Meraki: Whit Richardson
Meraki Series: Meraki is a word that is often used to describe what it means to do something with passion, with absolute devotion, and with undivided attention. It’s the feeling when you love doing something, anything, so much that you put something of yourself into it. So, we’ve dedicated this series to those who live out that meaning, and we ask them how.
Meet Whit Richardson from our Athens, GA location! We’re excited to share his journey into the hospitality industry, why he fell in love with the Taziki’s brand and then opened a franchise location in 2014.
How long have you been in the hospitality industry?
I have been in the industry since 2010. My first hospitality job was at Dante’s Down the Hatch in Atlanta, GA. Dante’s was an iconic fondue club with a jazz trio that played 6 nights a week on a pirate ship.
When did you franchise your first Taziki’s location?
We opened our Taziki’s Franchise in 2014. Dante’s closed in 2013 and after leaving the industry to pursue other careers in real estate and insurance, my heart still missed the hospitality industry.
What is unique about your store?
We are located in the heart of Downtown Athens, GA. Our store has a small footprint with just over 2000 sq ft. My Aunt, who is a designer, and my Mom decided we should hang awnings over the windows in the dining room to make the space feel open. It adds a nice, unique touch with European flair to our dining room.
What inspired you about Taziki’s brand that made you decide to franchise a location?
I was very familiar with the Taziki’s brand since I graduated from Samford University in Birmingham, AL, and loved the food. We believe in the Taziki’s brand not just because the food is delicious, but because it is a brand with a commitment to serving local communities specifically with The HOPE Project.
What is your favorite item on the Taziki’s menu?
I can’t just pick one! Some of my favorites are the Lamb and Skordalia Gyro with Swiss Cheese, the Turkey Club on Wheat Bread, or the Greek Lemon Chicken Soup!
If you had one piece of advice to offer someone who is interested in franchising, what would you tell them?
It’s a process so you have to believe in what you’re investing in. Make sure to have a lot of capital upfront and that you are willing to put the time and effort into the business.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that people may not know!
I was adopted 3 years ago by an orange Tabby cat named Marley and she does the best she can to keep me in line!
Thank you, Whit, for the great impact you and your team have in Athens, GA. If you are in the area, stop by their location here.