Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alex Yanez, Founder of Cocina Village, located in Fresno, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Cocina Village is a Mexican restaurant inspired by traditional homemade-style recipes. Our mission is to bring a piece of Mexico to life through authentic flavors that incite a celebration of Mexican Cuisine for everyone to taste. It's also the perfect destination for people of all ages and backgrounds, with a welcoming and family-oriented environment that invites everyone to savor the flavors of our authentic cuisine.

Tell us about yourself

My family has been in the restaurant industry for many years, and that has taught me the importance of great flavors and excellent service. I take pride in offering authentic cuisine that our customers love, and I find it incredibly rewarding to see our regulars come back time and time again, enjoying the food and the sense of community that our restaurant provides. For me, the ultimate motivation comes from seeing our customers happy. It's a celebration of the flavors, culture, and traditions that are so important to my family and me; there's nothing more rewarding than sharing that with others.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I'm incredibly proud of the loyal customer base that we've developed over the years. It's a testament to the quality of our food, service, and overall experience that we provide. Knowing that our customers trust and value us is a great honor and motivates us to continue exceeding their expectations.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Being a business owner in the restaurant industry is challenging, especially when it comes to adapting quickly to constantly changing environments. The industry is known for its unpredictability, and we need to be constantly aware of new trends, technologies, and changing customer demands. It's a demanding but rewarding job that requires us to be nimble and responsive to maintain our competitive edge.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Based on my experience as a business owner, there are three essential tips that I would give to anyone looking to start a business.

  • Firstly, always prioritize your customers and ensure that their satisfaction is your top priority.
  • Secondly, never sacrifice the quality of your product, as it's the cornerstone of your business and something that your customers will always appreciate.
  • Finally, always be proactive and plan ahead rather than wait for problems to arise and react to them. Being prepared and anticipating challenges will help you stay ahead of the game and position your business for success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://cocinavillage.com/
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3JIZm7n
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041318422254
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocinavillage/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cocina-village/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.