In the hospitality industry, breakfast plays a crucial role in shaping guest experiences and setting the tone for the day. That’s why we were excited to discover “Rise and Shine,” a breakfast service based in Athens dedicated to delivering authentic Greek breakfast boxes to hotels and suites. Eager to learn more about their unique approach to breakfast and commitment to sustainability, we reached out to the owner, Marios Argirakis. In this interview, Marios shares his insights on the significance of a high-quality breakfast, the challenges faced by hotels, and how “Rise and Shine” is transforming breakfast offerings in the hospitality sector.
What types of hotels is your service primarily targeted at?
Our service is primarily aimed at boutique hotels, small luxury hotels, and high-end suites that seek to provide their guests with a unique and culturally rich breakfast experience. These establishments often prioritize high-quality, personalized service and value offerings that are special, such as our premium Greek breakfast boxes.
Why should hotels choose “Rise and Shine”?
Hotels should choose “Rise and Shine” because we offer a blend of authentic Greek flavors, high-quality ingredients, and a commitment to sustainability. Our reusable packaging aligns with eco-conscious values, and our breakfasts provide a memorable culinary experience that enhances the hotel’s overall offering. By partnering with us, hotels can boost guest satisfaction and differentiate themselves through sustainable practices and exceptional dining experiences.
What is your unique selling proposition compared to your competitors?
Our unique selling proposition lies in our combination of authentic Greek gastronomy and sustainable, reusable packaging. While other services may offer breakfast options, we focus on providing an experience that not only highlights the best of Greek cuisine but also aligns with environmental responsibility. This combination of culinary excellence and eco-conscious practices sets us apart in the market.
How many different breakfast options do you offer, and do you cater to special dietary needs, such as vegan or other specific diets? Which options have been the best sellers so far?
We offer a variety of breakfast options, including classic Greek selections, vegan choices, and other dietary-specific meals such as gluten-free and lactose-free options. Our best-selling item is the “Traditional Greek Breakfast Box,” featuring fresh yogurt, honey, fruits, and a selection of locally sourced bread and cheeses. We are committed to catering to diverse dietary needs while maintaining high standards of quality and authenticity.
What inspired you to create a breakfast service focused on sustainability and gourmet options? How does “Rise and Shine” integrate sustainability into its breakfast boxes?
The inspiration behind “Rise and Shine” comes from a desire to share Greece’s rich culinary heritage while contributing to global sustainability efforts. We integrate sustainability by using reusable, eco-friendly packaging and sourcing local ingredients that support small Greek producers. By reducing waste and focusing on quality, we offer hotels a service that aligns with cultural richness and environmental consciousness.
How does a high-quality breakfast impact the overall guest experience in hotels?
A high-quality breakfast can significantly enhance the overall guest experience by setting a positive tone for the day. Guests appreciate thoughtful, well-prepared meals, and breakfast is often their first interaction with the hotel’s services. Offering something unique, like our premium Greek breakfast boxes, can leave a lasting impression, increase guest satisfaction, and encourage repeat visits.
In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge hotels face when it comes to serving breakfast, and how can they overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges hotels face is balancing the need for high-quality, fresh ingredients with the logistical demands of timely and efficient service. By partnering with “Rise and Shine”, hotels can overcome this challenge by outsourcing their breakfast offerings to a dedicated service that focuses on delivering freshly prepared, curated breakfast boxes without compromising quality or timing.
How important is packaging, and what role does it play in the guest experience?
Packaging plays a crucial role in both the presentation and perception of breakfast. Our reusable, eco-friendly packaging not only reflects the sustainability values that many modern travelers prioritize but also enhances the luxury and exclusivity of the meal. Packaging serves as an extension of the brand experience, and thoughtful, aesthetically pleasing packaging elevates the guest’s overall impression of the service.
“By partnering with Rise and Shine, hotels can overcome this challenge by outsourcing their breakfast offerings to a dedicated service that focuses on delivering freshly prepared, curated breakfast boxes without compromising quality or timing.”
How do you ensure the quality and uniqueness of the ingredients in each breakfast box?
We ensure quality by sourcing only the finest, locally produced ingredients, emphasizing freshness and authenticity. Each item is carefully selected to represent the rich flavors of Greece, from traditional cheeses and yogurt to artisanal breads and local honey. By partnering with small, local suppliers, we maintain a high level of quality while offering guests a truly unique and authentic experience.
What is the best review your breakfast has ever received?
One of our best reviews came from a boutique hotel manager who noted that “Rise and Shine” transformed their guest breakfast experience. The review highlighted how guests consistently praised the freshness and authenticity of the Greek flavors and how the eco-friendly packaging became a talking point for many environmentally conscious travelers. The manager concluded that our service had helped elevate their hotel’s reputation for premium guest experiences.
Are there any plans to expand your services beyond Athens?
Yes, we are actively exploring opportunities to expand beyond Athens, focusing on other major tourist destinations in Greece, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. As the demand for culturally rich, sustainable dining options continues to grow, we aim to bring our premium breakfast boxes to more hotels and suites across the country, and potentially even internationally in the future.
WHO IS WHO?
Argirakis Marios is an experienced hospitality professional and entrepreneur. After graduating from business school, he worked as an assistant manager in high-end restaurants and later spent five years as a Food and Beverage Manager, overseeing operations, menu planning, and staff management. Now, Argirakis Marios runs “Rise and Shine,” a business providing curated breakfast boxes to small hotels and suites. With a focus on quality and personalized service, he has built a reputation for enhancing guest experiences at boutique accommodations.
CONTACT
Email: riseandshineathens@gmail.com
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