Interview with Marvin Chang, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: My father, four brothers and I moved to the U.S. from South Korea in 1976. My dad established a restaurant in Phoenix — Chang’s Restaurant. My brothers and I helped him at the restaurant during our school years. Three of my older brothers entered the restaurant business after leaving school. I guess the restaurant business is in my genes!
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: I came to Denver and opened a restaurant in Southwest Plaza — Mr. Sushi — in 2002. When this location in Golden became available in 2008, I decided to open another sushi restaurant. Since this location had been a fast-food restaurant, I worked on creating an atmosphere that was different — a new look and new decor. At Halu Sushi, my employees and I emphasize consistent quality in food and service. I want to provide a great experience for my customers so that they will want to return. As a small-business owner I have to know how to do it all — from cooking to cutting the fish. I also am involved in the Golden community as a member of the Chamber of Commerce and I support local groups such as Golden High School.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: What I like best about the restaurant business is the chance to get to know my customers. I enjoy being with my customers to make sure they are satisfied with the food and often to hear a story or even to tell a joke or two.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: The biggest challenge in the restaurant business is that it is highly competitive. There are lots of choices for people these days, and if you don’t offer a quality product and a positive experience, people won’t want to return. The Internet has changed things too — it’s easy for people now to quickly leave comments. I am fortunate to have a staff who share my philosophy. You have to have fun to stay in the restaurant business.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: One thing that people might not know about my business is that Halu is not a Japanese word. I made it up, a kind of a play on words: Halu Sushi — hello, sushi! Come and try our restaurant — say hello to sushi!
Profile
Business: Halu Sushi
Address: 17525 S. Golden Rd., Golden, CO 80401
Hours: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 4-9:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday
Founded: 2008
Contact: 303-279-5231;
Employees: 7
