Could Your Assistant Manager Run the Restaurant Without You?

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Plus: Could welcoming dogs bring more local customers through your doors?

Chris Towland

Jul 16, 2026

From Chris Towland

Hi,

Welcome to the latest issue of Restaurant Owner Intel.

Running a restaurant often means getting pulled in every direction. The challenge isn't just working hard - it's making sure your business can grow without depending on you for every decision, while staying alert to opportunities your competitors may be overlooking.

In this edition, we're looking at two very different ways to strengthen your restaurant. First, why developing your assistant manager could free up your time while improving day-to-day performance. Then, we explore whether becoming dog-friendly could help attract more local customers and increase foot traffic if it's the right fit for your business.

I hope you find something here you can put into action this week.

Enjoy the read.

Chris

Featured Articles

Why Your Assistant Manager Should Be Running More of Your Restaurant

Many restaurant owners treat their assistant manager as little more than a backup pair of hands — someone who locks up, counts stock and fills gaps.

But a well-developed assistant manager can directly improve your bottom line.

When properly trained, they can control labour costs, reduce waste, handle supplier orders, resolve customer complaints and lead your team with confidence — all without you being involved.

The key is pairing structured training with real authority. Responsibility without decision-making power creates frustration and constant interruptions.

Start by delegating one task — a weekly food order, the morning prep meeting or next week's rota. Review the results together, offer feedback, then build from there.

Ask yourself honestly: could your assistant manager run a full shift without you? If the answer is no, that's your next opportunity.

The strongest restaurants aren't built by owners working harder — they're built by owners who develop stronger leaders around them.

When a dog owner stops for lunch mid-walk, they instinctively choose the restaurant that clearly welcomes their pet — not the one that leaves them guessing.

With 83% of pet owners treating their dogs like family, that four-legged companion now influences where people eat, shop, and spend their time.

For restaurants with outdoor seating near parks, walking trails, or residential areas, going dog-friendly can drive real local foot traffic — turning occasional visitors into weekly regulars.

But it requires more than a handwritten sign. Check local health regulations first, since rules on outdoor pet access vary widely by location. Then establish a clear policy — dogs leashed, on the floor, owners responsible for behaviour.

Simple additions like water bowls, shaded seating, and waste bags signal that the welcome is intentional, not accidental.

Update your Google Business Profile and social media, and measure results over four weeks before scaling up — because the real goal is profitable, manageable business, not just a few cute photos.