Brady Viccellio and Alvin Williams have been friends for a long time, and they’ve been in the restaurant business even longer. Brady’s family history in restaurants goes back nearly a century, and he’s the owner of Steinhilber’s and La Bella Italia in Virginia Beach. Alvin trained and worked as a chef in his native England before moving to the United States and opening Cobalt Grille, also in Virginia Beach. Their podcast, The Check, is all about restaurants.
See more at thecheckpodcast.com, including pictures, helpful links, and episode transcripts.
Dwayne Appleton, owner of Java Surf Cafe and Espresso Bar, shares the ins and outs of running his business in the heart of Virginia Beach’s colorful ViBe District. Appleton discusses lessons learned, secrets to success, and the art of achieving a work-life balance.
Alvin and Brady welcome back longtime Steinhilber’s waiter Thom Violette, who reflects on the challenges of the pandemic and what might lie ahead as short-staffed restaurants prepare for a busy summer season. Thom also talks about his recent marriage and getting to ride in a hot-air balloon.
New guidance about masks is changing the restaurant experience, while Alvin and Brady try to sort out what it all means. They also discuss the challenges of hiring staff and some of the menu modifications they're having to make as a result. Plus, Alvin’s new hobby.
Chris Savvides is the second-generation owner of Black Angus restaurant in Virginia Beach. He's also a tireless advocate for the restaurant industry. Currently a member of the board of the National Restaurant Association, he talks with Alvin and Brady about issues that threaten to end the dining experience as we know it.
Kevin O’Connor, founder of O’Connor Brewing Co., visited The Check podcast to discuss the origins and growth of the brewery, the story behind his popular El Guapo beer, the magic of the tasting room, and how to avoid disaster if you’re brewing your own beer.
With the holiday season upon us, Brady and Alvin look at how gatherings at restaurants will be different this year and discuss their favorite seasonal foods and beverages. They also look ahead with tips for avoiding a broken heart on Valentine’s Day and explore the ups and downs of Yelp.
Inspired by her Mississippi roots, Jodi Moore Newland is serving up traditional Southern food at Sweetwater Cuisine, which combines event planning and catering, ready-to-heat carryout meals, and a restaurant. She's also the founder of a non-profit called Daniel’s Grace in memory of her late husband that supports families who've been affected by cancer.
Donald Struminger and son David are the second and third generations of a family business that's been operating since 1934. While you might not give much thought to the tablecloth and napkins at your favorite restaurant, this episode will give you a new appreciation for the history and the innovation that underlie these integral aspects of many fine-dining experiences.
Alvin and Brady discuss the impact of elections and other major events on their restaurants and give their new lightning round a test run.
Brady and Alvin reflect on their childhoods, educations, influences and long history in the restaurant business, while also assessing present-day challenges and looking ahead to what might be next for restaurants.
