[Estella]

Our F&B Director asked me to write a preemptive thank-you to his department for what they're going to go through on Thursday, and this is what I came up with. If you've ever worked in the food industry, maybe this will resonate.


As the diners in (our restaurant) all relax and sip their wine,
They’re chatting with their loved ones and enjoying their time,
While the clink of glass and silver and the crackle of the fire
Ensure all feel warm and welcome, with everything they could desire.
And upstairs in the condos the hosts all beam with pride,
As their guests enjoy their turkeys with whatever’s on the side.
And even in the Ballroom there are families tucked away,
To indulge in all we offer on this extraordinary day.

It’s Thanksgiving at (fancy hotel) – on the surface it’s serene
With the city’s finest service and food fit for a king.
But peeling back the layers you don’t have to look too far
To get a clearer sense of just how nuts things really are:

The Kitchen staff is buzzing, from the heat and the caffeine,
Pastry’s hip deep in flour, but they insist it’s just routine.
Banquets are professionals, who consistently amaze,
Stewarding are troopers – but they haven’t slept in days.
And the Servers? Well, they’re smiling but they look like they’re in shock -
And the turkeys are already running for the loading dock.
It’s the ultimate team effort, with credit shared by all -
And there goes (Sous Chef), chasing turkeys down the hall.

If you ask me what I’m thankful for on this November day
It’s the care and dedication that you show in every way.
Only a team like ours could deliver such a feat
While making it look seamless, like you do this every week.
But what’s even more impressive is the attitude you bring
As you’re smiling through the chaos, and perfecting everything,
And doing unto others, as you would have done to you -
So thank you for your service, and Happy Thanksgiving to you, too.