It's good to have you back again in Lebanon Mr. Vice President, of Global Marketing for P.F. Chang's China Bistro
As we discussed last year about the inauguration of PF Chang's chain in Lebanon...and as we see, this year once again, the bistro is opening its doors at Zaitunay Bay...
1. In your opinion, what is the best way to keep the chain of the restaurants (opening) ongoing?
P.F. Chang's is a collection of restaurants because, even though we have more than 270 locations around the world, no two P.F. Chang's are the same. Each restaurant has a unique look, while keeping some of our core brand attributes consistent, like the mural or the horses. This is what keeps us fresh and allows us to continue growing.
Most importantly, the consistency of our operations, the great flavors of our food that is always prepared to order, using only the freshest ingredients is what makes our guests coming back.
2. After this huge success, should we wait for the 4th branch?
P.F. Chang's is very successful in the Middle East region and look forward to opening more restaurants in Lebanon and other countries. Stay tuned to our social media outlets for the most up-to-date information regarding our current and future plans. We're very active on Instagram (/pfchangslebanon) and Facebook (/pfchangslb).
3. How and why did you guys come up with the idea of opening this restaurant especially in Zaitunay Bay?
The people in Lebanon love good food. This is a market where people eat out often and we are hoping to become a new favorite in the city. As for Zaitunay Bay specifically, just take a look at the area. Anyone would be lucky to call this place their home. With the scenic views and the many local attractions, it was a perfect fit for a P.F. Chang's restaurant.
4. What are some of the skills and abilities necessary for someone to succeed in being a Global Vice President?
I've been in Global Marketing for over 15 years and I've learned a lot from personal experience and various mentors. To succeed in the global business you have to be extremely flexible as no two markets are the same.
Your ability to adapt comes hand in hand with your ability to quickly learn about different markets and I've found there is no better way than to do that through the eyes of the locals, making communication a vital skill.
For example, the people of Lebanon have such a rich history and are so passionate in all that they do, and that's something you can only experience through embracing the culture and the people first hand. This is why P.F. Chang's passion for food couples so well with Lebanon.
5. As we discussed previously, You LOVE to eat Lebanese food, now what are the best restaurants you've been around in Lebanon?
Yes, I LOVE Labanese food! The thought and preparation that goes into cooking Lebanese food reminds me a lot of how Asian food is prepared. Lebanese cuisine is fresh, very healthy and delicious! It's the simple spices and ingredients blended perfectly to create unique flavors.
There are so many nice restaurants in Beirut! But most recently, I went to a restaurant near P.F. Chang's at Zaitunay Bay called Babel. It shares the same scenic views of the bay and the boardwalk that P.F. Chang's does and the food was wonderful!
6. What's your favorite food that P.F. Chang's bistro serves?
P.F. Chang's serves food from China and Southeast Asia. Many of our food items use only a few ingredients, so the flavors are strong and blend very well together. It's no surprise that some of the best sellers are also my favorites. The number one selling dish, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, are excellent as are the Middle Eastern favorite, Dynamite Shrimp. You'll often see one Dynamite Shrimp per person at a table in this region, and I've been known to indulge in them myself. Sushi is also delicious in Beirut! We launched sushi a few years ago and I've had the pleasure of trying all the rolls. They're really good and fresh! Another personal favorite is Oolong Sea Bass. It's Chilean Seabass marinated in Oolong Tea for several hours and then served over a bed of sautéed spinach; it's delicious and has the added benefit of being healthy!
7. What's the best way to keep your customers coming back?
Great question and I'm glad you asked! Besides great food, at P.F.Chang's, we pride ourselves on excellent service. We will do everything we can to make you want to come back. In fact, that very line is in our company "Message". It's something each team member lives by and is committed to carrying out. We want to make sure that when you are dining at our restaurant, you are taking your time, savoring our food while sharing moments with your family and friends.
8. Can you mention us some tips for running a successful restaurant?
Like any restaurant that is capable of growing to over 270 locations around the world, it starts with great food! P.F. Chang's opened its doors in 1993 and since then we've been making dishes with the freshest ingredients without compromise. You also want to keep things new and fresh, which is why we call P.F. Chang's a collection of restaurants. As I had mentioned before, even though we have over 270 locations worldwide, no two P.F. Chang's are the same. For me the success of the P.F. Chang's brand lies in the combination of delicious food that is always consistent, with personalized service (American style) and a beautiful and comfortable ambience. The perfect trifecta!
9. What's the worst meal you've prepared or had?
Part of being an adventurous eater by nature, I've had my share of bad meals, but I can't think of one in particular. I really enjoy trying the food that the locals eat. I am quite adventurous and eat pretty much everything. The most important thing for me is that the food has to be freshly prepared. It doesn't matter how simple the meal is as I agree with the phrase "Less is More"
10. What are your next plans? Any openings soon globally?
P.F.Chang's will open around 18 restaurants this year. Our goal is to keep opening restaurants in the Middle East region and consolidate our leadership position here and in South America where we are also very successful. P.F. Chang's is America's number one Asian Bistro and we hope to extend our footprint to Europe and other countries in Asia very soon.
T.Kozian
Thank you for making part of your celebration
Beiruting.com
