A regular haunt for regional hospitality in NSW, the Good Times Only Group boasts an impressive portfolio of small venues that each bring something special to the table.
The Prince draws a lively crowd with its vibrant, leafy courtyard designed for high energy socialising. It’s a favourite spot for bottomless brunches, DJ sessions, and relaxed game nights featuring darts, shuffleboard, and giant Jenga. Meanwhile, Dagwood Bar & Kitchen delivers far more than you’d expect, dishing out street style favourites like burgers, bao, edamame, and Mexican bites — all perfectly matched with standout cocktails, including the crowd favourite Lady Assassin.
Running such uniquely styled venues isn’t without its challenges. With each location offering its own personality and pace, ensuring every guest feels looked after can be a logistical juggling act.
We spoke with hospo heavyweight and Good Times Only Group Operations Manager, Joshua Harris about how Now Book It AI, Sadie has stepped in to free up staff and keep communication consistent, fast and on brand.
Keeping customers happy, even when things get hectic
In hospitality, there’s no such thing as a quiet moment – especially when you’re running multiple high energy venues, each with its own crowd, vibe, and soundtrack. For the team at The Good Times Only Group, peak hours often mean packed patios, booming DJ sets, and bartenders in full swing. But while the team was busy pouring drinks and hosting brunches, unanswered calls and missed bookings started slipping through the cracks.
“We were missing calls and enquiries during service – not because we didn’t care, but because our staff were flat out taking care of guests in the venue,” said Joshua.
“We needed something – or someone – that could help us keep that great customer experience going, even when we were in the weeds.”
That’s when Now Book It’s AI receptionist joined the crew.
Sadie AI, the always on team member who never misses a beat
Designed to handle the front line customer comms, Sadie now fields phone calls, responds to booking enquiries, and provides instant answers to common questions across the Good Times Only group venues. Whether a guest is calling to ask about the Friday night DJ, book a table for a birthday brunch, or double check the menu, Sadie’s got it covered 24/7. That kind of consistency has been a game changer for the team.
“The Sadie AI system works a treat, it gives us the breathing room we need during busy periods, and the confidence that our guests are being looked after – even before they walk through the door.” said Joshua.
By taking care of the admin hustle, Sadie frees up staff to focus on what they do best – delivering great food, drinks, and good times. There’s no more juggling between shaking a cocktail and answering a ringing phone. Instead, the team stays present with guests in the moment, knowing Sadie’s got the digital front of house under control.
Sadie AI talks the talk
With all Good Times Only Group venues offering completely different experiences, it’s essential that the information guests receive feels relevant and on brand. That’s why each venue team has the ability to tailor Sadie’s knowledge base – adding, editing, or updating details as often as they need. Whether it’s changing the cocktail list at Dagwood, or tweaking brunch hours at The Prince, the team can ensure Sadie is always delivering the most up to date, venue specific answers.
Just as importantly, they can adjust how those answers are worded – so Sadie always sounds like she belongs, no matter which venue she’s representing.
“It’s great knowing we can jump in at any time and make changes ourselves, we can keep it fresh, and make sure Sadie always sounds like part of the team.” Joshua explained.
It’s a dynamic tool that evolves with the business, keeping guest communication sharp, accurate, and true to each venue’s vibe.
Finding a solution that actually fits the fast moving world of hospitality isn’t easy – especially when every venue has its own quirks, tone, and tempo. But for The Good Times Only Group, Now Book It’s AI receptionist has filled a critical gap. It’s taken the pressure off staff during peak periods, made sure no guest enquiry slips through the cracks, and helped maintain the warm, consistent service each venue is known for.
“It’s taken so much stress off the team. We know Sadie’s handling the front line, so we can stay focused on giving guests the best experience possible.”
Simplifying staff training with a user friendly platform
Good Times Only Group also takes full advantage of the Now Book It reservation platform. Joshua found that one of their most common pain points was training staff on new systems – especially when it comes to a crucial area like reservations. With high turnover and a fast paced service environment, the team needs tools that are easy to learn and even easier to use.
“We were on the hunt to a find a product with an easy UI to aid staff training and usability of the system” Joshua explained.
That’s where Now Book It really shines. It’s simple, intuitive interface makes it easy for staff to pick up quickly and use with confidence – and with round the clock support, there’s always help available when you need it.
“It’s so straightforward – everyone got the hang of it in no time, which has made a huge difference during peak hours.” said Joshua.
With Now Book It, the team feels more confident, better supported, and ready to keep serving up good times only.
Get in touch to have Sadie AI join your team today.
P.S. Did you know Sadie can even change her voice? Running an Irish pub and want her to greet guests with a charming Irish accent? No problem – just reach out to our team and we’ll help you make the switch!
Book your table at a Good Times Only Group venue –
Now Book It tip: Always get a booking in early for a Saturday Bottomless booking at The Prince or Dagwood, they fill up fast!
