17 October 2024

Summary

In this engaging interview, Farah, the owner of Farah Western Food, shares her journey of opening a western cuisine restaurant that caters to all social classes. Initially inspired by her time abroad and her love for cooking, she began her business in Bangi and later moved to her hometown. Farah emphasizes her commitment to affordability, making western dishes accessible to the local community. With four years of operation, her most popular dish is the Nasi Goreng Lesung Batu, known for its unique preparation. Farah discusses challenges, marketing strategies, and her plans for business expansion, highlighting her passion for cooking and community support.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kak Farah runs a Western food business called 'Farah Western Food'.
• 🍽️ She combines Western cuisine with traditional Malaysian dishes, like fried rice.
• 📍 Initially started in Bangi, she relocated her business to her home in her village.
• 💰 Kak Farah aims to make Western food affordable for everyone, not just the upper class.
• 🌶️ Her signature dish is 'nasi goreng Lesung Batu', made with freshly pounded chili paste.
• 📱 Marketing efforts began with Facebook and expanded to TikTok and WhatsApp groups.
• 👥 Staffing is a challenge she faces, currently employing three permanent staff members.
• 🕔 The restaurant operates from Monday to Saturday, from 5 PM to 10 PM.
• 🎉 She finds fulfillment in receiving compliments about her cooking from customers.
• 📈 Future plans include expanding marketing efforts and potentially increasing seating capacity.

Q & A

What is the name of the interviewee?

The interviewee's name is Farah.

What type of food does Farah's restaurant serve?

Farah's restaurant, named 'Farah Western Food,' serves Western food as well as fried dishes.

Why did Farah choose to start a food business?

Farah developed a passion for cooking Western food while living abroad, where she learned to cook from friends.

Where did Farah initially start her business?

Farah initially started her business in Bangi, but later moved it to her home village.

What is the pricing strategy Farah employs for her food?

Farah's pricing strategy is to keep her prices low to attract a broader customer base, rather than focusing solely on profit.

What is the most popular dish at Farah's restaurant?

The most popular dish at Farah's restaurant is 'Nasi Goreng Lesung Batu,' made with fresh chili ground using a mortar and pestle.

How long has Farah been operating her restaurant?

Farah has been operating her restaurant for over four years.

What promotional strategies does Farah use for her restaurant?

Farah promotes her restaurant through Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp community groups.

What challenges has Farah faced in her business?

Farah has faced staffing issues, specifically problems with staff attendance.

What are Farah's future plans for her restaurant?

Farah plans to hire a marketing person to promote her restaurant further, increase staff, and possibly expand the dining area.