Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jonathan Seyoum, Co-Owner of The Original Pancake House, located in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We have been creating made-from-scratch goodness in the DFW area since 1987 when we opened our first Original Pancake House® franchise in Texas. Since then, it has been our goal to offer quality food and outstanding service to our customers. We are proud to serve foods that are made from scratch and prepared to order. All of our delicious items are made from only premium ingredients that are locally sourced whenever possible.

Tell us about yourself

I was in business school when I decided to major in Hotel/Restaurant Managers. As my first job in the kitchen, I fell in love with The Original Pancake House after I tasted the buttermilk pancakes. I still ask myself every day, "how good are we making those pancakes, and how good are we supporting our people so they can be their best."

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

In my view, our business is based on a lot of small victories every day. You have to be good in many areas - from creating fun and productive workplaces to maximizing Guest experiences, from creating win-win deals with vendors and stakeholders to planning and financing growth. It's a journey!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I enjoy the responsibility and challenge that comes with ownership. It makes me a better person. It's tough to always know what is the right thing to do... but you surround yourself with smart and supportive people to make up for your deficiencies.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Be sure it's what you love to do - don't just do it for the money.
  2. Remember, you can't do it alone. Find and keep the right partnerships.
  3. Plan for where you want to go (enough money, good habits, etc.)... but be prepared for the unexpected.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Be grateful for your gifts... but also for the challenges that come your way.

It's not only liberating but empowering.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://ophdfw.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ophdfw/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ophdfw/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ophdfw


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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