Nestled in New Orleans’ beloved Garden District, Shaya has earned its spot as a go-to destination for both locals and visitors. Known for its trailblazing, modern Levantine cuisine and warm hospitality, this restaurant is proof that food is only part of the dining experience.
We recently sat down with Maria Zissis, Shaya’s brand director to uncover how they balance tradition with innovation while staying true to their mission: to offer an unforgettable experience every time. From leadership philosophies to tech-savvy strategies, here’s what makes Shaya so special.
A culture of care
“Hospitality is in our DNA,” says Zissis. From the moment a guest walks through the door, the Shaya team is laser-focused on making every interaction meaningful.
“It starts with us as leaders,” Zissis explains. “We set the tone, encouraging kindness and maintaining high standards, all while fostering a supportive and flexible environment.”
This people-first philosophy extends to their team culture, where employees are encouraged to grow and view hospitality as a long-term career. It’s not just about great service at Shaya, it’s about building a workplace where everyone thrives and belongs.
Every detail matters
Shaya’s success lies in its attention to detail. From accommodating dietary needs to remembering special occasions and beyond, it’s the little things that make a big difference.
“OpenTable has been instrumental in helping us achieve that level of personalization,” Zissis says. “Features like dietary and seating preferences allow us to tailor the experience, even on our busiest nights.”
So how do they stand out in a city known for its exceptional hospitality? By leveraging guest data efficiently, Shaya is able to stay ahead of the curve and ensure every diner feels cared for and valued.
Tech meets tradition
While Shaya embraces a modern, tech-forward approach, it’s never at the expense of the human touch. The team uses tech to enhance their operations without taking away from the warmth and personalization that define their service style.
“From managing covers per hour to learning new features, OpenTable helps us make better decisions for our operations,” says Zissis. “It’s intuitive, seamless, and foolproof.”
Learning from feedback
Every restaurant has its challenges, and for Shaya, clear communication is a priority. Their approach? Treat feedback as an opportunity to improve. With OpenTable’s built-in review system, they’re able to turn constructive criticism into actionable improvements.
“Responding to reviews efficiently helps us address issues and even turn around non-five-star ratings,” Zissis says. “It’s all about learning, adapting, and continuing to elevate the guest experience.”
More than just a meal
Whether it’s the marinated chicken thighs served over tahini-based hummus or the legendary Baba Ganoush, Shaya’s dishes are undeniably magical. But it’s the restaurant’s combination of hospitality, community, and innovation that truly sets it apart.
“You can have mediocre food and still create a wonderful experience,” says Zissis. “But when you pair excellent food with excellent hospitality, that’s when the magic happens.”
