Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Richard Quiambao, co-owner of Amihan Grill + Bakeshop, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Amihan Grill + Bakeshop is a locally owned restaurant and bakery in Calgary specializing in Filipino street food, barbecue, and baked goods. We offer Calgarians and guests from other cities the food they would normally experience when they dine in the Philippines, presented in a modern and casual way.
Tell us about yourself
Amihan was inspired by the owners’ childhoods and the streets they grew up in the Philippines. We love our very unique and diversely influenced street food, barbecue, and baked goods and believe that it is at par with other famous and delicious international cuisines. We want to share that experience and passion with the rest of Calgary and eventually the whole of Canada and the world. We are hoping that one day, Filipino food will become a household name, just like other international dishes.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to provide employment opportunities to the youth in the community and inspire them to be business owners in the future, and promote their own culture and cuisine. We also take pride in the fact that our customers —Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike, love what we offer, which validates our hard work and achieves our objective of showcasing the best of what Filipino cuisine has to offer.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the challenges of being a business owner, especially when you’re just starting, is being able to manage finances. This is normal and learning how to make adjustments and sacrifices to get through is part of its joys and fulfillment.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be brave and courageous with the challenges that might come along the way. Remember why you started and focus on your goals.
- Keep your passion burning. This will help you innovate and avoid complacency, which oftentimes leads to your customers losing interest in your business.
- Communicate with your customers, partners, suppliers, employees, and other stakeholders. This will help you identify issues and room for improvements in the business and will also inspire you when you learn what you do best in your business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Never be afraid to showcase your roots, culture, and who you are. Your business should reflect your passion and what you believe in.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://amihan.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Amihan.Grill.Bakeshop
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amihan_grill_bakeshop/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amihan_yyc
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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