Sandwich shop owner: Consistency, quality are keys to success

What was your career path before becoming a small-business owner?

I’ve always been a businessman. My education is in marketing and business.

My parents are late into their 70s and still own a restaurant. Since a young age, I’ve seen them work countless hours to provide the best for us; they are truly my inspiration to work hard and continue to grind.

What is your business philosophy?

Consistency is key. Create a system. Once the system is in place, everything else will run smoothly. Always be focused and consistent. You want your customers to know what they’re getting once they walk through your doors.

What’s your most popular sandwich or entrée?

Some of the most popular sandwiches are the Spicy Skyler — an Italian roll filled with salami, pepperoni, capicola, ham, roasted peppers, provolone cheese, pepper jack cheese and hot giardiniera spread — and the Turkey Avocado, which features turkey on toasted multigrain bread with avocado, mayonnaise, tomato, bacon, cucumber and green leaf lettuce. The staff favorite is the Little Ruby — oven-roasted turkey, bacon, jalapeño popper spread, spicy mayonnaise, roasted peppers, provolone and pepper jack.

What form of marketing has been most successful for you?

I’m old-fashioned; I believe word of mouth is key. Also, I like giving away T-shirts and free samples when I get a chance. It’s all about the customer service.

What’s the best business advice you’ve received?

Quality products and ingredients, quality service, quality relationships, etc. Nothing can beat quality.

What is the best part about doing business in Las Vegas?

We often get customers who are visiting. It’s nice that they choose to come see us and enjoy our sandwiches.

What obstacles has your business overcome?

We are a new business, so there are many obstacles all the time, much like many other new and maybe even established businesses. However, we’re always looking to reinvent ourselves and meet our customers’ needs.

What do you do in your free time?

I played ice hockey for more than 14 years. I’m a huge Golden Knights fan. I also like to bowl. It helps me relieve stress, and hitting those pins gives me great satisfaction.

Also, my other favorite thing to do is take my family around town and try all the great cuisines Las Vegas has to offer.

Anything else you want to share?

Supporting local businesses is crucial for every city. Since Las Vegas is a top destination for visitors from around the world, it would be nice to show the world how the city can have a strong local community.