Danny Meyer’s New Memoir Reveals the Cost of Hospitality’s ‘Enlightened’ Mistakes
Danny Meyer, the 68-year-old founder of Union Square Hospitality and Shake Shack, has released a new memoir titled 'What Could Possibly Go Right?' that candidly details his professional missteps. While known for his 'enlightened hospitality' philosophy, Meyer admits to significant errors, including the failed attempt to switch Shake Shack fries to fresh in 2013, the controversial elimination of tipping in 2014, and slow responses to #MeToo allegations. The book, published on September 29, explores how his desire to please others often led to poor business decisions, such as allowing a chef to open a scalable pizza chain despite his instincts. Meyer, who stepped down as CEO in 2022 but remains chairman, uses the book to process personal and professional regrets, including his estrangement from his father and the impact of societal shifts on his brand.