Lee Morcus from Kaiser Grille in Palm Springs, CA | Every DiRōNA Has A Story

Join Scott Breard in this episode of Every DiRōNA Has a Story as he interviews Lee Morcus, owner of Kaiser Grille in Palm Springs, California, a restaurateur with deep family roots in the industry. Lee shares the rich history of his Lebanese heritage, from his grandparents’ butcher shop and farm to the family’s ventures into supermarkets, hotels, and eventually restaurants. Highlighting the evolution of Kaiser Grille since its opening in 1992, Lee discusses the Mediterranean-inspired menu, commitment to quality, and the importance of adapting to guest preferences while staying true to tradition. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of operating in seasonal resort economies like Palm Springs and Carmel. Lee emphasizes the vital role of loyal staff in creating exceptional guest experiences, sharing stories of employees who have been with the restaurants for decades. He touches on the importance of succession planning and passing on family values to the next generation. With a philosophy rooted in authenticity and a dedication to preserving the soul of iconic locations like the Hog’s Breath Inn in Carmel, Lee continues to inspire with his passion for creating memorable dining experiences.