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Don Shula's Recipe for 30 Years of Success Shula's Restaurant Group steps into a new era as NFL's most-winningest coach hands over the reigns Don Shula is no stranger to victory. As the NFL's most-winningest coach, including a 17-0 unbeaten season for the 1972 Miami Dolphins, Don's penchant for excellence never left him. Even after his retirement in 1980, Don continued giving every thing in his life his all, including the restaurant group he founded in 1989. After 30 years in the restaurant business, Shula's Restaurant Group now encompasses an incredible 28 locations throughout seven states within the U.S. The group is comprised of five brands, spanning the spectrum of fine dining, premium casual, casual and fast-casual concepts, including: Shula's Steak House, Shula's 2 Steak & Sports,347 Grille by Coach Shula, Shula's Bar & Grill, and Shula Burger. Though each brand has its own distinct menu and atmosphere, there's a common thread throughout each Shula's Restaurant Group location: a commitment to excellence in food and service for every single diner. It's a tradition that mirrors Don's personal and professional dedication to quality and performance. "Our friendship with the Graham family in Miami Lakes was our first introduction to the restaurant business," says Don of his first steps toward building the legendary namesake brand. "I wanted to connect with the local community on a different level, as well as celebrate the accomplishment of winning a 'Perfect Season.'" Don's main prerogative was to instill his own philosophies into the restaurant staff, as well providing an upscale dining experience. You might not think there's much connection between professional football and the restaurant industry, but Don doesn't see it that way. He takes pride in the competitive nature of the business, and taps into his desire to win to see the restaurant group through challenges. "The day-to-day operations are very much in line with how you prepare a sports team to win! You have to hire the right people, make sure they are coached properly for their positions, have the tools and equipment they need to succeed, and have a game plan in place," he says. "It takes a lot of preparation and planning to make sure the guest has a winning experience every time." Over the last three decades, Shula's has been a mainstay in the restaurant industry as an example of a brand with staying