Danny Meyer’s Setting the Table is a heartfelt and strategic memoir that reveals how the principles of hospitality can drive excellence, loyalty, and long-term success in any business.

As the founder of Union Square Hospitality Group and Shake Shack, Meyer shares lessons from building some of New York’s most beloved restaurants, emphasizing that genuine hospitality—making people feel seen, heard, and valued—is a competitive advantage. He introduces the concept of “enlightened hospitality,” where employees come first, creating a ripple effect that benefits customers, community, and investors. Blending personal stories with leadership insights, Meyer shows how empathy, trust, and service can transform not just restaurants, but any organization that wants to thrive through human connection. Setting the Table is both a business playbook and a philosophy for leading with heart.