As a restaurant owner I could relate to everything you said. If I could make an analogy on what it’s like owning a restaurant it would be this… You have a crying newborn baby, a skittish horse, and a goldfish in a bowl with a leak. The baby represents your restaurant, it will always need you and want you to be close by. The skittish horse relates to employees. You will have a few good ones but then you’ll have the rest who will steal, not show up, or show up hungover. The goldfish is YOU. You will always be trying to come up for air while fixing the leak at the same time. Don’t be fooled. It’s very hard work.
Restaurante owner also . I feel exactly the same here . I’m about to close one of my other locations due to me not being able to be in two places at once
@@lepadus7926 thank you very much! I believe I’ll be stronger with just one . I can put all my attention and energy on one till things get better maybe
Well said Amber I'm currently going over the comments section of this Video. And your comment is one of the ones that I'm storing in my library of knowledge. Us Black Men appreciate the support of strong Black Women such as you. Stay Beautiful, Stay Radiant and Prosper. May you receive all of the Blessings the Creator has in store for you! Peace!!!
Man, Anton. This breaks my heart. I own 5 restaurants in Oklahoma (Midnight Grill in Tulsa, OKC, Muskogee, Bartlesville, and Enid). I opened my first store in Tulsa in 2004 when I was 21. I'm 37 now (obvioulsy). If you want to reply to this comment I would love to trade phone numbers and mentor you. Perhaps you could share insights with me I haven't thought of. I watched your video about your business after your first year as well. A couple things you could have done better do stick out to me, if you'll allow me to be blunt, Sir. 1. Employees. Just because you pay more doesn't mean you get more. Always check business references. At least 2. Never hire anyone that can't pass a drug test or smokers. NEVER. Trust me on this one. You're pulling from a smaller pool to start with but saving yourself grief in the long run. Potheads are unreliable and smokers are more interested in smoking than working. Have new employees sign a "contract" stating what is expected of them so it's clear when they flake out, they're fired. I don't care if you have to run the mother fucker all by yourself. Better to be short staffed than poorly staffed. 2. There's no easy money. There's no "better" business. You're Grandma is in the business? That's a valuable resource. She has wisdom. Wisdom is more than education and intellect put together. You should be talking to her every day. Stick with it. Quitters don't win and Winners don't quit. 3. Why do you have a job? If you own a business you have to focus all your energy like the Death Star on that business. 4. Quit trying to have fun and "enjoy" life. You're a grown man, now. You can travel when you're rich. You're "enjoyment" should come from providing for your family and watching your bank account grow. Are the Detroit Pistons paying your bills? Then why you paying theirs'? 5. This is my own philosophy. You need 1 hour a day (365) of quiet time by yourself with no women, kids, friends, video games or cell phones to consider your challenges and how you will conquer them. 6. A different business will not be better, eaiser or more profitable if you're not willing to commit 100% of yourself to the endeavor. You like the restaurant business. You just made some mistakes. Hell, even I've done that. Right now that sting you feel is pride, because you're not a quitter. You don't fail if you don't quit. 7. Everybody wants to be famous. Nobody wants to do the work. Keep at it.
Stuart Otis you’re right on ALL your points. However, I don’t regret moving away from the business at all. I have other businesses that are doing really well. I may do restaurants again in the near future... we’ll see. Thanks for the offer!
i have to say this is the best ever comment i have ever seen in youtube comment. Stuart i definitely would love to talk to you as i am on the process of working on opening my own restaurant. please do drop me an email. would definintley love your help. stay safe during this world lockdown. info.akomanagement@gmail.com
Stuart Otis this is the best life guide in the fewest words ever written. Well done! I'm heading over to your channel to see what more you have to say.
We where in the Spa industry for 15 years. We owned a beauty supply company. Working all the time almost cost me my life November 2018 I had a heart attack and actually died. Thank goodness Dr brought me back. But it changed everything. The Universe forced me to slow down. It's nice to see you realize this before you do get sick! Great video!❤
I feel you. My health was starting to deteriorate also. I wasn't going to let this place take me out. A lot of people felt like I should have stuck with it because of the money. However, I see the bigger picture. Glad you're still with us my friend.
I've learned from you and restaurant owners collectively. Its a tough uphill business. So I'm setting up a fully mobile app based restaurant. Very simple approach. Small menu, no physical location, just a part time commercial kitchen, high volume low inventory based operation.
Dammit, I only found your channel a month or so ago, and was looking forward to grabbing some catfish at your place. Oh well, glad you're listening to what your body is telling you so you don't stress yourself to death, because the restaurant business is brutal. Looking forward to what you do next, Anton!
I appreciate your honesty and openness about the EXPERIENCE that you had. It’s all about experience. And I can see that you are thankful for this experience, keep going man !
No matter how much of a dynamo somebody may be, there is only so much you can do in a day, week, month, year. I'm sorry to hear the news but I understand it and continue to respect your decisions. I too had a friend who worked 50-60 hours a week while pursuing her master's degree in nursing. She had a stroke at age 42 and now her family cares for her full time. Take care, be mindful, and make time to RELAX.
Selling a restaurant is not always as easy as one might think even when it is somewhat profitable. It depends where your business is located. If someone is interested in opening up a business there. Would they want to open the same type of restaurant, do they want their own concept? Do they feel that that it is better to do their own construction. Sometimes business owners rather take the loss than have to wait for someone to buy or for someone to be interested. Ultimately selling is the better option even if it is at a loss but not everyone has the patience for it. This is not like selling a house or an apartment.
It may be profitable with this owner running the business and working 60 hours a week in his feet as he said, but not profitable with an owner not inexperienced in the field or not willing to be that hands on. It is very difficult to find a buyer willing to be that hands on who has the capital to buy a business.
