Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick Galsim.
Hi Patrick, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started in the food and beverage industry as a banquet service supervisor at the old Hyatt hotel in Manila and my wife in hotel sales and marketing. We were both in the service industry for a long time. When we moved to the US, I worked as a chef at Hapag Filipino Cuisine in Yonkers, New York and During the pandemic, me and my wife also started a home-based food delivery business in NYC. I moved to Georgia for a job and I was looking for a place to stay and that’s how I met the previous owner of Kuya’s. I tried calling Filipino restaurant from my google search and the first person to answer was Kuya Pocholo and he told me that Ate Vicky, the owner of Kuya’s, is renting a room. I stayed with them and also worked in the restaurant in the weekend. When I heard that she is selling the restaurant, I expressed my interest and the rest is history. =).
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Just like most of the Filipinos in America, we moved to the US in 2015 with hopes of a better life. The only problem is we only had a Tourist Visa. I had to move fast to search for a job sponsorship but I failed to look for a sponsor so I had to change to student status just to maintain a legal status in the US. I almost gave up on US and applied for a job in Canada. We were ready to move until a last-minute miracle happened. I found a company that can sponsor my green card. Because of the sponsorship, I needed to relocate to Georgia and that’s how I found the previous owner of Kuya’s.
It wasn’t an easy road especially if the hurdle is your immigration status. Before, I felt like I had so much to give but didn’t have the opportunity but with God’s own time, perseverance, hard work and faith you will eventually be where you are supposed to be.
After what my family have been through, I welcome all the challenges with a grateful heart.
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?
Kuya’s has been established for over 12 years. We are located inside the City Farmers in Duluth. A very convenient place when you want to shop for your favorite Asian/Filipino groceries.
When we took over Kuya’s, we are very clear on what we wanted to provide to our patrons. Everything that we do all revolves in these 3 core values: Value for Money, Cleanliness, and Fast Service. We are Kuya’s and we provide authentic Filipino dishes we all miss from home.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
For small business owners like us, I highly recommend profit first by Mike Michalowicz. It teaches you how to set up and manage your finances the efficient way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuyas_food_express/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084187624405&mibextid=LQQJ4d
