Earlier this evening I watched online and episode of "Kitchen Nightmares" with Chef Gordon Ramsey. As a former restaurant worker, I enjoy the show. He kind of reminds me of a chef I used to work for in the catering business. I have noticed a common theme in the shows, people start or buy a restaurant who know absolutely nothing about the business. Correct me if I'm wrong, please, but I don't think people usually buy any other kind of business that they know nothing about....do they?
It is, however, a common theme among restaurant owners. The line goes something like this:
1. I was spending a lot eating out so I thought I may as well buy a restaurant of my own
2. I was walking past this cute place one day and I just had to have it
3. I thought it would be a great way to hang out with my friends
PLEASE DON'T BUY A RESTAURANT FOR THESE REASONS
Seriously, if you're thinking of buying or starting a restaurant of your own go work in one for a minimum of six months. If you are still thinking about it after that time do another six months. Work in the front end (where the customers are) and the back end (kitchen). Find out if you really like:
a) working weekends and holidays when everyone else is generally off
b) working early mornings and late evenings
c) standing long hours on your feet
d) smelling like food and possibly booze when you go home
e) eating on the run because you don't have time to sit down and relax to eat
However, if after all this you love it, really love it, then do it!
It is, however, a common theme among restaurant owners. The line goes something like this:
1. I was spending a lot eating out so I thought I may as well buy a restaurant of my own
2. I was walking past this cute place one day and I just had to have it
3. I thought it would be a great way to hang out with my friends
PLEASE DON'T BUY A RESTAURANT FOR THESE REASONS
Seriously, if you're thinking of buying or starting a restaurant of your own go work in one for a minimum of six months. If you are still thinking about it after that time do another six months. Work in the front end (where the customers are) and the back end (kitchen). Find out if you really like:
a) working weekends and holidays when everyone else is generally off
b) working early mornings and late evenings
c) standing long hours on your feet
d) smelling like food and possibly booze when you go home
e) eating on the run because you don't have time to sit down and relax to eat
However, if after all this you love it, really love it, then do it!