Very astute observation Brother. Its great to be a factor, not a detractor, us Black Men have to support each other. You have great wisdom as well I'll take your comment and store it in my library of knowledge.
Anton I think its really smart. You are obviously dedicated enough for any endeavor your take on but pull the plug when you know its truly not working. The next one will be better. Great vid man, thanks.
I'm sorry to see your restaurant close down. I've been running a profitable Jamaican restaurant for almost 3 years now and I completely understand. I've worked as a restaurant manager prior to owning one for 6 years,that's what really prepared me. What I realized is that in this line of work, people are the ultimate resource. Your staff will either make you or break you. In terms of health, restaurant work in itself will give you poor circulation in your feet, the close proximity of the food is irresistible therefore, the small portions you eat adds up. Leading to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and belly fat. Stress of running the restaurant adds up too.You get nervous when you step away from the restaurant and hear a phone call from one of the workers, you immediately assume the freezer stopped working or the ceiling falling down or some crazy unexpected expensive problem.Too much moving parts. Trust me I understand.
Thank you for sharing your story. I am currently running a restaurant with my mom and I know the feelings. It has been 5 years and there are countless of times that I just wanted to drop everything and quit. However, the money is good and most of the time, I feel happy with customers and my team. It’s almost like a love/hate relationship. I do plan to get out of this business in 5 years that’s why I am planning to invest and prepare for other opportunity.
Omgosh, you LISTENED to your intuition right before the Pandemic, wow! I'm so proud of you. Even though this wasn't a factor during your decision, you did it. Imagine how the impact would have been if you would have waited later!🙏🏽💫
I just want to say I appreciate every single word you said , After the experience in the restaurant business for seven years everything you said is right, Honestly the streets of restaurants dealing with customers complain dealing with employees not show up on the time and above all of that the prices of the material is going double it is not worth it at all , I owned two restaurants, After I saw your video honestly I decide to quit sell both of the restaurants and find different ways to feed my family thank you so much to show me the real picture, sometimes when you are in the middle of the war you cannot see the other side of what is going on , But your explanation was perfect thank you again from the heart
i think its a smart move to keep it moving. that type of business has a lot of moving parts..super time consuming... health and family comes first. good luck on the next adventure.
I've been here before with my restaurant and takeaway business. A lot of time investment for little return. All the best to you brother I'm rooting for you🙌🏾
Well you got to do what you got to do. A man has to know his limitations, and I respect that. I feel family and health are to of the most important things I life. I know what ever you decide to do, you will be successful. Take care my friend.
I was inspired by your last video talking about your experience after one year and then seeing this is the exact opposite lol... I work in IT and have been going back and forth on whether I truly want to commit to weekends, long nights with no sleep, no vacations... holidays etc... and on other hand this has always been my dream. Thanks for sharing your experiences.
Restaurants are a tough business. When they work, it is on very narrow margins. As the owner, you need to know you will be married to the place. You will be there night and day, so you better love love love being there. It works for some people who enjoy that game.
Everyday is a gift and your health is a major contributing factor to quality of life. Anton your video's are inspiring and you are very wise! Wishing you all the best in your next business venture!
Dear Anton, thank you for your information. I fully understand. You have done your best, We all appreciated you sharing your feedback. Thank you so much. Very best wishes for now and future.
Yeah it's just like all those professionals say you need to live and breathe this business. You see some of the shows about failing restaurants and it's so obvious why they're failing. Owners not pulling their weight and trying to cut corners to save a couple bucks, but end up going into heavy debt in the long run. I actually considered getting into the restaurant business when I was younger, but then after finding out about the competition and how much work you'll actually need to put in to stay profitable, I don't think it's the right business for me.
Hey I know a few ppl in the restaurant business. Thanks to the coronavirus they are making like 100k a month! However they also said, it aint easy. You gotta be married to the business. Great video...may God continue to bless you.
Been in and out of restaurant business as have my close friends...you called it....it has to fit with your life...otherwise the restaurant business literally takes your life!
I could see this coming for one main reason Anton! You’re not a cook or chef who loves to cook! My product is greater then all business products today 2024 but I’m not a business guy! But my product matches me since we’re both intelligent! We both are pressing on!😊
Not gonna say I'm sorry that you closed your Restaurant because you seem not to have any regrets. Life is choices and experiences. What you made was a choice of your Queen and your Princess, glad to see that you're not a selfish man and that you base your decisions on what's best for your family, which is your legacy. So you have wisdom beyond your years, I admire your sense of getting out and staying ahead of things. Opening and closing the Restaurant was just a choice, or a decision, whichever way you look at it. You seem focused on what's important in life and that's to stay healthy and strong for the women in you life. So I hope and pray for your continued success in life and looking forward to hearing what your next endeavors will be. Stay smart, stay strong and stay blessed. Peace Brother Daniels.
@@AntonDaniels You got it Brother. Don't look back keep moving forward. When God closes one door, he opens another. In his realm every ending is a new beginning. Peace!
I watched your first video about opening a business and assumed you would fail once you said you jumped right into it. I’m not a hater, just realistic. A restaurant is a business and part of the hustle is doing your homework and having a solid business plan before you buy anything.
Apparently you didn't listen to what I said in the video. I was doing great and profitable. In hindsight, it was a phenomenal decision and perfect timing especially considering what happened with the pandemic.
Well i used to own a deli when I was in New York I understand your concern but there is a lot of different way To deal with it Try’s to get your money back And put it in the market and try to sell it somethings better than nothing good luck brother I wish you the best
Sorry to see you closed. Here's advice from someone who's been in the food biz for 45 yrs. Unless you've worked full time in a restaurant for at least 5 years do not even think of opening one. It takes a WHOLE LOT more than recipes or a wad of cash. Its a complicated business., and you only learn that by working in the trenches. Its Marine Boot Camp on steroids. Best of luck.
