Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Medardo Esconde, Chef-Owner of Kamusta Po Asian Culinary, located in Las Vegas, NV, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Kamusta Po Asian Culinary is a food and catering service specializing in modern Asian cuisine. It was first opened in the Philippines, catering to school events like Christmas parties, birthdays, and family gets together. When I moved to Thailand in 2006 to teach in school, I continued my cooking passion. I offered food, party games, accessories, and souvenirs. My clients were mostly British and Americans married to Filipinos. I was also doing Private Home Cooking for the American family and intergovernmental organizations like the International Organisation for Migration gatherings of country representatives and directors. This was like a one-man show; I planned and created the menu, shopping, prepping, and cooking.
Tell us about yourself
It really started in cooking for my family, and then I realized I wanted to uplift my financial status through my food, and in every dish I prepare, I always think I am in a competition, not competing with anybody but in my own dish. I always wanted my dish to have the best version. I wanna give soul to my food. When I see people satisfied with the food and services I'm giving them, I get motivated to do better.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My business brought me to different places and featured in television and magazine, but the biggest accomplishment for me to be considered was when I was able to help others during a pandemic by providing them food and money from my earnings in food delivery.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being the Chef/owner, one of the hardest things is being on 24/7. When I had an event, there were sleepless nights, and sometimes even I was sleeping, I still dreamed of what I wanted to do.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Think of your purpose.
- Think of a business that is something that you know how to do even if no one is with you.
- How much time and effort can you give to the business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Always aim for the best and don't just be contented with the tradition.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kamustapo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dards_gonzales_esconde/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.