It was my birthday last week. I decided I wanted to celebrate with my family at a fun breakfast in Bondi before the day got busy with school and work.
So, we decided we would go to a French crepe place called Crêpes Aubras.
For the last few years, we’ve walked past this little French crepe place every time we go to the beach (which is often). Before last week, we’d never been there. Not for any particular reason; it’s just that we tend to make yummy breakfasts at home, and we are spoilt for choice when it comes to breakfast cafes where we live.
My family had given me a “birthday” headband to wear, so when we walked through the doors at the 7 a.m. opening time, it was obvious what day it was.
The female staff member immediately wished me a happy birthday, welcomed us all, and we found ourselves a table for five.
At the same time, a group of men were gathering at another table, left items behind, and went off for a swim. They seemed like regular customers, right at home with their morning ritual.
We ordered our crepes; I opened my presents, and we took some fun photos. Unbeknown to me, the female staff member had discretely checked which order was mine with my wife so she could add a birthday candle to my crepe. Our crepes all came out at the same time – mine last with the candle lit so my family could sing me happy birthday.
The crepes were delicious.
The female staff member brought us each a glass of water (eating sweet crepes is a thirsty business).
The men returned from their swim, ordered their coffees, and sat down to their morning ritual together while she effortlessly made them beautifully presented coffees.
Several different customers came in while we were there to order takeaway crepes and coffees. They were served quickly and effortlessly – all by the one staff member.
We walked away all saying that we needed to find an excuse to come back soon – and we will.
We didn’t have a booking. We arrived right on opening time. There was only one staff member on. We didn’t have very long before we had to leave to get the kids to school. There was a lot that could have gone wrong.
However, we were welcomed warmly and beautifully taken care of – the little birthday touches unprompted were lovely. The crepes were delicious, and nothing was too much trouble. Everything went just right.
There’s no denying business is hard at the moment, particularly in both hospitality and retail. But never underestimate how powerful being great at service is.
What this female staff member did was super simple and did not cost her anything extra. She acknowledged us, personalised the service, and showed that she cared. She prepared and delivered a quality product.
Small, simple things that engaged us. We will be going back and will tell others about Crêpes Aubras. I have no doubt they will continue to build loyal customers just like the group of men who were obvious regulars – no doubt we’ll see them there again next time.
