It's all about opulence in the Shoji Tabuchi Theatre restrooms in Branson, Missouri, winner of the 8th Annual America's Best Restroom competition. Several years ago, when I first saw photos of this Ladies Room , I melted—and immediately put it on my list of must-see lavatories. I love a good loo—will go out of my way to visit one—and this one takes the cake. So, when I learned that this example of over-the-top elegance was the contest winner for 2009, I felt it was well-deserved.

The ladies powder room features live cut orchids at every granite and onyx pedestal sink, stained and jeweled glass, and magnificient chandeliers. Talk about feeling special!

The gentlemen's lounge is equally elegant, with black lion-head sinks, black leather chairs, and a marble fireplace. An adjacent billiard room contains a mahogany billiard table, a viewing gallery, and an an antique burled walnut mirror.

These restrooms have generated tons of publicity for the Shoji Tabuchi Theatre, even made it a destination, which translates into more foot traffic—and more sales. In the long term, this is cost-effective marketing. While this look is not attainable or appropriate for the typical Mom-and-Pop shop, there are many simple improvements that can be added to even the most humble restroom that will get people talking, make them feel valued, provide a powerful message about your operating standards, and keep people coming back.

America's Best Restroom contest is sponsored by CINTAS.
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