Interview with Dean Nenni, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I started in the restaurant business as a dishwasher when I turned 16. I’ve been it in ever since. I bought my first restaurant when I was 27. I built Parkway from scratch and it opened in January 2007.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We genuinely care about every customer, every plate of food, the condition of the restaurant and the level of service we provide. We understand there are a lot of choices for restaurants. We have to stand out by doing things better than the rest. Our menu is huge. If you want a great burger and the person you’re with wants a thick, juicy ribeye steak and your kid wants mac ‘n’ cheese or pizza, you’re all happy. It’s perfectly cooked and served quickly. This business isn’t rocket science. Just treat your customer like you would want to be treated and treat every customer like your future depends on it, because it does.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I have owned my own restaurants for more 30 years. I never get tired of going to work. It’s a real challenge to stay in business for the long haul. Most people have no idea how difficult it is to run a small business. Some one once said to me, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” I sweat everything. It’s the small stuff that makes the difference.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Getting great employees. We are very tough on our employees. We demand they maintain our high standards for every customer, every day. We have a great kitchen staff that works hard every hour of the day, great servers that complete our vision of how customers should be treated and managers that help put it all together. We could not be successful without our great employees.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: We are a family-run business. My wife is my partner, and I have three beautiful girls who have all worked here at one time or another. My biggest thrill with my life is that I was able to work and spend time with all my family.
Profile
Business: Parkway Bar & Grill
Address: 22775 E. Aurora Parkway
Hours: 11 a.m. 12 a.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.- 2 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-2 a.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2007
Contact: 303-693-6200,
Employees: 50
