Watch Nick Kokonas Geek Out on Tickets and Data

Chicago restaurateur Nick Kokonas of the famed Alinea, Next, and The Aviary was in New York last month presenting at the first-ever Welcome Conference on hospitality. Naturally, Kokonas took up the hot topic of the restaurants' ticketing system — which he recently defended via manifesto — and shared a little more data analysis on how well the $20 deposit concept is doing at The Aviary. "Normally I try to give an emotionally resonant talk," Kokonas said. "Today, we're going to geek out on some slides." Here, go watch the geeky slide-filled presentation in which Kokonas reveals why that $20 deposit sucked, the importance of asking the right questions, and explains, "We're not stalking people. We are trying to create a more magical experience to anticipate their needs."

Welcome Conference: Nick Kokonas

· Welcome Conference: Nick Kokonas [YouTube]
· All Nick Kokonas Coverage on Eater [-E-]