This video was really great I always wanted to own a cafe and now I’m re thinking that dream because I’m also the type of person that wants to travel often so I think I need to pick a different career path to start
Restaurants are a passion project but they are all consuming especially in the beginning. It takes time to build your team so you can have space to breath but it is a heck of a struggle, took us six years in the first location to to build our team just to be able to step away for a day off. Ten years for me to be comfortable to hand my line to my Sous so we could open our second. Heart breaking you decided to call it but better to walk with love for the life still in your heart than to let the weight of the grind to start destroying your passion. Good luck with your futures endeavors!
The restaurant business is tough and getting out before Covid was perfect timing, but your getting 3 hours sleep a night tells me you had trouble delegating authority. You should have trained some excellent, trustworthy managers and let them run the restaurant. Your role should have been more quality management and making sure your managers performed well.
Your problem is simple man, too much at one time for one person. It’ll happen to anyone. I hope you chose the option that would give you most success later on, that’s all that really matters.
Wow congrats that you are still smiling after leaving so soon, I just opened my first one November 16th and I'm already feeling some of what you described, I'm working such long hours every day and it's only been about three weeks. This has literally become my life, no time for family, friends or Christmas. Pray for me that I am able to withstand this for the long haul. Good luck in your next adventure
I'm what you would call an interested observer here, and I concur with Anton that if that is your passion...ride it out, but remember we all have a Loving God to rely on and Son Jesus Christ, so know that you don't have to go through it alone. Fall back on them when you're weary they'll be your tower of strength. And remember nothing ventured, nothing gained. Stay Strong, Stay Focused and Stay in Prayer, because when we are at our weakest Jesus is at his strongest!
I'm a resturant co-owner with my dad and is very stressful i don't have my weekends off my dad and i have different views i feel like I'm not getting the equal benefits I'm always there in the kitchen and I'm just tired with a family already we can't even travel i havent had a week off for 3 years already
I've watched a lot of Gordon Ramsay and Bar Rescue and the families that don't work together and don't align always fight and stressed. They usually have an intervention haha
I'm looking into buying an already up and running 50 year established restaurant. I know it's going to require me to move to where the restaurant is because it's an hour and a half from my house and I'll need to be there 12 hours 6 days a week. My question is profitable sure, but profitable enough to live on comfortably?
to many people don't realize what it takes to run your own business...it's tough. ends up being your life....especially anything service related.food service is so competitive! this is a business that is so dependent on your staff,unfortunately in todays world people don't appreciate a good work ethic. always do your best! i'm glad I could retire...I got so tired of having to replace help continuously.
I understand this man because I own just one restaurant I wouldn’t open an other one honestly. I am very fortunate that my restaurant does make a profit but I also own other businesses that generate much more money and take a lot of less time and have more pros then a restaurant but I have a genuine passion for the restaurant /food but my plans is to also sell my restaurant and focus on my other business that have way more potential and growth. PS I literally live in my restaurant you just have to be there 90% of the time…😅
The biggest problem is that this people never work in the restaurant business. Plus you have to replace your self if you don’t want to be on the day to day operations. You have to love the business. Period. Sorry to see This.
I worked on a restaurant business for 19 years and after those years I decided to quit for good no more restaurant jobs for me, I'm glad I did it and it's been 2 months a go that I got out from that shithole.
HEY ANTON DANIEL, I JUST FINISH WATCHING YOUR VIDEOS THEY ARE VERY INFORMATIVE THANK YOU FOR SHARING. DO YOU MIND TELLING US WHAT KIND OF BUSINESS DID YOU JUMP TO AFTER THE RESTAURANT. HOPE YOU DOING GREAT !!
@@AntonDaniels Thank you for your reply Anton, the reason i ask that question is because i'm putting up for sale my restaurant and i wonder how restaurant owners feel after they sale their business. One of my friends said that his doctor told him that he has to choose between his health or restaurant . He said that if he sold his restaurant he will die faster..is amazing to see how people think. Have a good one!!
Hey I just found you today and I am glad I did. I REALLY NEED your expertise! I was looking for info on grease traps ( opening during pandemic, etc). PLEASE do one: 2-3 mins? Why I need one who installs them, how pricey is a basic one. Perhaps a video on your pre-opening checklist (permits, licenses, vendors) I saw your previous video your place was a tax office(?) so you remade that into a restaurant. I am doing the same thing and the builders want to be sure what is required before change over completely. I'm sorry that you had to close, it makes me nervous that you closed because I can see the success still I wonder how successful I will be! I am surprised you are only up the way from me you might be able to come check on our progress! Just looking to open a small bakery and need all the help I can get.
Hi Anton , my name is Zakia , I want to open a safe serve kitchen with a little café in the back , also starting a beauty supply store with a braiding in the back with braiders , do you think i should start with that other then the restaurant ?your input is appreciated love your pod cast as well...
Anton Daniels when my mom use to manage her salon she use to ask the employees what days are good for them. Instead of her telling them the hours. And the employees were there everyday.
@@tanner9956 Interesting concept! It gives the employees a sense of empowerment, they don't see themselves as a nail and the employer as a hammer. Plus it gives the employer schedule flexibility. You're Mom is a very wise woman if she is still alive honor her. I miss my mother dearly but I have no regrets because I honored her till the day she died.
