Monday, July 26, 2010

Are You The Real Deal?

While vacationing recently in Wisconsin's Northwoods, we headed out on our annual trek to dine in one of the area's infamous "supper clubs". For those unfamiliar to just what exactly a "supper club" is, let me clarify. A supper club serves supper. And cocktails. And usually sports a sign at the entrance reminiscent of an early 60's motif, that many times features a martini. On Fridays, a fish fry is served. I couldn't wait.

We decided on a place called "The Red Man". Not much to look at, but the parking lot was full. Always a good sign on a Friday night. The inside wasn't real chic either, but it was full of people. Tables were free of cloth, and of the kind you drag out when you have extended family arrive for Thanksgiving. Each place setting featured a paper place mat and a large plastic bowl. The hostess took our names, and said, "OK. It's going to be about 30 minutes. I want you to get a drink and go out on the back patio and I will come get you when your table is ready." So. we did what she said.

After 25 minutes, the hostess stuck her head out the door and said, "Come on, your table is ready!" and we were seated. The bread came with the customary breadsticks and horseradish cheese. Delicious. Then came the salad. We could barely lift it. Bounty at its best.



A definite Red Man signature. The whole meal was fabulous. Our waitress Terri, was attentive, in charge, and kept the food coming.

My husband looked at me and said, "The place isn't much to look at, but it sure is the real deal." And it was.

So other than fond vacation memories, what's the point?
Here's the thing - The Red Man didn't have an outstanding entrance, lovely interior appointments or even cloth linens. Yet, the place was packed and our impression was positive. The Red Man visually under-promised and then over-delivered. It's like that one community in your neighborhood that you can't quite figure out. Not real glamourous, no over the top amenities, but everything is clean, friendly, and they're always full and raising rents. Simplistic, honest and committed to delivering the way the residents like it. The real deal.

If your community is an under-performer in the looks department, find a way to wow (What's your signature salad?) and focus on delivering consistently and excellently.