As Coastal Bend Restaurant Week 2024 is in full swing, many restaurant owners are excited to showcase their culinary creativity. While this event highlights some challenges, it also serves as a testament to the resilience and innovation of our local establishments.
Galley Bistro and the Art of Innovation
Zelina Rodriguez, co-owner of Galley Bistro and Bake Shop, shared her thoughts on the restaurant’s second time participating in Coastal Bend Restaurant Week 2024. Last year, they marked their debut, allowing Zelina to craft a unique menu.
“We saw a nice boost in people coming in specifically for the restaurant week menu,” Zelina explained. “We had to create something different from our regular offerings, so people could experience something fresh.”
Zelina’s culinary journey is impressive. She graduated from the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School and honed her expertise in French cuisine while working with top chefs around the world before bringing her talents back to Coastal Bend. In 2021, she and three friends launched a catering business, U.S.S. Chefs, which quickly led to the opening of their restaurant just a year ago.
However, despite the excitement of Coastal Bend Restaurant Week 2024, Zelina admitted that running a restaurant takes a lot of work.
Financial Struggles Amidst Creativity
Zelina shared some of the financial struggles her restaurant faces. “It’s so hard. I feel like restaurants haven’t bounced back to pre-pandemic levels,“ she said. The pandemic has hit us hard. One of the primary challenges, according to Zelina, is the need for consistent community support. Some days, the restaurant barely makes $200, and their catering business helps keep things afloat.
The financial pressure affects the business and the employees. Zelina wishes to do more for her staff but explains that raising wages would result in higher menu prices, which could drive customers away. “If we raise prices, customers complain. But if they don’t tip, we have to raise prices. It’s a tough balance,“ she said.
The Vision Behind Coastal Bend Restaurant Week 2024
Mirza Pearson, the founder of Coastal Bend Restaurant Week 2024, started the event four years ago during the pandemic. She aimed to spotlight the region’s incredible seafood, coastal atmosphere, and local culinary talent.
“We have everything needed for this to be a major event,“ Mirza said. However, keeping the event alive has proven to be a challenge. She fears this year could be the last, as several participating restaurants have closed due to financial struggles.
“One of my main goals is to highlight the flavors of the Coastal Bend and recognize the amazing talents we have here,“ Mirza said. She also pointed out the lack of financial support from the city, unlike other Texas cities that receive local funding for similar events.
Hope for the Future
Despite the difficulties, both Zelina and Mirza remain hopeful for the future. Zelina expressed optimism about this year’s event, noting that her passion for the culinary arts drives her to continue. “When you do what you love, it’s not a job. It’s a passion for us,“ she emphasized.
As Coastal Bend Restaurant Week 2024 continues from September 20-27, both women encourage the community to support local restaurants and help spread the word about the event.