Danny Meyer

Danny Meyer is a prominent figure in the restaurant industry, known for his innovative approach to hospitality and his role as the founder of Hospitality Quotient (HQ). He has been instrumental in shaping the dining landscape through his various ventures, including the Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) and Shake Shack.

Background and Career

Founder of Hospitality Quotient:
Meyer established Hospitality Quotient in 2011 as part of USHG, which he founded in 1985. HQ focuses on training individuals and organizations in the principles of "enlightened hospitality," a concept he elaborates on in his book Setting the Table .12 The goal of HQ is to extend the benefits of exceptional hospitality beyond restaurants, influencing various sectors such as healthcare and technology .1

Union Square Hospitality Group:
Under Meyer's leadership, USHG has launched several acclaimed restaurants, including Union Square Cafe and Gramercy Tavern. The group has also diversified into catering and strategic investments through Enlightened Hospitality Investments .23

Shake Shack:
Meyer is also the founder of Shake Shack, which began as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park and has grown into a global fast-casual restaurant chain known for its burgers and shakes .23

Philosophy: The Hospitality Quotient

Meyer’s hiring philosophy centers around the concept of Hospitality Quotient (HQ), which emphasizes emotional intelligence over technical skills. He identifies six key traits that constitute a high HQ:

1. Kindness and Optimism
2. Curious Intelligence
3. Strong Work Ethic
4. Empathy
5. Self-Awareness
6. Integrity

These traits are deemed essential for creating a positive workplace culture that ultimately enhances customer experiences .34 Meyer believes that how employees make others feel is just as important as the food they serve .4

Recent Developments

In 2024, Meyer announced the launch of HQ+, an e-learning platform aimed at making his hospitality training accessible to a broader audience, with customizable options for different organizations .1 This initiative reflects his commitment to spreading the principles of enlightened hospitality across various industries.

Meyer’s contributions to the restaurant industry have earned him numerous accolades, including awards from the James Beard Foundation and recognition as one of America's best restaurateurs .23 His influence continues to grow as he explores new avenues for applying his hospitality philosophy beyond traditional dining environments.