Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Quyen Phan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Quyen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

The idea for Anchovies & Salt came from a deep longing to bring the vibrancy and authenticity of Vietnamese culture to the community in the United States. I grew up surrounded by the flavors, aromas, and communal spirit of Vietnamese cuisine, and I wanted to recreate that experience for both Vietnamese Americans and locals unfamiliar with our traditions.

When I saw the lakefront property in Renton, Washington, I immediately knew it was the perfect location to establish a restaurant that feels like a getaway to Vietnam. The concept evolved around providing not just food but a journey—each room in our restaurant is uniquely designed to represent different regions of Vietnam, blending traditional elements with modern comfort. I was excited by the idea of creating a place where families could gather, share meals, and feel connected to their heritage or experience a piece of Vietnam for the first time.

This wasn’t just about filling a gap in the market; it was about celebrating my culture and creating a place that feels like home for many. With over 300 indoor and outdoor seats and spaces for large families and groups, the vision was to make Vietnamese dining accessible yet upscale, blending tradition with innovation

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Quyen Phan, and I am passionate about sharing Vietnamese culture through food and hospitality. My journey into the restaurant business started with a strong desire to preserve and promote Vietnamese culinary traditions while introducing them to a wider audience. Anchovies & Salt is more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural hub where every detail, from the menu to the interior design, tells a story about Vietnam.

We offer a carefully curated menu featuring traditional dishes with fresh local ingredients, such as our signature dishes inspired by family recipes and regional specialties. What sets us apart is our focus on creating a complete experience: from the design of our rooms, each reflecting distinct regions of Vietnam, to the upscale yet welcoming ambiance that accommodates families and large gatherings.

I am most proud of the community we’ve built around Anchovies & Salt. It’s a place where people come together to celebrate milestones, discover the richness of Vietnamese cuisine, and create memories. What I want people to know is that Anchovies & Salt is not just a restaurant; it’s a bridge between cultures, a celebration of diversity, and a place where everyone is welcome.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Opening Anchovies & Salt during challenging times truly tested my resilience in many ways. One standout example was navigating the shortage of labor in the restaurant industry. As the owner, I had to wear many hats, stepping into roles I’d never imagined. One of the most unexpected was taking on the role of a backup bartender.

Despite having minimal knowledge of alcohol and cocktails, I quickly adapted by learning on the fly. I relied on online recipes and threw myself into the fire on some of our busiest days. It was intimidating at first, but I embraced the challenge with determination. The experience not only deepened my appreciation for my team’s hard work but also taught me the value of flexibility and quick thinking.

When I saw guests enjoying their drinks and connecting in the space we created, it reinforced my commitment to overcoming any obstacle. Anchovies & Salt was built to bring people together, and this journey has reminded me that resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, adapting, and doing whatever it takes to create something meaningful.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

For anyone just starting out, my biggest advice is:

Be authentic: Share your story, your values, and what makes you unique. People connect with personalities, not just businesses.
Consistency is key: Post regularly, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different formats like videos, reels, and stories.
Engage, don’t just broadcast: Social media is a two-way conversation. Reply to comments, ask questions, and build a relationship with your audience.
Invest in quality visuals: Food, in particular, is about presentation, and good lighting and clear images make a big difference.
Celebrate your community: Highlight your customers, partners, and team. Make your audience feel valued and involved.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anchoviesandsalt.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoviesandsalt/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoviesandsalt
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quyen-phan-608a6925
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnchoviesandSalt
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/anchovies-and-salt-renton-6?osq=anchovies+%26+salt

Image Credits

The photos were taken by our in house team.