We recently connected with Phil Le and have shared our conversation below.
Phil, appreciate you joining us today. How did you find your key vendor or vendors? Maybe you can share the backstory and share some context and the relevant details to help us understand why you chose them, why they chose you, etc.
Establishing strong working partnerships with key vendors is one of the most critical components of operating a successful restaurant. My experience with my previous employer, So Hospitality Group provided me the opportunity to initiate and cultivate positive relationships with these essential partners. These connections not only ensure a reliable supply chain but also contribute to the overall quality and consistency of our offerings. By fostering mutual respect and open communication, we can collaborate effectively to address challenges and pursue shared goals. This synergy is vital for maintaining high standards, managing costs, and adapting to market changes. As we continue to prioritize these vendor relationships, we position ourselves to deliver exceptional dining experiences to our customers.
Phil, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’ve been immersed in the restaurant industry since I was just eight years old, following my mom to work. She has been both my inspiration and compass throughout my life. Our journey began when we came to the United States in 1980, speaking very little English. My parents found work as janitors, and my mom also picked up a part-time job bussing tables at a Chinese restaurant. Her hard work and determination paid off, and she eventually became a server as her English improved. Eight years later, my parents realized their dream by opening their own Chinese restaurant.
In 1998, we sold the family restaurant as my sister, Amy, and I chose to pursue our collegiate careers. Even after graduating from college, both Amy and I continued working in restaurants while holding corporate jobs. Fast forward to 2015, Amy took a bold step and launched her own business—a food truck named Duck and Roll. After a couple of successful years, she transitioned from the food truck to open her first brick-and-mortar restaurant, Saucy Porka.
Meanwhile, I played a pivotal role in the success of So Hospitality Group, an incredible organization where I spent 19 years learning everything I know about the industry.
In 2022, the stars aligned as Amy and I joined forces as business partners to open Saucy Porka in St. Louis. As a new restaurateur, I felt confident and poised, free from stress about running my own business. My time with So Hospitality Group truly prepared me for this new chapter in life. I had the privilege of learning from brilliant minds in the restaurant industry, gaining invaluable insights and lessons along the way.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
Building a brand that resonates begins with fostering a culture of belief and commitment within your organization. As the leader, it’s crucial to ensure your team genuinely believes in your vision and values. At Saucy Porka, our core philosophy centers around creating an exceptional experience for our diners. We prioritize a welcoming atmosphere, ensure our food is delivered promptly, and guarantee that every order is accurate.
I frequently remind our employees of the importance of each customer, appreciating that they have chosen to spend their hard-earned money with us. Therefore, it is our responsibility to provide them with the best care possible. While we acknowledge that not every diner will fall in love with our food, we are committed to ensuring they receive outstanding service. By instilling these values within our team, we strengthen our brand’s reputation and cultivate lasting loyalty from our patrons.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Building a great team hinges on the principle of careful selection. It’s essential to recognize the significance of hiring individuals who align with your vision and contribute to the success of your organization. Rather than succumbing to the pressure of immediate staffing needs, maintain a steadfast commitment to finding the right fit. This means being willing to pass on candidates who may hinder progress in the long run.
The right team members should not only possess the necessary skills but also share your passions and values. When you bring people on board who genuinely believe in the mission and culture of your organization, you’re laying a solid foundation for growth and success. This alignment cultivates a cohesive work environment, where each team member is motivated and driven by a shared purpose.
Ultimately, investing time in the selection process pays dividends, resulting in a dynamic team dedicated to achieving your collective goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://saucyporka.com
- Instagram: @saucyporka
- Facebook: @saucyporka
- Yelp: Saucy Porka
