Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christina Clarke, Owner of Main St Local Kitchen, located in Huntsville, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Main St. Local Kitchen offers a casual fair at our restaurant located in historic Downton Huntsville, as well as private catering in Huntsville and Lake of Bays. For us, it's all about real, home-cooked food. We take pride in preparing meals in-house using locally sourced ingredients.
We are committed to supporting our local producers and farmers where possible and keeping our suppliers as close to home as we can. We are passionate about what we prepare in our kitchen. What goes to the table is the food we can feel good about.
Whether you join us at the restaurant or invite us to cater your next event, we believe in bringing people to the table and look forward to serving you!
Tell us about yourself
Main St Local Kitchen is family owned & operated. Chef/Owner Ryan Clarke was born and raised in Huntsville, ON. Like many, he left his hometown to live & learn in the industry.
In 2014, he returned with his wife and business partner, Christina Clarke, to raise a family, build a business and contribute to the community. That’s why the Clarkes are so passionate about serving quality food that brings people together over a meal.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We like to think we have a number of accomplishments, but our biggest accomplishment is being in business and the ability to support our employees and community for the past seven years despite the adversity we have faced along the way.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being a business owner is maintaining a work-life balance and putting boundaries in place to avoid being consumed by business demands.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be confident and believe in yourself! Chase your dreams. All things are possible when you work for them.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses is empowering and can help your business thrive.
- Staff are an integral part of the success of your business. Treat them like family. Your business depends on it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Fail forward! This means when things don't go according to plan, pick yourself up, learn from the situation and keep moving forward. You got this!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://mainstlocal.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mainstlocal
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstlocal/
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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