Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Liza Shirazi, co-owner of Revival Cafe + Kitchen, located in Cambridge, MA, USA.

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

Hello! My name is Liza Shirazi; I am one of the owners and founders of Revival Cafe and Kitchen. We have locations in Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville. We have a large range of customers as our locations are all in very different neighborhoods. We see a lot of families and local neighbors in all of our communities, as well as tourists, office workers, students, etc. We love meeting new people and also connecting with our regulars who we see every day. It's the people that make this business so special.

Tell us about yourself

I first got started when I opened Crema Cafe in Harvard Square, open from 2008-to 2018. I have a strong passion for community and cultivating joy in very small or more significant ways. Food and beverage can be the source of so much pleasure, in the experience of consumption or for socialization. It brings people together, fuels them, and can inspire us in various ways. I love creating welcoming spaces to host all those experiences and love it when people find a "third" home in our cafes.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

That is a really hard question to answer as it is rare I am able to take a step back and really celebrate these accomplishments (however, I am working on this!). My biggest accomplishments are when I hear how our cafes have made an impact on others' lives in a positive way, either from staff members or guests. That keeps me motivated and inspired to keep growing in this business.

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

Balance. Your "work" is not just a job, it's part of your life, and there are no defined hours. It can be hard to separate, set boundaries, and balance your life when you are so invested in something. It can be a blessing and a curse.

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

  1. You must be passionate about the business and how it can grow.
  2. Connect with others who are already in the business and pick their brain.
  3. Find good people who will support you inside and outside the business. You will need to rely on others; it can't be done alone.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Good luck! Trust your gut and believe in yourself.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.revivalcafeandkitchen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Revivalcafeandkitchen/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revivalcafeandkitchen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revival-cafe-kitchen/

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.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.