One of the standout books of 2023, Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara (Optimism Press, 2022), offers insights that extend beyond the culinary world. While seemingly tailored for business students or hospitality professionals, its themes resonate even within the realm of Christian ministry, prompting a deeper reflection on service, experience, and faith.
Unreasonable Hospitality is a blend of memoir and practical guidance. Will Guidara, the former front-of-house leader at Eleven Madison Park (EMP) in New York City, recounts his journey alongside business partner and head chef Daniel Humm, as they propelled EMP to the pinnacle of the restaurant industry, earning the coveted title of the world’s #1 restaurant.
This book garnered attention through its appearance in an episode of The Bear (season 2, episode 7). The Bear revolves around Carmen, a talented chef who returns to Chicago after his brother’s passing to manage the family’s beef sandwich shop. The show follows Carmen’s efforts to transform the shop into a fine-dining establishment, while grappling with familial complexities and personal insecurities. While categorized as a comedy, The Bear delves into the challenges of a dysfunctional family and their impact on Carmen’s life.
In the referenced episode, Richie, Carmen’s cousin, initially obstructs Carmen’s vision, struggling to grasp its significance. Lacking perceived skills, Richie’s perspective shifts when Carmen sends him to intern (stage) at a renowned restaurant. Immersed in this environment, Richie discovers the transformative power of hospitality and his own aptitude for it. This pivotal moment features Richie engrossed in Unreasonable Hospitality. This inspired a purchase of the book, and it proved to be a worthwhile read.
Guidara’s book details his personal evolution within the dining industry and his unwavering dedication to providing exceptional hospitality to both his staff and patrons.
He observes that, in the past, affluent diners were satisfied with exceptional food, often tolerating indifferent service. Arrogant waiters and temperamental chefs were almost a part of the fine dining experience.
However, Guidara argues that societal expectations have shifted, influencing the hospitality industry. Today’s customers, he asserts, demand both an unforgettable experience and amazing food.
Unreasonable Hospitality presents intriguing questions for pastoral and church-related work. It underscores the importance of experiences in contemporary society and the need to connect with individuals on their own terms. It also poses the challenge of channeling this inherent desire for novel experiences towards the message of Jesus.
In an era where religion is often treated as a mere commodity, churches risk irrelevance if they disregard the significance of experience. However, faith formation extends beyond the pursuit of increasingly lavish experiences. God’s work transcends our individual desires.
The crucial question arises: are Christian churches actively considering how to engage with people’s desire for authentic experiences? While some may dismiss the importance of experience altogether, even those who attempt to connect with individuals on their quest for unreasonable hospitality must be prepared to guide believers towards a profound encounter with the resurrected Christ, one that necessitates sacrifice and discipleship.
These questions extend beyond Will Guidara’s book, prompting reflection on the role of a Christian minister within the complex North American landscape. The core of the inquiry does not directly answer “Is Will Guidara A Christian?”, but uses his hospitality concepts to explore the intersection of service, experience, and faith within a modern Christian context.
