Running a successful restaurant is always a challenge, but perhaps never more so than now. Pedro Ledesma is the proprietor of the busy casual dining bistro La Vissuta in Tuam, Co. Galway, Ireland.
Here he shares his top tips for success.
- Know your customer base and what they like to eat and drink.
- Consistency in the food and service are key, no matter who is on.
- Always chat to each and every customer and thank them for their custom.
- Support local suppliers.
- Location, location, location.
- Make sure social media accounts are up to date and relevant.
- Advertise in the local newspaper.
- Get involved in local sports clubs by sponsoring and helping with coaching.
- Have an accurate rota.
- Invest in staff training (Customer Service, Barista Training, Cocktail Making etc.)
- Have a good, affordable selection of wines, beers and cocktails.
“For me, the most important thing is not trying to do everything yourself to save money. Hire qualified people to do the jobs. For example- a good accountant to do the bookers, a good marketing person to do PR and social media, a good cleaner to have the restaurant spotless.
Basically, you need to do what you are good at and leave the professionals to what they are good at.”
The restaurant has 60 covers and opens Thursday, Friday and Saturday 5-9pm and Sunday 2- 8pm. www.facebook.com/lavissutaitalian
