WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO RIGHT?
By Danny Meyer
Publisher: Random House
The restaurateur and entrepreneur shares stories of events that shaped the success of his business ventures.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Danny Meyer's latest offering, "What Could Possibly Go Right?: The Essential Journey to Scale an Enduring Culture," is a masterclass in leadership and organizational culture. Meyer, the visionary behind Union Square Cafe and Shake Shack, delves deep into the intricacies of scaling not just a business, but a culture that stands the test of time.
The book is structured into four parts, each chronicling a distinct phase of Meyer's journey. From the inception of his first restaurant to the global expansion of Shake Shack, Meyer candidly shares the highs and lows, offering readers a transparent look into the challenges of maintaining a cohesive culture amidst rapid growth. His concept of "Enlightened Hospitality"—prioritizing relationships with employees, customers, and the community—is both inspiring and practical.
One of the standout features of this book is Meyer's ability to distill complex leadership principles into memorable mantras. Phrases like "D.F.S—Don’t F’ing Settle," "Change Your Grip," and "Think Like a Winemaker" serve as guiding lights for leaders aiming to foster a positive and enduring organizational culture. These mantras are not mere slogans; they are backed by real-life anecdotes that illustrate their application and effectiveness.
Meyer's honesty about his missteps adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. The closure of his beloved restaurant, Tabla, is a poignant example. Instead of glossing over this failure, Meyer delves into the lessons learned, emphasizing that setbacks, when handled correctly, can pave the way for future success. As he aptly puts it, “The road to success is paved with mistakes well handled.”
Critics have lauded the book for its insightful and practical approach. Kirkus Reviews describes it as "worthy reading for budding entrepreneurs," highlighting its value for those looking to build and scale businesses with a strong cultural foundation. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/danny-meyer/what-could-possibly-go-right/?utm_source=openai))
In conclusion, "What Could Possibly Go Right?" is not just a book about business; it's a guide to building meaningful and enduring relationships within an organization. Meyer's wisdom, drawn from decades of experience, makes this book a must-read for leaders at all levels.
Recommendation: Highly recommended!
written on: 10/8/2026