I own a pizzeria I put alot of hours of prep, books, working with bookkeepers, suppliers it's not for everyone, you pretty much have to put your life on hold for the business. What pissed me off trying to find people who wants to work
I hope the experience hasn’t left you cynical. It sounds like your employees were the biggest headache. I’m worried about the work ethic and moral compass of our young people. I’ll say a prayer for you and your family
I’m doing phenomenal and I think the restaurant business is great... for someone who has the time to spend the majority of their day there. I wasn’t willing to continue to do that and I’m glad I realized that quick. Never cynical, always glad for more understanding! Thanks friend.
I know exactly how you feel about people not working because of getting drunk, calling in, just not showing up, and if they show up it’s like 1 week later, merchandise it’s stolen, lots of waste because it’s not their business, it is madness how some employees are not grateful even when paid well. It’s like they are there to destroy the business. I have seen it and seen restaurants going down in the first year from opening or less. Since the borders were closed to illegal immigrants, restaurants, farmers and construction sites have lost that cheap labor and Amazing workers. I was one of them, but now I am a U.S. citizen, and I know how my illegal people work… Now things have changed so much…
Hey Anton, thanks for the video. I am looking at opening a Kava bar. Not as much a restaurant but I am sure similar enough. I believe it can be profitable pretty quick as my buddy just opened one and is profitable month one due to margins. I however don't mind being there I just would like to get systems running to have some time away and a great manager, however I don't want to fool myself and end up hating it. I have never run a brick and mortar biz. Kava is just a drink...and it gets a loyal following that come daily and I find most of them are doing well, but I have some good USP yet it is a risk. I love to work but have always been a pro speaker and trader and burned out of that, tired of travel, masks etc but love my freedom also so just wanted to get your take ? thanks again
On to the next adventure... what do you think I'll do next? Thanks for the support friends.
Corner sto...like the arabz
Perhaps a gas station?... Reach high watever it is
Consider licensing your recipes to food manufacturing companies, and let them make money for you.
Hairdresser?
Umm....I guessing Marijuana Dispensary?
As a restaurant owner I could relate to everything you said. If I could make an analogy on what it’s like owning a restaurant it would be this… You have a crying newborn baby, a skittish horse, and a goldfish in a bowl with a leak. The baby represents your restaurant, it will always need you and want you to be close by. The skittish horse relates to employees. You will have a few good ones but then you’ll have the rest who will steal, not show up, or show up hungover. The goldfish is YOU. You will always be trying to come up for air while fixing the leak at the same time. Don’t be fooled. It’s very hard work.
RESTAURANT OWNER HERE..... YOU ARE SPOT ON!
Restaurante owner also . I feel exactly the same here . I’m about to close one of my other locations due to me not being able to be in two places at once
@@BIGdaddy-vs7og I couldn’t imagine having 2. Stay 💪
@@lepadus7926 thank you very much! I believe I’ll be stronger with just one . I can put all my attention and energy on one till things get better maybe
@@BIGdaddy-vs7ogwhat kind of restaurant?
There are hello's as well as goodbyes in our callings. Purpose is not stagnant. What ever is next I'm sure will be amazing!
Thanks Amber. I appreciate you. I see you making progress also 😉
Well said Amber I'm currently going over the comments section of this Video. And your comment is one of the ones that I'm storing in my library of knowledge. Us Black Men appreciate the support of strong Black Women such as you. Stay Beautiful, Stay Radiant and Prosper. May you receive all of the Blessings the Creator has in store for you! Peace!!!
Man, Anton. This breaks my heart. I own 5 restaurants in Oklahoma (Midnight Grill in Tulsa, OKC, Muskogee, Bartlesville, and Enid). I opened my first store in Tulsa in 2004 when I was 21. I'm 37 now (obvioulsy). If you want to reply to this comment I would love to trade phone numbers and mentor you. Perhaps you could share insights with me I haven't thought of. I watched your video about your business after your first year as well. A couple things you could have done better do stick out to me, if you'll allow me to be blunt, Sir.
1. Employees. Just because you pay more doesn't mean you get more. Always check business references. At least 2. Never hire anyone that can't pass a drug test or smokers. NEVER. Trust me on this one. You're pulling from a smaller pool to start with but saving yourself grief in the long run. Potheads are unreliable and smokers are more interested in smoking than working. Have new employees sign a "contract" stating what is expected of them so it's clear when they flake out, they're fired. I don't care if you have to run the mother fucker all by yourself. Better to be short staffed than poorly staffed.
2. There's no easy money. There's no "better" business. You're Grandma is in the business? That's a valuable resource. She has wisdom. Wisdom is more than education and intellect put together. You should be talking to her every day. Stick with it. Quitters don't win and Winners don't quit.
3. Why do you have a job? If you own a business you have to focus all your energy like the Death Star on that business.
4. Quit trying to have fun and "enjoy" life. You're a grown man, now. You can travel when you're rich. You're "enjoyment" should come from providing for your family and watching your bank account grow. Are the Detroit Pistons paying your bills? Then why you paying theirs'? 5. This is my own philosophy. You need 1 hour a day (365) of quiet time by yourself with no women, kids, friends, video games or cell phones to consider your challenges and how you will conquer them.
6. A different business will not be better, eaiser or more profitable if you're not willing to commit 100% of yourself to the endeavor. You like the restaurant business. You just made some mistakes. Hell, even I've done that. Right now that sting you feel is pride, because you're not a quitter. You don't fail if you don't quit.
7. Everybody wants to be famous. Nobody wants to do the work. Keep at it.
Stuart Otis you’re right on ALL your points. However, I don’t regret moving away from the business at all. I have other businesses that are doing really well. I may do restaurants again in the near future... we’ll see. Thanks for the offer!
i have to say this is the best ever comment i have ever seen in youtube comment. Stuart i definitely would love to talk to you as i am on the process of working on opening my own restaurant. please do drop me an email. would definintley love your help. stay safe during this world lockdown. info.akomanagement@gmail.com
Stuart Otis I’d like to take you up on this offer if possible.
