Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sadaf Nezhad, owner of Sadaf Restaurant, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is a Persian restaurant that serves Flame-grilled Kabobs, traditional Persian stews, and fresh chopped salads and vegetarian dishes to the Southern California families who enjoy Persian cuisine in a relaxed and chic atmosphere.
Tell us about yourself
I was inspired to open my own restaurant with the support of my father 11 years ago after graduating from business school with my MBA. The love for food and the hospitality industry motivated me to open what’s known today as one of the most popular Persian restaurants in Los Angeles. The hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant give me energy and is my main reason for waking up and going to work each day! I truly love what I do, and every day I come in and try to make my business Better than the day before. Of course, my business has its challenges, just like every other business, but it’s all in perspective. Every day it’s something new, but I welcome those challenges, and when I can overcome them with the help of my team, it’s the best feeling. I have to say my team is amazing! The people I work with are truly dedicated, hard-working, and professional. Without them, this business wouldn’t thrive. A huge THANK YOU to each one of them!!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have to say that my biggest accomplishment is being able to employ over 50 people in the community who can now earn a paycheck, support their families, pay their rent, and be able to have a good life. I take pride in being able to provide opportunities to people, and my entire team knows that if they ever need anything, I’m always there with a helping hand. Another big accomplishment is to be acknowledged as one of the most well-known Persian restaurants, not only in Los Angeles but in Southern California. It feels good to plant a seed and watch it grow and flourish into this great business that people talk about. I’m so grateful.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is striving to make all my employees happy, as well as trying to make sure all my customers are satisfied at the same time. In a restaurant business, working with so many different people means working with different personalities and being able to be flexible, understanding, calm, and patient. This is a work in progress every day.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take the time to write a thorough business plan.
- Take good care of your employees & listen to your customers.
- Never give up.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
The last thing I’d like to share is to Listen to your customers; they are the heart of your business. Take criticism with grace and be able to change and improve for the better.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sadafencino.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SadafEncino
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sadafrestaurant_la/
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.
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