Anyone who has worked in the restaurant industry knows exactly how tiresome & seemingly never-ending closing up can be. You never know when the last person is going to leave, or how long the deep-fryer will take to clean this time. It doesn't help that the chefs are usually the only ones who get the glory and recognition either. The reality is that the hosts and waiters deserve that respect as much as the chef.

Travis Lett, chef & owner of Gjelina in Venice CA, recently wrote an article for Munchies about taking a step back and noting that his staff deserves more appreciation because they work just as much as he does. It shouldn't always be about the chef.

"I’m really close to my employees; it’s been a blessed experienced to work shoulder-to-shoulder with them every day [...] My restaurant is not really about me, and I’ve empowered my staff to do everything that I can do."

He isn't the only one expressing these sentiments either. Recently a popular tapas bar in Toronto decided to give their staff a little break as well. Next week, Bar Isabel will no longer be open on weekdays until 2am, instead closing at a reasonable 12am. They haven't eliminated all their late-night options though, you will still be able to enjoy a little late-night dish and drink on Fridays and Saturdays.

"Its not because we're not busy, it's not financial. The only reason why we're doing this is for the quality of life of our staff." - Grant van Gameren, chef and owner of Bar Isabel

So, hats off to those who are tuning into how hardworking their staff are and bringing their happiness into the equation.