Meraki: Brad Emendorfer
Meraki Series: Meraki is a word that is often used to describe what it means to do something with passion, with absolute devotion, and with undivided attention. It’s the feeling when you love doing something, anything, so much that you put something of yourself into it. So, we’ve dedicated this series to those who live out that meaning, and we ask them how.
Today we are excited to introduce you to our Chattanooga market Franchisee, Brad Emendorfer! Brad’s locations are located in Chattanooga on Market Street, on Gunbarrel Road, and in Cleveland, TN. Learn his story and what makes his locations unique below.
How long have you been in the hospitality industry?
My first job in hospitality was in 2005, I was the dining room manager at the Italian Market & Grill which is an upscale Italian Restaurant in Knoxville TN. This was one of the concepts in my Father’s business, which included 5 independent restaurants and 2 Shoney’s franchise units. From this position, I learned the kitchen systems of the Shoney’s brand and then moved to Cleveland, TN to open a casual dining Italian restaurant in 2008. From 2009-2010 I was the Director of Operations overseeing 5 stores for the company.
When did you franchise your first Taziki’s location?
My partner, Zach Peagler, and I opened our first Taziki’s location in June of 2011 at 432 Market St. in Downtown Chattanooga. This was the 13th Taziki’s in the system.
What is something unique about your stores?
I always say that our team is what is most unique. This is something that we take great pride in because there is a true family within our team that makes us special. The Chattanooga Taziki’s family is something that I will forever be most proud of in my career. Many of these family members have moved on to other careers, and many have been with us for years, but the relationships have never wavered.
What inspired you about the Taziki’s brand that made you decide to franchise location?
The family culture that Keith and Amy created was something that stood out from the beginning. That combined with the systems put in place as a resource for managing operations were things that set Taziki’s apart from anything I had seen before.
What is your favorite item on the Taziki’s menu?
The Turkey Club Gyro with Pasta Salad has always been my favorite. It is a family favorite for my two boys as well. Anytime I place an order for our family we must ask how much turkey is prepped to make sure we do not wipe out the store!
If you had a piece of advice to offer someone who is interested in franchising, what would you tell them?
Make sure you understand restaurant operations, learn about the Taziki’s brand strengths, and most importantly that you have a group of people with passion for success and a leader who is passionate about what they are doing. It's all about your team and the leaders.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that people might not know!
My wife Kristi and I have 3 children, John (15), George (13), and Mae (10). Being a father is what I am most proud of. Another fun fact is that I wanted to be a professional athlete my whole life and retired as a sports broadcaster. I went to Clemson University and got my education in Communications to prepare for broadcasting. Then things changed, but I still like to get behind a microphone from time to time.
Thank you Brad and the entire Chattanooga team for sharing your story. Your passion and hard work make the Taziki’s brand what it is today! If you are in the area, find your nearest location here.
