Bristol-based independent restaurants, Bank and Lapin have been named in CODE Hospitality’s list of Happiest Places to Work for the second year running. Announced during an Awards ceremony held at Wild by Tart in Belgravia, London on Monday 7 September, this year’s winners represent some of the most people-focussed and forward thinking employers in UK hospitality.
Following an in-depth judging process, during which CODE invited team members to submit anonymous questionnaires covering their experience in the work place, fire cooking neighbourhood restaurant, Bank, and contemporary French restaurant, Lapin, achieved an overall score of 9.44 out of 10.
Judges commented on how Bank and Lapin, owned by Dan O’Regan and Jack Briggs-Horan, “Feels like a business that genuinely lives its values, rather than simply listing policies or benefits”. They made note of “thoughtful people-focused benefits” and “Outstanding investment in training”, as they praised “a genuine commitment to employee development, with real examples of people joining the business and progressing their careers.”
Created by CODE to shine a light on best employment practices and make sure that the hospitality industry can evolve for the better, the Happiest Places to Work survey measures workplace happiness across 11 key areas. Bank and Lapin scored exceptionally across the board, including scores of 9.5 or higher on questions relating to feeling conformable, safe and secure in the workplace, timely payment, the business welcoming people from all backgrounds, business leaders being supportive, respectful and inspiring, and whether employees would recommend their workplace to a friend.
Dan O’Regan, owner and founder of Bank and Lapin, commented: “I truly believe that exceptional hospitality requires happy, valued team members, and yet our industry has a well-earned reputation for berating its servers and – as my business partner Jack recalls – young chefs having pans thrown at their heads. Thankfully, many restaurants have been busy updating the rule book, and are now investing in their people’s wellbeing and progression in the workplace. This is of fundamental importance to Jack and myself, so we’re genuinely delighted to have received such high scores from our own staff. Most often, what we’re actually hiring in hospitality is potential, and it’s our job to create an environment where our team members can realise it.”
BANK Bristol is open Tuesday to Thursday 6pm – 10pm, Friday 5pm – 10pm, Saturday 9am – 10pm, and Sunday 12pm – 7pm. Diners can book via www.bankbristol.com.
Lapin is open Tuesday 5.30pm – 10pm, Wednesday to Saturday 12pm – 3.30pm and 5.30pm – 10pm, and Sunday 12pm – 8pm. Diners can book via www.lapinbristol.co.uk.
