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Jan 30, 2009 10:30 pm US/Eastern
Local Eateries Thrive Despite Recession
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
As the recession deepens, more Americans are looking for great food with inexpensive prices, and that may be the saving grace for some locally owned restaurants that say they are surviving and even thriving in these tough times.
It appears patrons are not only looking for value, but they also want to stay close to home and eat at neighborhood eateries.
"I think we're weathering the recession very well. We're doing well," says mom and pap owner Barbara Gianos. Her family owned restaurant, Jimmy's Place, has been open for 26 years.
As money got tight for customers, Gianos put together a new daily menu with cheaper deals.
"Maybe a few months ago we felt our business was going down a bit, so we decided to do a few things to make it better. As lunch comes we have some specials that make people come in and eat. They want a good amount of food for a smaller price," she said.
Across town in Coral Gables it's a similar story for local restaurant Giardino's Gourmet Salads. Owner Kenny Lugo says affordable prices have been a big draw for getting new customers through the doors.
"Business has been consistent throughout all of our locations," according to Lugo.
But Lugo says a lower price shouldn't spill over into quality.
"With the economy the way it is, (other restaurants) are scaling back on ingredients and you can't do that," said Lugo. "You have to maintain consistency in quality."
Of course local businesses depend heavily on its loyal customer base. It's a unique relationship that is very important especially during tough economic times, and local patrons seem to understand that.
"I like the fact that it's a small business; we're supporting one another," said Claudia Camarero as she enjoys a Caesar salad at Giardino's. "With the economy right now, that's what it needs."
Michael Volante at Jimmy's Place agrees. "The food is good and the prices are good and that's why we come here, but we do think about it as supporting the neighborhood."
These small local restaurants are fortunate to have found their niche despite the recession. Giardino's is actually looking to expand when other companies are closing down.
"We're opening up other locations, South Miami and Downtown, that's why we have so many people here because they are training on site."
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