Where is the Midnight Grill in Bartlesville? I'm very familiar with the Bartlesville area and have not seen or heard of it.
Stuart Otis this is the best life guide in the fewest words ever written. Well done! I'm heading over to your channel to see what more you have to say.
We where in the Spa industry for 15 years. We owned a beauty supply company. Working all the time almost cost me my life November 2018 I had a heart attack and actually died. Thank goodness Dr brought me back. But it changed everything. The Universe forced me to slow down. It's nice to see you realize this before you do get sick! Great video!❤
I feel you. My health was starting to deteriorate also. I wasn't going to let this place take me out. A lot of people felt like I should have stuck with it because of the money. However, I see the bigger picture. Glad you're still with us my friend.
@@AntonDaniels thank you! And for those that thought you should stick it out because of the money. Next time say this. What's a life worth?
God has a plan for us all 🙏🏾
I've learned from you and restaurant owners collectively. Its a tough uphill business. So I'm setting up a fully mobile app based restaurant. Very simple approach. Small menu, no physical location, just a part time commercial kitchen, high volume low inventory based operation.
Awesome. You’ve already developed the app?
I can’t agree more. My parents owned a restaurant and you absolutely need to be present all the time! Hard, hard work!
And that ship has sailed 😂
Dammit, I only found your channel a month or so ago, and was looking forward to grabbing some catfish at your place. Oh well, glad you're listening to what your body is telling you so you don't stress yourself to death, because the restaurant business is brutal. Looking forward to what you do next, Anton!
Thanks fam. I’m sure we’ll link up in another capacity 🙏🏾
I appreciate your honesty and openness about the EXPERIENCE that you had. It’s all about experience. And I can see that you are thankful for this experience, keep going man !
It was certainly an experience and I’m super appreciative of it. Thanks fam.
No matter how much of a dynamo somebody may be, there is only so much you can do in a day, week, month, year. I'm sorry to hear the news but I understand it and continue to respect your decisions. I too had a friend who worked 50-60 hours a week while pursuing her master's degree in nursing. She had a stroke at age 42 and now her family cares for her full time. Take care, be mindful, and make time to RELAX.
Never take on more than you can handle physically, and or psychologically- a life lesson.
👀 yeah... you have to take care of yourself. Nothing is worth your good health.
Thats rough man, glad you’re still smiling!
Things are well... nothing to be sad about 😉
If it's not a profitability issue why would you close instead of selling?
Selling a restaurant is not always as easy as one might think even when it is somewhat profitable. It depends where your business is located. If someone is interested in opening up a business there. Would they want to open the same type of restaurant, do they want their own concept? Do they feel that that it is better to do their own construction. Sometimes business owners rather take the loss than have to wait for someone to buy or for someone to be interested. Ultimately selling is the better option even if it is at a loss but not everyone has the patience for it. This is not like selling a house or an apartment.
It may be profitable with this owner running the business and working 60 hours a week in his feet as he said, but not profitable with an owner not inexperienced in the field or not willing to be that hands on. It is very difficult to find a buyer willing to be that hands on who has the capital to buy a business.
Brave dude. In my opinion it takes more courage and wisdom to close the doors than to open them.
Yeah... I think prides keeps it open, especially when you have the resources. Gotta know when to walk away.
Very astute observation Brother. Its great to be a factor, not a detractor, us Black Men have to support each other. You have great wisdom as well I'll take your comment and store it in my library of knowledge.
Anton I think its really smart. You are obviously dedicated enough for any endeavor your take on but pull the plug when you know its truly not working. The next one will be better. Great vid man, thanks.
I'm sorry to see your restaurant close down. I've been running a profitable Jamaican restaurant for almost 3 years now and I completely understand. I've worked as a restaurant manager prior to owning one for 6 years,that's what really prepared me. What I realized is that in this line of work, people are the ultimate resource. Your staff will either make you or break you. In terms of health, restaurant work in itself will give you poor circulation in your feet, the close proximity of the food is irresistible therefore, the small portions you eat adds up. Leading to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and belly fat. Stress of running the restaurant adds up too.You get nervous when you step away from the restaurant and hear a phone call from one of the workers, you immediately assume the freezer stopped working or the ceiling falling down or some crazy unexpected expensive problem.Too much moving parts. Trust me I understand.
Don’t feel sorry for me... it was the best decision I’ve ever made 🙏🏾
Running a Jamaican restaurant here in Killeen. It rough, but hanging in there.
Thank you for sharing your story. I am currently running a restaurant with my mom and I know the feelings. It has been 5 years and there are countless of times that I just wanted to drop everything and quit. However, the money is good and most of the time, I feel happy with customers and my team. It’s almost like a love/hate relationship.
I do plan to get out of this business in 5 years that’s why I am planning to invest and prepare for other opportunity.
Getting out at the time I did was the best decision I’ve ever made
Omgosh, you LISTENED to your intuition right before the Pandemic, wow! I'm so proud of you. Even though this wasn't a factor during your decision, you did it. Imagine how the impact would have been if you would have waited later!🙏🏽💫
The greatest timing in the world... God is the greatest!
He would’ve made so much more money with sayin pandemic put him out the government was funding businesses even while they took losses
I just want to say I appreciate every single word you said , After the experience in the restaurant business for seven years everything you said is right, Honestly the streets of restaurants dealing with customers complain dealing with employees not show up on the time and above all of that the prices of the material is going double it is not worth it at all , I owned two restaurants, After I saw your video honestly I decide to quit sell both of the restaurants and find different ways to feed my family thank you so much to show me the real picture, sometimes when you are in the middle of the war you cannot see the other side of what is going on , But your explanation was perfect thank you again from the heart
i think its a smart move to keep it moving. that type of business has a lot of moving parts..super time consuming... health and family comes first. good luck on the next adventure.
