Episode 31: Alex Brennan-Martin

The Brennan family has created one of the most respected restaurant dynasties in America, with concepts including the famous Commander’s Palace in New Orleans. Alex Brennan-Martin grew up in that world, working in the back and front of the house, the front office, and on the front line. Today, he is regarded as an expert on all facets of the restaurant business.
 
In this episode, Alex shares his views on legacy dining and how tradition has risen to meet and satisfy the guest experience demanded by today’s dining public. He explains how he has helped his family’s acclaimed fine-dining brands both leverage their guest loyalty and remain relevant post-pandemic by combining high tech with high touch. 
 
Alex also discusses how his family continues to be able to attract high-quality staff in the current labor shortage. Finding and recruiting top talent is part of the Brennan family’s proud tradition, with staff alumni such as Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme who passed through their kitchens on the way to their own celebrity.
 
While so much focus today is on restaurant delivery and takeout, Alex believes "there will always be a demand for fine dining," adding, "holidays and family events require a working culture that is more than serving guests. We are in the business of making memories.”
 
The pandemic is simply one more challenge the Brennan family has met and overcome. Brennan’s Houston has survived hurricanes and a devastating fire. Alex has been pivoting long before it became a buzzword, most recently adapting his family’s brands to takeout and retail grocery distribution.
 
If you need a shot of inspiration on the power of a great brand, commitment to quality, and wisdom that only comes with experience and tenacity, please tune in. The Brennan legacy is showing no signs of slowing down and Alex looks forward to many more years of making memories.