Repost from our sister company The Virginia Business Review. Over 50 years strong, a major recent renovation and this bar & restaurant in Norfolk reeks Greek!
So let’s start with you are you from this local area?
Yes. Born and Raised in Norfolk, Va. My whole family is from here and I graduated from Maury High School.
Why did you choose this line of business?
After I graduated high school. I toured with my brothers band Savannah all around the country. When we got back in town I needed to decide on a real career path. I saw how much joy the restaurant industry brought my father when he opened the business so I began working along side of him.
What made you decide to start your own business vs. working for somebody else?When did you begin your business?
Our family was always very entrepreneurial. My father began this business in 1966 and I joined him in 1982.
Starting a business is a tough thing to do! What inspired you to keep going as you were getting it off the ground?
My father started the business, but after I took over there were many challenging times and obstacles that I faced. Staying current in the large community of restaurants in Norfolk is tough. At one point I started a catering company called Creative Catering of Va when the restaurant wasn’t doing so well to supplement our income. We underwent major renovations about 2 ½ years ago and have grown tremendously since! In 2018 after owning the catering company for 12 years I can happily say that I was able to comfortably sell it because of how well the restaurant is doing.
When would you really say your business went from a concept to actually functional? Looking back, what was the most difficult challenge you had to face?
Investing a lot of money into renovations for a business that was not profitable was very scary and a large risk, but it was 100% worth it. We have been in business for over 50 years and would like to continue the family legacy for another 50.
What do you enjoy the most about the Virginia Beach communities your business takes care of?
All of our customers have been so loyal and supportive of us. They are a part of our family, and are what keep us going to want to always try and be better.
If a potential customer has to pick from 3 different businesses providing what you provide, what would make your company really stand out, and they choose your company over the others?
Being family owned and operated we care very much about the quality and consistency of our product and you are always treated like family when you dine with us. Our customer service is one of the things that we truly pride ourselves on. Our employees work very hard to make sure every guest leaves happy.
Has internet technology played a big part in your growth, and making your company more successful?
Social media has played a large part in our growth. We have been able to reach a whole new clientele with the help of facebook and Instagram marketing.
Where do you see your business going forward in 2019?
We hope that we will continue to grow and be able to offer great food and service to the community.
Thinking back to day one, can you think of anything you may have done differently to overcome challenges and to meet your business goals in a more efficient amount of time?
I wish I would’ve added a bar earlier. Alcohol sales were really low for us in the past only offering beer and wine. Adding a bar changed a lot for us.
Where do you see your business in the next 3-5 years?
Continuing our consistency in food and service and continuing to grow in sales.
What is the best way for our readers to connect with your team and to take advantage of what your company has to offer?
Follow us on social media to stay in touch with new events and food specials we have!
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