Yeah, super time consuming.
I've been here before with my restaurant and takeaway business. A lot of time investment for little return. All the best to you brother I'm rooting for you🙌🏾
🙏🏾
As an inspiring restaurateur I highly appreciate your honest feedback. Thank you. It’s always good to know what u r getting into.
Well you got to do what you got to do. A man has to know his limitations, and I respect that. I feel family and health are to of the most important things I life. I know what ever you decide to do, you will be successful. Take care my friend.
Thanks fam. I’m super happy with life right now.
Good luck with your future endeavor, Anton. You will always be successful, no doubt. On to the next adventure...
Thanks family. I appreciate you
Good employees are hard to find . People who actually are hard workers already have a job.
Harder than ever
Thank you for sharing your story with us my Brother, may your future lead you to what you want in life, God be with you....
I was inspired by your last video talking about your experience after one year and then seeing this is the exact opposite lol... I work in IT and have been going back and forth on whether I truly want to commit to weekends, long nights with no sleep, no vacations... holidays etc... and on other hand this has always been my dream. Thanks for sharing your experiences.
😂 It was a profitable business. And in hindsight, I got out at the perfect time.
Do IT!!! It’s a dream of mines as well! Don’t let this man experience interferes with your dreams and reality!!
You said everything I felt about running my daycare. Felt so awesome to have someone to relate to.
Restaurants are a tough business. When they work, it is on very narrow margins. As the owner, you need to know you will be married to the place. You will be there night and day, so you better love love love being there. It works for some people who enjoy that game.
I learned quickly that this was not the lifestyle I wanted to be married to long term. Well said.
Everyday is a gift and your health is a major contributing factor to quality of life. Anton your video's are inspiring and you are very wise! Wishing you all the best in your next business venture!
Thank you so much for the well wishes
Health is everything.
Love the honesty and real talk. 💪🏻
Time
Boys and girls, does it matter.
I am thinking of opening a philly cheesesteak business and you might be saving me from making a mistake- thank you for your candid knowledge-
You’re welcome... look at all sides. It’s always best to be informed
Dear Anton, thank you for your information. I fully understand. You have done your best, We all appreciated you sharing your feedback. Thank you so much. Very best wishes for now and future.
Good luck with the next step bro. Sorry to hear it didn’t go as planned but you got some invaluable education. Keep your head high!
I’ve never been in a move positive place. Everything is good my friend.
Tbh I never saw you as a restauranteur. It is a ball and chain and you are a creative, free spirit.
That’s pretty true. You hit the nail on the head.
Yeah it's just like all those professionals say you need to live and breathe this business. You see some of the shows about failing restaurants and it's so obvious why they're failing. Owners not pulling their weight and trying to cut corners to save a couple bucks, but end up going into heavy debt in the long run. I actually considered getting into the restaurant business when I was younger, but then after finding out about the competition and how much work you'll actually need to put in to stay profitable, I don't think it's the right business for me.
I think you made the right decision. You have to base everything you do in your life around the business and I am no longer willing to do that.
Hey I know a few ppl in the restaurant business. Thanks to the coronavirus they are making like 100k a month! However they also said, it aint easy. You gotta be married to the business. Great video...may God continue to bless you.
That is awesome! God bless you also.
This 💯 thanks for educating your people and not withholding only information but drive and encouragement to do great things!!! 🔥🔥
You're welcome
Best of luck to you, Anton! I know you’ll go far.
Let’s keep the journey going.
Been in and out of restaurant business as have my close friends...you called it....it has to fit with your life...otherwise the restaurant business literally takes your life!
It’s sooooooo demanding
I could see this coming for one main reason Anton! You’re not a cook or chef who loves to cook! My product is greater then all business products today 2024 but I’m not a business guy! But my product matches me since we’re both intelligent! We both are pressing on!😊
Not gonna say I'm sorry that you closed your Restaurant because you seem not to have any regrets. Life is choices and experiences. What you made was a choice of your Queen and your Princess, glad to see that you're not a selfish man and that you base your decisions on what's best for your family, which is your legacy. So you have wisdom beyond your years, I admire your sense of getting out and staying ahead of things. Opening and closing the Restaurant was just a choice, or a decision, whichever way you look at it. You seem focused on what's important in life and that's to stay healthy and strong for the women in you life. So I hope and pray for your continued success in life and looking forward to hearing what your next endeavors will be. Stay smart, stay strong and stay blessed. Peace Brother Daniels.
Thank you so much for the compliment and we’ll wishes! I appreciate you 🙏🏾
@@AntonDaniels You got it Brother. Don't look back keep moving forward. When God closes one door, he opens another. In his realm every ending is a new beginning. Peace!
Wow! Sad to see the restaurant go! I didn’t get a chance to try your food! But can’t wait to see your next big adventure!
More coming soon 😉
I watched your first video about opening a business and assumed you would fail once you said you jumped right into it. I’m not a hater, just realistic. A restaurant is a business and part of the hustle is doing your homework and having a solid business plan before you buy anything.
Apparently you didn't listen to what I said in the video. I was doing great and profitable. In hindsight, it was a phenomenal decision and perfect timing especially considering what happened with the pandemic.
