Redesigning PJ's Thai

PJ Thai is a well-known Thai restaurant nestled in the historic district of Savannah, GA. It’s a warm and friendly neighborhood spot for comfort food or to explore Thailand’s rich culinary landscape. However, due to its popularity, PJ has been struggling to keep up with the increasing flow of customers, resulting in frustrating wait times for guests.

To address this issue, my team conducted observations, and interviews with stakeholders, and analyzed online reviews to build a customer journey map. This map identified the steps of the guest’s experience and pinpointed areas of concern. Our analysis revealed that the lack of efficiency in the kitchen was the primary cause of the long wait times.

Following an insightful workshop with PJ’s staff, we redesigned the kitchen layout and upgraded the equipment. The new layout concept facilitates a smoother flow throughout the restaurant. By establishing a single direction for plate movement, we minimized interference between waitstaff serving and clearing tables. Additionally, we allocated more space for the chef and assistant to work comfortably and efficiently.

Finally, new stoves were ordered and an additional cook was hired to manage the influx of orders. These improvements aim to enhance the overall dining experience for PJ Thai’s customers, reducing wait times and ensuring a more enjoyable visit.