In this episode of the Hospitality Leadership Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting once again with Troy Hooper, who is now the U.S. CEO of Pepper Lunch.

Troy shared insights from his extensive 31-year journey in the hospitality industry, starting as a busser to becoming a chef and eventually taking on significant leadership roles.

We delved into the innovative Pepper Lunch concept, a Japanese experiential fast-casual restaurant known for its DIY teppanyaki, and we uncover what sets the brand apart, including the importance of authenticity, customer experience, and strategic, patient expansion over rapid growth.

02:10 Troy Hooper's Journey in the Hospitality Industry
04:13 The Birth and Growth of Pepper Lunch
06:04 The Unique Value Proposition of Pepper Lunch
11:36 The Strategy for Growth and Expansion
17:25 Maintaining Brand Identity and Culture
21:20 Challenges and Learnings in Leading Pepper Lunch
24:12 Embracing the Brand's Legacy
25:13 The Art of Selling and Passion
26:13 Authenticity and Franchise Partnerships
29:19 The Ideal Franchisee for Pepper Lunch
32:14 The Unique Appeal of Pepper Lunch
38:26 The Future Vision for Pepper Lunch
40:51 Book Recommendations for Success
43:47 Closing Remarks and Contact Information