Man loved your videos, you really just opened my eyes for things that i wasn’t aware of. Thanks 🙏🏽
Well i used to own a deli when I was in New York I understand your concern but there is a lot of different way To deal with it Try’s to get your money back And put it in the market and try to sell it somethings better than nothing good luck brother I wish you the best
I’ve explored that option
Sorry to see you closed. Here's advice from someone who's been in the food biz for 45 yrs. Unless you've worked full time in a restaurant for at least 5 years do not even think of opening one. It takes a WHOLE LOT more than recipes or a wad of cash. Its a complicated business., and you only learn that by working in the trenches. Its Marine Boot Camp on steroids. Best of luck.
I am 100 percent positive I made the right decision. It's been a year now and it was absolutely the right choice.
This video was really great I always wanted to own a cafe and now I’m re thinking that dream because I’m also the type of person that wants to travel often so I think I need to pick a different career path to start
Don't do it unless you are prepared to be married to the business.
Restaurants are a passion project but they are all consuming especially in the beginning. It takes time to build your team so you can have space to breath but it is a heck of a struggle, took us six years in the first location to to build our team just to be able to step away for a day off. Ten years for me to be comfortable to hand my line to my Sous so we could open our second. Heart breaking you decided to call it but better to walk with love for the life still in your heart than to let the weight of the grind to start destroying your passion. Good luck with your futures endeavors!
I'm about to open a bar. My plan is to stay small.
Hope all goes well! Good luck 🍀
Keep pushing gotdammit... Great job man....👌dope vid
Thanks fam
Sorry to hear that you are closing the restaurant. May God continue to bless you on your journey.
Thank you, I appreciate it
Do what's best for you and yours. I'm sadden that I didn't get a chance to partake in this destination. Looking to the future.
No worries, we’ll link up soon
The restaurant business is tough and getting out before Covid was perfect timing, but your getting 3 hours sleep a night tells me you had trouble delegating authority. You should have trained some excellent, trustworthy managers and let them run the restaurant. Your role should have been more quality management and making sure your managers performed well.
I just watched your Gambling video, then I watched this God bless and keep going! life is short make it count
Thanks fam... I’m in a great space 🙏🏾
Your problem is simple man, too much at one time for one person. It’ll happen to anyone. I hope you chose the option that would give you most success later on, that’s all that really matters.
I’m pretty happy walking away
Wow congrats that you are still smiling after leaving so soon, I just opened my first one November 16th and I'm already feeling some of what you described, I'm working such long hours every day and it's only been about three weeks. This has literally become my life, no time for family, friends or Christmas. Pray for me that I am able to withstand this for the long haul. Good luck in your next adventure
🙏🏾 congratulations and I hope all is well. If you love it, ride it out.
I'm what you would call an interested observer here, and I concur with Anton that if that is your passion...ride it out, but remember we all have a Loving God to rely on and Son Jesus Christ, so know that you don't have to go through it alone. Fall back on them when you're weary they'll be your tower of strength. And remember nothing ventured, nothing gained. Stay Strong, Stay Focused and Stay in Prayer, because when we are at our weakest Jesus is at his strongest!
I feel your pain 😅 I know exactly. Blessings and congratulations..:
Good luck with your future endeavors
Thanks for the insight
More to come my friend
I'm a resturant co-owner with my dad and is very stressful i don't have my weekends off my dad and i have different views i feel like I'm not getting the equal benefits I'm always there in the kitchen and I'm just tired with a family already we can't even travel i havent had a week off for 3 years already
I've watched a lot of Gordon Ramsay and Bar Rescue and the families that don't work together and don't align always fight and stressed. They usually have an intervention haha
I'm looking into buying an already up and running 50 year established restaurant. I know it's going to require me to move to where the restaurant is because it's an hour and a half from my house and I'll need to be there 12 hours 6 days a week. My question is profitable sure, but profitable enough to live on comfortably?
No if he was getting rich he would have stayed open
Glad you got out before the Covid-19 shutdowns.
Perfect timing
Best of luck to you and all your businesses❤️
Thanks love ❤️
Wishing you the best on your new adventures!
Much appreciated 🙏🏾
Thanks for sharing this video. Gave me a ton to think about.
Glad it was helpful!
to many people don't realize what it takes to run your own business...it's tough. ends up being your life....especially anything service related.food service is so competitive! this is a business that is so dependent on your staff,unfortunately in todays world people don't appreciate a good work ethic. always do your best! i'm glad I could retire...I got so tired of having to replace help continuously.
Yeah, it’s hard to find good help and the right peolle
@@AntonDaniels in small business your staff can make or break you....
Incredible timing and exist 👌🏾
Sure was 😉
@@AntonDaniels - Do you offer a short course on entrepreneurship that I can buy, I'm young guy that's interested learning from you.
I understand this man because I own just one restaurant I wouldn’t open an other one honestly. I am very fortunate that my restaurant does make a profit but I also own other businesses that generate much more money and take a lot of less time and have more pros then a restaurant but I have a genuine passion for the restaurant /food but my plans is to also sell my restaurant and focus on my other business that have way more potential and growth. PS I literally live in my restaurant you just have to be there 90% of the time…😅
Thank you for sharing . Are you selling equipment and where are you located
Keep pushing bro God is with you.
Thanks fam
I love my restaurant so much I am not selling my in this difficult time as well. I work 6 to 9 everyday.
That’s cool. For me, life is much, much better since I got out.
Amen, sold both of resteraunts last April, my health and relationship with family has changed dramatically
This is why I don’t want to be a business owner. I love my evenings and weekends. Owning my own would make me miserable so I don’t blame you at all!
Yup, all that time is gone 😂
The biggest problem is that this people never work in the restaurant business. Plus you have to replace your self if you don’t want to be on the day to day operations. You have to love the business. Period. Sorry to see This.
I worked on a restaurant business for 19 years and after those years I decided to quit for good no more restaurant jobs for me, I'm glad I did it and it's been 2 months a go that I got out from that shithole.
