New Businesses
Whisker?s Restaurant ? The First 18 Months
Michael and I came from Orlando, Florida in June 2010 to purchase Whisker?s Restaurant. Michael retired from the Navy in 1996. He was laid off in early 2010, and we decided to risk it all and purchase a business. After performing hours of research on line, we made the move to Middle Tennessee. Relying on Michael?s background in business development and my experience in the restaurant industry, we had high expectations.
Needless to say we had some difficulties getting started. In the beginning of 2010 many catfish farmers in Mississippi and Alabama closed almost 40% of their ponds which resulted in catfish going from $41.00 a case to $72.00. And on top of all that, Michael and I had no idea of the impact the GM plant closing would have on the restaurant.
As we learned very quickly, there are many mistakes new restaurateurs make that can turn business away. One of the most damaging mistakes we made was our decision to serve imported catfish and to stop serving complimentary pickled tomato relish.
So in March of 2011, we hired a local business consultant who specializes in restaurant management to come in and review our entire operation. He uncovered several issues, including theft, along with management and overall incompetence that would negatively impact any operation.
Let?s fast forward to the present. We have been serving only U. S. Farm Raised Catfish since early summer 2011 and we are back to offering pickled tomato relish. We have a menu that provides great tasting catfish, steaks, chicken and seafood entrees that are priced just right. Whisker?s customers tell us all the time how great the food is. It?s nothing fancy, just good food at a reasonable price.
In September 2011 our son Mike joined us and he has been an incredible help in the smooth operation of Whisker?s. He works in the kitchen, helps with management and gives Michael a well-deserved break now and then.
We are still learning more every day about how to make Whisker?s successful. Michael, Mike and I are committed to making Whisker?s the place to go when looking for quality food, a great atmosphere at a reasonable price. We will continue to implement more fresh options to the menu. Whisker?s also offers catering, primarily drop off style. However, we are able to serve if needed.
Whisker?s looks forward to growing with the Spring Hill, Franklin and Columbia communities and we will continue to pray God will bless our restaurant and those who enter our doors.
By Margie Pollard
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