'A good meal can change your whole attitude for the day' Golden Brunch owner says
An interview with Argie Karafotias, co-owner of Golden Brunch in Arlington Heights.
Q: Tell us about your business.
A: Golden Brunch is a local family owned and run breakfast restaurant. We also offer full service catering which include breakfast, deli, Italian, Greek, Mexican and boxed lunches. Quality and consistency is our number one goal. We do that by making the majority of our menu items in house daily from fresh salsa to our famous Greek yogurt.
Q: How did you get into this industry?
A: I started working as a server in a small fish tavern when I was in high school in Greece. I knew that was for me because I love good food and I love talking everyday with people. I started in this industry to make dining not just food, but an experience for all.
Q: How do you differ from your competition?
A: Over the last 10 years the industry has changed to fast paced dining. We have three owners and we are in the restaurant every day just like we are in our homes every day. We make sure operationally everything is running well but that every guest feels like they are part of the family. I am thankful that most of my customers think of me as a friend. We learn about each other and have that personal connection. That is something we will not lose.
Q: As a local business, what has been your company's biggest obstacle?
A: People are running everyday all day and they do not give time to enjoy their meal. We need to teach ourselves again that when we have a meal, we should sit and enjoy it.
Q: What is one important tip you would give someone just starting a business today?
A: Nothing will be easy nothing will be hard. It is of how you see it. If there is a will, there a way. When you work hard you will find a way to succeed. Work hard and do not see other restaurant as competitors, but as the people who can make you do better with your business.
Q: What are people in your industry talking about?
A: People in my industry are talking about how taxes have affected our businesses. There are so may laws and restrictions and we are trying to keep up.
Q: What is the key to your company's success?
A: Respect for what we are doing and consistency of our food and service. We do not just feed the people. We make them feel better to keep going with their day. A good meal can change your whole attitude for the day.
Golden Brunch
Name: Argie Karafotias
Title: Co-Owner
Company: Golden Brunch
Address: 31 E. Golf Road, Arlington Heights
Industry: Restaurant, Catering
Year started: 2016
Number of employees: 21
Web address: <a href="https://www.goldenbrunch.com/">goldenbrunch.com</a>
Email: info@goldenbrunch.com