Insight from ShoreBreak Pizza & Tap House and Hot Tuna on Building a Positive Work Environment
Ranked No. 4 in Top Workplaces 2026, ShoreBreak Pizza & Tap House and Hot Tuna garnered attention for their exceptional management practices. Partner and CEO Brett Kassir shared how they integrate their mission into the employee experience.
Infusing the Mission into Employee Experience
Kassir’s Approach:
- Their mission focuses on creating a neighborhood gathering place that serves exceptional, locally sourced food while giving back to the community.
- The emphasis is on creating a space where employees feel proud and comfortable sharing their workplace with loved ones.
- Management fosters a culture of respect, fairness, honesty, and transparency.
This environment encourages employees to take pride in their work, positively impacting guest experiences and promoting long-term retention.
Effective Team-Building Activities
Communication as a Foundation:
- Weekly all-employee meetings and daily pre-shift lineups are critical to maintaining open communication.
- These meetings provide a platform for all team members to share ideas regarding operations, menu development, and improvements.
Commitment to Well-being:
- Employees receive a complimentary gym membership and daily meals.
- Health insurance options and a 401(k) program are available, alongside free management training and financial wellness seminars.
- One-on-one support for employees facing financial challenges ensures that staff members’ financial health is prioritized.
Tips for Team-Building
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Listen to Your Employees:
- Foster a culture where staff can share insights for improvement.
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Maintain Transparency:
- Consistent communication builds trust and engagement.
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Invest in Personal Growth:
- Focus on developing employees holistically, not just in job-related skills.
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Value your Employees:
- Recognize them as invaluable assets, which fosters loyalty and commitment.
By following these principles, Brett Kassir’s leadership not only enhances the workplace culture at ShoreBreak and Hot Tuna but also enriches the experiences of both employees and customers.
