have fireplaces. We talk about Dillon’s history with the brand, his reaction when he got the job, the music in the dining room and the French lessons in the bathroom. We also talk about value and numerous other topics.We’re talking French lessons on A Deeper Dive so please check it out.