Tradition and enjoyment: The Gelbmann Wirtshaus celebrates local hospitality!

Tradition and enjoyment: The Gelbmann Wirtshaus celebrates local hospitality!

In the heart of Ottakring, where the coziness and tradition of the Viennese tavern are still very popular, Alexander Gelbmann has fulfilled a lifelong dream by taking over the Gelbmann tavern. Born in 1974, he switched from advertising to the hospitality industry and has given the family business that his parents founded a new lease of life. “It is important to continue the tradition and at the same time bring a breath of fresh air,” said Alexander in an interview.

His team has been there for a long time: Edi, the waiter, who has been in the house since 1992, and Günther, Edi's brother, who has been delighting guests with his creative daily dishes on tables since 1994, ensure a family atmosphere. Chef Bernd is also a veteran – part of the Gelbmann team since 1993. This consistency in the staff is a real stroke of luck, because long-term employees contribute significantly to a welcoming atmosphere, as we know that regular guests in the catering industry bring planning security and higher capacity utilization. Around 15 percent of these loyal customers can account for up to a third of sales, as [Schirmherrschaft](https://www. Schirmherrschaft.de/gaestebinding-und-stammgaeste-in-der-gastronomie/) reports.

The new guest garden and the regular guests

Speaking of atmosphere: the charming guest garden was renovated four weeks ago. New tables, chairs and a large awning now invite you to enjoy the warm summer evenings in the open air. A real plus that should further bind the already loyal customers. Günther in particular knows many of the regular guests personally or by sight - his handwriting on the daily specials has long since become a distinguishing feature. It goes without saying that a friendly smile and a personal address are important for the guests, as the Gastrojournal highlights. These small gestures make the difference!

Alexander also has a brother, Sebastian, who runs the “Gmoakeller” on Heumarkt. The two also run the Waldviertler Hof on Schönbrunner Straße together. This shows once again how rooted the family is in Viennese gastronomy. The connection to the neighborhood and the planning to attract new regular guests in the future is essential for him. Guest loyalty is not a coincidence, but requires active investments in order to attract and retain guests in the long term.

Guest loyalty in the catering industry

As is well known, regular guests are one of the most important guest groups in the catering industry. The art of retaining these customers is to create a positive memory for them that keeps them coming back. “We need to remember our guests’ preferences and offer little touches to encourage their repeat loyalty,” explains Alexander. An increase in the proportion of regular guests by five percent can significantly increase profits, as [Schirmherrschaft](https://www. Schirmherrschaft.de/gaestebinding-und-stammgaeste-in-der-gastronomie/) shows.

Whether through individually personalized service offers, such as congratulating you on your birthday or special treatment after complaints - everything counts to intensify the bond. The Gelbmann Wirtshaus already has a loyal base, and Alexander Gelbmann has the necessary knack to expand this further. The challenge remains to be able to assert oneself in a growing range of restaurants and surprise guests with creative ideas.

A pub like the Gelbmann is more than just a place to eat; it is a meeting point for traditional Viennese flair and warm hospitality. The success is reflected not only in the occupancy rate, but also in the happy faces of the guests who return here after a long day to enjoy the atmosphere and the excellent cuisine.