Having absolutely no experience in the restaurant business (except for eating in them), let me give you some advice... (you haven't received any advice before now, have you?)
(You know, I'm like the people who have no kids telling you how to raise yours.
)
Anyway, a BBQ place opened near me about six months ago. Their food is not bad, but the people that work there *always* look like their dog just died. Everyone (even the owner) just looks sad. So, I go there occasionally, but I prefer to give my business to local restaurants that seem happy to see me.
So, all I'm sayin' is: a little good customer service goes a long way! I hope you can find some friendly folks to make you successful!