😂😂😂😂😂😂
The last word made me laugh.
Congratulations, looking out for family is most important. Have fun traveling hope you start a separate vlog for your travel adventures.
That might not be a bad idea 🤔
The restaurant business has the thinnest profit margins. It is also one of the fewest industries where inventory decreases in value.
HEY ANTON DANIEL, I JUST FINISH WATCHING YOUR VIDEOS THEY ARE VERY INFORMATIVE THANK YOU FOR SHARING.
DO YOU MIND TELLING US WHAT KIND OF BUSINESS DID YOU JUMP TO AFTER THE RESTAURANT. HOPE YOU DOING GREAT !!
I'm doing well. I'm continuing to focus on real estate and mobile application development. Great question.
@@AntonDaniels Thank you for your reply Anton, the reason i ask that question is because i'm putting up for sale my restaurant and i wonder how restaurant owners feel after they sale their business. One of my friends said that his doctor told him that he has to choose between his health or restaurant . He said that if he sold his restaurant he will die faster..is amazing to see how people think. Have a good one!!
My life is awesome and relaxing without the day to day stress from the restaurant. I’m glad I got out!
Hey I just found you today and I am glad I did. I REALLY NEED your expertise! I was looking for info on grease traps ( opening during pandemic, etc). PLEASE do one: 2-3 mins? Why I need one who installs them, how pricey is a basic one. Perhaps a video on your pre-opening checklist (permits, licenses, vendors) I saw your previous video your place was a tax office(?) so you remade that into a restaurant. I am doing the same thing and the builders want to be sure what is required before change over completely.
I'm sorry that you had to close, it makes me nervous that you closed because I can see the success still I wonder how successful I will be! I am surprised you are only up the way from me you might be able to come check on our progress! Just looking to open a small bakery and need all the help I can get.
I’ll look into it, but there is plenty of information online
Totally understand. I learn so much from you.
And more is coming
Would you have considered yourself a small restaurant? Like a cafe or bistro, something you could’ve ran on your own without much help?
Good luck with the next chapter , Anton .
I appreciate it Kev
Hi Anton , my name is Zakia , I want to open a safe serve kitchen with a little café in the back , also starting a beauty supply store with a braiding in the back with braiders , do you think i should start with that other then the restaurant ?your input is appreciated love your pod cast as well...
Life does send us in many directions and we have to choose wisely
And makes smart adjustments as necessary
I read a book that said always avoid employees
And that book was 100 percent correct
Anton Daniels when my mom use to manage her salon she use to ask the employees what days are good for them. Instead of her telling them the hours. And the employees were there everyday.
@@tanner9956 Interesting concept! It gives the employees a sense of empowerment, they don't see themselves as a nail and the employer as a hammer. Plus it gives the employer schedule flexibility. You're Mom is a very wise woman if she is still alive honor her. I miss my mother dearly but I have no regrets because I honored her till the day she died.
What that means?
What happed to the space where your restaurant once stood and is that space still up for sale or rent?
😊 living and learning 😊❤!
was the franchising route not an option? share the journey with other Financially and emotionally invested partners?
Reach out to me and I’ll see what I can do
I own a pizzeria I put alot of hours of prep, books, working with bookkeepers, suppliers it's not for everyone, you pretty much have to put your life on hold for the business. What pissed me off trying to find people who wants to work
I hope the experience hasn’t left you cynical. It sounds like your employees were the biggest headache. I’m worried about the work ethic and moral compass of our young people. I’ll say a prayer for you and your family
I’m doing phenomenal and I think the restaurant business is great... for someone who has the time to spend the majority of their day there.
I wasn’t willing to continue to do that and I’m glad I realized that quick. Never cynical, always glad for more understanding! Thanks friend.
Is good credit require to rent out a restaurant space?
No, not at all
Sorry to hear that you closed the restaurant. But I can understand. Blessings
I appreciate your honesty, thanks for sharing!
You are welcome. Thanks for the feedback.
Immigrants are used to working hard and thats why they make the most successful restautanteers
Good stuff bro! 💯💯💯 You are right!
Thank you
I know exactly how you feel about people not working because of getting drunk, calling in, just not showing up, and if they show up it’s like 1 week later, merchandise it’s stolen, lots of waste because it’s not their business, it is madness how some employees are not grateful even when paid well. It’s like they are there to destroy the business. I have seen it and seen restaurants going down in the first year from opening or less. Since the borders were closed to illegal immigrants, restaurants, farmers and construction sites have lost that cheap labor and Amazing workers. I was one of them, but now I am a U.S. citizen, and I know how my illegal people work… Now things have changed so much…
Undocumented.
The word illegal shouldn't be used to refer to individuals.
Man what happen to the documentary you were working on? I would love for you to be my business mentor
I’m still working on it
It’s very hard to close business but ur so brave
Gold Information here thank you
Good video thanks 🙏🏾
Thank you.
Why not sell the business or hire a full time manager ?
Hey Anton, thanks for the video. I am looking at opening a Kava bar. Not as much a restaurant but I am sure similar enough. I believe it can be profitable pretty quick as my buddy just opened one and is profitable month one due to margins. I however don't mind being there I just would like to get systems running to have some time away and a great manager, however I don't want to fool myself and end up hating it. I have never run a brick and mortar biz. Kava is just a drink...and it gets a loyal following that come daily and I find most of them are doing well, but I have some good USP yet it is a risk. I love to work but have always been a pro speaker and trader and burned out of that, tired of travel, masks etc but love my freedom also so just wanted to get your take ? thanks again
How much is your rent? Not possible to push thru?
Why would I want to push through. I made the right decision and got out at the right time.