Today we’d like to introduce you to Dustin Coker.
Hi Dustin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2018, in a season of transition from a previous career and the start of family life, we became aware of a new mixed-use commercial development in the renovation of a historic textile factory in our hometown of Dalton, Ga. We believed this location had all the potential to be the site of a coffee shop/restaurant concept we had been considering and dreaming about, in one form or another, for years prior.
We had conceived of creating a place that was both a source of quality food, made healthy, wholesome and relatively convenient, as well as a destination for people to meet and for community to take place since people love to come together over food and drink. The vision and menu certainly evolved over time as the effort took shape and eventually came to life, but our desire was to establish a business that was authentic to our local heritage, yet brought in elements from the broader culture and featured products from regional producers. We also hoped to be a bridge to wise lifestyle and nutrition choices, so we focused on making healthy foods taste good and be accessible to the average person. So far, this balanced yet diverse approach seems to be working out.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Some of the challenges we’ve experienced are those common to all small business start-ups and the difficulties of maintaining a restaurant, including finding and keeping quality employees (though we have been quite fortunate for the most part), balancing payroll and scheduling demands when business is unpredictable, and keeping costs down in a turbulent and inflationary economy. We’ve dissolved partnerships and had friendships fractured, as the dynamic of people problems are exaggerated all the more in the intensity of a restaurant environment. Often times there doesn’t seem to be rhyme or reason to the level of business that can be expected any given day or week. Add to the uncertainty, the societal lockdown and health concerns of an extended global pandemic scenario, and it’s safe to say it’s been an unpredictable journey. But what doesn’t kill your small business, will make it stronger, right? We’re thankful to the grace of God alone to not only get us through but allow us to truly enjoy the process in the midst of all its trials.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
From the beginning, we intended to offer a meaningful vegetarian/vegan selection, as well as allergy-sensitive options, but along the way we realized we could pull off an entirely gluten-free menu. These features have become a significant aspect of our identity, proving to be attractive to a customer base that is increasingly aware of related health issues and concerns without many other valid alternatives. Many others, while less interested in these details, thoroughly enjoy the beautiful atmosphere we’ve created in this historic space and are wonderful in their support of us through their regular patronage. We are proud of the local business we’ve created, contributing to the overall quality of life of our small town. There is great satisfaction in knowing the community appreciates Native as a valuable option in their daily routine, as well the out-of-town traveler discovering and enjoying Native as they journey along their way.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
For us personally, our Christian faith is central to all we do. Though we have varied interests, including especially a well-rounded approach to health and wellness, the wisdom afforded in the Bible is really all that keeps us centered on the things that matter most and allows us the perspective to handle every situation with the best attitude.
Pricing:
- Average ticket price: $15-20
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nativekitchendalton.com
- Instagram: nativekitchendalton
- Facebook: nativekitchendalton
Image Credits
Catherine Cansler Photography
