As a way to keep up with Kissimmee restaurants and restaurants in Orlando (and the industry in general), I came across an article by David Flaherty, the Beer & Spirits Director at Hearth Restaurant and the Terroir wine bars in New York. He listed 5 elements of a profitable beverage program. This got my attention, since one of the reasons for success at Capone’s Dinner & Show has been in part due to the beverage program.

What are the 5 elements? Would Capone’s meet the elements an expert would deem neccessary for success? Here are the points he shared in his article:

1. 1. 1. A great team
      2. Balance
      3. A moving target
      4. Systems
      5. Competition

I’m happy to report Capone’s Dinner & Show is a perfect match for his recipe. Here are the reasons, and the way I see it:

Number 1 – A great team. CHECK! Capone’s strong staff is evident by the number of servers that have worked here year after year. These mobsters are confident, well-trained and thoroughly educated in the beverages served every evening at this Orlando attraction. Their enthusiasm and passion shine with each guest served. As the Danny Meyer philosophy states “Put your employees first. If they are motivated, inspired and confident, the bottom line takes care of itself.”

Number 2 – Balance. CHECK! If you sneak up to the Four Deuces Lounge, Capone’s Dinner & Show’s pre-show bar, the items stocked there are definitely linked to the speakeasy concept and create plenty of balance for the bar. The skilled beverage professionals have put together a selection of products that span a wide range of the guests’ preferences. Although there a not hundreds of types of drinks served, the beverage menu covers guests’ need quite efficiently.

Number 3 – A moving target. CHECK! No, he isn’t talking about taking out a guest with one of the Tommy Guns during the hilarious show! A good beverage program needs to be moving through the majority of its product regularly.  No problem with that. Unlimited drinks is not only a good value for guests at Capone’s, it also keeps the stock moving.

Number 4 – Systems. CHECK! How the equipment and beverages are organized is vital to a successful beverage program. Big Al runs a tight ship, and the staff at Capone’s Dinner & Show will not over pour drinks or serve sloppy cocktails. Like a well-oiled machine, the bar service runs great. Very seldom do you have to wait and wait for a drink.

Number 5 – Competition. CHECK! One of the reasons the drink menu is so extensive (when compared to other dinner shows) at Capone’s is due to evaluating the competition. No other Orlando dinner shows offers as many beverages (free of charge) included in the ticket. The drink menu lists over 15 different beverages. Some experimentation has been done over the years, adding products and changing it up some. I think it is a pretty good formula.

Now that you’ve read what an expert thinks is key to a successful beverage program, feel free to comment. What drinks would you like to see offered at Capone’s Dinner & Show? What did you think about your beverage service? Along with Capone’s spectacular dinner buffet and half-price tickets, this dinner show is definitely something you should CHECK off your list of fun things to do in Orlando!

Last Updated on January 19, 2018