Are you considering starting a restaurant business in Kenya? While there are certainly risks and challenges involved, it can also be an exciting and rewarding venture. If you’re wondering where to start, we have some advice: start small. The best type of restaurant business to start is the small type, the kind where a plate of chicken goes for Ksh 200, not Ksh 450. These types of restaurants are the most visited by Kenyans, particularly in today’s challenging economic climate where many people are trying to downsize their spending.
The Benefits of Starting a Small Restaurant Business
The larger, more expensive restaurants are struggling to maintain profitability as sales decline due to people’s changing spending habits. With money being harder to come by, it’s not surprising that Kenyans are increasingly looking for affordable meals. This is where small restaurants come in. The local vibandas or hotels are where most Kenyans go to have a meal, and this is where you can make a name for yourself by offering quality food at affordable prices.
Starting a small restaurant business in Kenya is an attractive option because you don’t need a lot of capital to get started, and the returns can be significant. All you really need is a good location, quality food, and excellent customer service. With these three things, you can attract customers and keep them coming back.
Finding the Perfect Location
The first thing you’ll need to do is find a good location. Ideally, you want to be in an area with a lot of foot traffic, such as near a market or bus stop. This way, you’ll attract people who are passing by and looking for a quick, affordable meal. It’s also important to ensure that your restaurant is clean and hygienic, as no one wants to eat in a dirty environment.
Offering Quality Food
Next, you’ll need to focus on the quality of the food you serve. You should aim to have a variety of dishes that appeal to different tastes, whether that’s local cuisine like ugali and sukuma wiki, or international dishes like Chinese or Indian food. The most important thing is that the food is fresh, tasty, and generously portioned.
Sourcing Fresh Organic Produce from Farmers: A Must for Small Restaurant Businesses
If you’re thinking of starting a small restaurant business in Kenya, one of the most important factors to consider is where you will source your ingredients. In today’s food landscape, more and more people are concerned about the quality of their food and the impact it has on their health and the environment. This is why sourcing fresh, organic produce from local farmers is a must.
Why Choose Organic Produce?
Organic produce is grown without the use of harmful pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, which means it’s healthier for both you and the environment. It’s also fresher and more flavorful, as it’s often picked and delivered to you the same day.
Sourcing from Local Farmers
By sourcing your ingredients from local farmers, you’re not only supporting the local economy but also ensuring that you’re getting the freshest, most nutritious produce available. Many small-scale farmers in Kenya grow a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and they often use traditional, sustainable farming practices that are better for the environment.
How to Find Local Farmers
There are a number of ways to find local farmers who can supply your restaurant with fresh, organic produce. One of the best ways is to attend farmers’ markets, where you can meet and chat with local farmers and sample their produce. You can also ask around in your community, or do some research online to find farmers in your area.
Benefits of Sourcing from Local Farmers
In addition to supporting the local economy and getting fresh, organic produce, there are several other benefits to sourcing from local farmers. For one, it allows you to build a relationship with your suppliers, which can lead to better prices and more consistent quality. It also helps you to create a unique menu that showcases the best local ingredients, which can help set your restaurant apart from the competition.
Excellent Customer Service
Finally, customer service is crucial. Customers want to feel appreciated and valued, so it’s essential that your staff are polite and courteous. You should also aim to provide quick, efficient service, as nobody wants to wait for hours to be served.
Conclusion
In conclusion, starting a small restaurant business in Kenya is a great way to enter the market and establish yourself as a player in the industry. While it may seem daunting, it’s actually an affordable venture with potentially high returns. Remember to focus on the basics: a good location, quality food, and excellent customer service. By doing so, you’ll attract customers and build a loyal following, leading to long-term success for your business.
