Ask your customers

I usually avoid chain restaurants, especially for cuisines that are best done by mom and pop operations. Local chains can be an exception and a regional chain of burger shops, out of DC is my current fave for a burger and fries. But places like the Olive Garden or any chain pizza joint will never see me in 'em. Feh!

An exception is Buca di Beppo, a chain out of Minneapolis that serves above-average Italian food and has a terrific, fun and LOUD ambiance; ideal for large family gatherings.

I was impressed to receive this e-mail from them last night. (Of course I signed up to be a Consultivo. Why the hell not?) though I sure wish it had been signed by Chef Guiseppe or Baccigalu, rather than by Jim Macchitelli, the marketing VP.

Oh well, at least he's Italian.

Here's the text of the above e-mail:
Ciao Richard,

I would like to invite you to be a part of the official
Buca di Beppo Council di Consultivo. This is the advisory
panel mentioned in our survey this past February. We are
currently putting the Council together and would like to
make sure you are still interested in joining us.

As a Consultivo you may be asked to try new dishes in our
restaurants, provide feedback on food and beverage items via
short surveys or share a meal and conversation with members
of our Buca famiglia. There are no specific requirements to
join, but my hope is that you will be willing to give us your
honest, constructive opinion so that we can serve you better.

Whether you are a frequent guest or someone who comes in only
occasionally, we are interested in hearing your feedback. The
amount and type of requests we send out will vary by location,
and participation will always be optional.

Thank you for your interest in helping us improve our guest
experience.

Grazie,

Jim Macchitelli
Vice President of Marketing
Buca di Beppo Restaurants