Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration comes from the people I serve every day and the legacy I’m building for my daughter. I watch families celebrate milestones and regulars become part of our lives, and it pushes me to show up and get it right. I’m also inspired by small business owners who keep going no matter what. It reminds me this isn’t just about profit, it’s about impact and leaving something meaningful behind.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by a simple belief: community above everything. On the hard days, I remind myself this isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a place people rely on. Families celebrate here, regulars walk in like it’s home, and my team depends on me to lead the right way. That responsibility keeps me going. I’m also driven by building something my daughter can be proud to carry forward one day.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d invest it back into the restaurant and the community that supports us. That means upgrading equipment and the dining space, but also expanding our ability to give back through fundraisers, school partnerships, and local events. We’ve built our business on community above everything, and this would let us do that at a bigger level while creating a better experience for our guests and team.