Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ignacio Arrieta, Co-Founder of La Mezcaleria, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
La Mezcaleria serves authentic Mexican food on Commercial Drive in Vancouver. Our dishes are inspired by different regions in Mexico and are made using traditional methods with fresh, West Coast ingredients for gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and carnivorous diets. La Mezcaleria also boasts one of Vancouver's largest lists of agave spirits, featuring many rare tequilas and mezcals that can't be found elsewhere in town. We have amazing cocktails and great vibes. We strive to make anyone and everyone that comes through our doors feel happy, welcome, and at home.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m originally from Chihuahua, México. I have a business and Marketing degree. Having a restaurant was always my dream growing up. I moved to Vancouver when I was 27, and at 31, I had the opportunity to open La Mezcaleria with my partners. I have always had a strong passion for food, good times, and I'm very curious about people. I like to host and provide the best experience possible.
My biggest motivation is my family and the opportunity to develop and show my creativity in all business areas. The unknown and big challenges bring me excitement and joy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It's hard to say. Big Accomplishments come after big challenges, and challenges are always there in every stage of the business. One of my biggest accomplishments is having created a brand that is loved by our amazing customers. I'm honored to have such a loyal clientele. Proof of this was during the COVID restrictions. I would not be here talking about the restaurant if it were not from our customer's loyalty and strong, driven staff.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As an entrepreneur, you have to go for the next step and take the risk.
Take the risk. If the outcome is positive, it brings big rewards, but when the outcome is negative, it can bring lots of problems. You learn from that, but in reality, it can be very painful. Especially in cities like Vancouver, where everything is so expensive.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do what you love.
- Believe in yourself. You don't know everything. You learn as you try. There is no right or wrong in business. Business is your projection and decisions you take while you believe in yourself.
- Be perseverant, and don't give up. Having a business is a long journey that impacts all areas of your life. It's not just having a business. Try to have a balanced life so you can go through the journey without giving up.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.lamezcaleria.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaMezcaleriaYVR/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamezcaleriayvr/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lamezcaleriayvr
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.
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