Today we’d like to introduce you to Hetal Jannu.
Hetal, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve been a “foodie” for as long as I can remember. I was always mesmerized about how different cuisine was prepared and how different ingredients came together. Growing up in a vegetarian household, I was always attempting to recreate traditionally meat-based dishes into veggie-friendly ones. My passion for food transcended my traditional career as a financial analyst.
After my two children were school age, a friend and I started a website called “Show Me The Curry” to teach Indian and South Asian cuisine. It immediately gained worldwide popularity and allowed me to further my culinary experience. Since it had always been a dream of mine to own a restaurant, when the opportunity presented itself, I was thrilled to be the new owner of Rocco’s.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Owning a restaurant has its fair share of struggles, but acquiring an existing one sometimes adds to the difficulty. It is a 24/7 job to run a restaurant efficiently and understanding that it is impossible to be present 24/7 is key. I quickly realized that when I was not present, things were falling through the cracks.
I had to create processes that others could follow and also work with the inherited staff to change the ways they were accustomed to and accept the new procedures. Once everyone understood the need for the change and realized the efficiencies, the road was much smoother.
Rocco’s Uptown Pizza & Pasta – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Rocco’s Uptown is the beacon of light for the late night hungry party-goers in Uptown Dallas. We are open until 3;30 am on weekends and provide a casual and comfortable place for people to enjoy great pizza and continue the party just a little longer. We also deliver within a 3-mile radius and to all the nearby hotels. Many offices cater their business meetings or office parties from our catering menu.
Our New York style pizza is made with hand-tossed dough, quality fresh vegetables, meats and cheese and baked in a stone hearth oven. When customers come to Rocco’s, they are met with friendly faces and great food. Our long-time employees are like our extended family and customers feel that hospitality shine through.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
To me, success is not always based on financials. Success is how gratified I feel at the end of the day. As a restaurant owner, I have a responsibility to my employees to provide a safe and enjoyable place to work and earn a living. I also have a responsibility to my customers to provide delicious food and great service.
Sometimes, a heartfelt customer review makes all the difference. Through trials and tribulations, if I can still feel a sense of accomplishment, then I have succeeded.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2717 Howell St, Ste A Dallas, TX 75204
- Website: http://RoccosUptown.com
- Phone: 214-871-9207
- Email: roccosuptowndallas@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roccosuptown/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roccosuptown
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/roccosuptownpp
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/roccos-uptown-pizza-and-pasta-dallas
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
