La Cabra’s Secret Sauce: How Three Entrepreneurs Redefined Dining
La Cabra, the brainchild of Sherinder Kohli, Joshua Smith, and Derrick Chandra, has become a shining star in modern dining. In just five short years, this innovative Mexican restaurant chain has achieved a valuation of $12 million. Recently, the trio sat down with Inspirepreneur to share the highs and lows of their entrepreneurial journey, offering a glimpse into the strategies and philosophies that have propelled their success.
Tune in to the podcast to uncover the inspiring journey of La Cabra’s founders and discover the secrets behind their remarkable success.
About La Cabra
Founded in 2019, La Cabra has carved out a niche in the culinary scene with its modern take on Mexican cuisine, blending bold flavours with contemporary techniques. Known for its vibrant interiors that capture the essence of Mexico, La Cabra promises a dining experience like no other. The restaurant has expanded its reach with two new locations in Ballarat and South Yarra. These new venues will feature beloved favourites from their existing locations in Hawthorn, Hampton, St Kilda, Carlton and Mornington Peninsula including dishes like Stuffed Jalapenos and Cauliflower Hot Wings. The menu caters to diverse palates, from classic tacos and enchiladas to inventive culinary twists.
Derrick Chandra, Co-Founder and Head Chef emphasises his commitment to quality, saying, “We work closely with our local suppliers to create dishes that pay homage to Mexican cuisine.” This dedication is evident not only in their food but also in their impressive drink offerings, featuring Margaritas, Mountain Goat beer on tap, and a wide range of tequilas. With weekly specials, bottomless brunches, and an inviting atmosphere, La Cabra continues to establish itself as a beloved destination for Mexican food enthusiasts across Melbourne.
La Cabra Founders’ Background
The driving force behind La Cabra is the dynamic trio of Derrick Chandra (Derrick), Joshua Smith (Josh), and Sherinder Kohli (Sherry), whose diverse backgrounds have been instrumental in the restaurant’s success. Each founder boasts over a decade in hospitality, bringing a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table. Derrick brings over 13 years of experience in kitchen management, honing his skills in streamlining operations and mentoring staff. Josh’s journey saw him rise from a cafe worker to a manager, where he gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of business dynamics. Sherry’s path is marked by a progression from chef roles to owning a shisha cafe and a security firm, eventually leading to co-owning a cafe where the team first collaborated. Their shared vision and complementary expertise have been pivotal in the creation and growth of La Cabra.
Challenges and Growth
Launching La Cabra was no small feat, riddled with obstacles at every turn. The quest for a suitable location concluded when they discovered a promising site in Hawthorn, catalysing their pivot from a cafe to a Mexican eatery. Leasing agreements and securing reliable suppliers proved challenging, necessitating perseverance and negotiation. Anecdotes from the founders describe late nights and the collective resolve required to excel in a saturated market. Their commitment to overcoming these initial hurdles laid the groundwork for future success.
La Cabra’s growth is a narrative of strategic vision and swift execution. From their inaugural store in Hawthorn, they are expanding to nine locations, including Hampton, St. Kilda, and Carlton, within a mere five years. This rapid expansion was fueled by keen market analysis and customer feedback, ensuring each store was strategically positioned in high-demand areas. The decision to adopt a franchising model was pivotal, allowing them to leverage local expertise while maintaining brand integrity. By the end of their fifth year, La Cabra had established a network of stores valued collectively at $12 million, with plans to open more locations shortly.
La Cabra Unique Selling Proposition
La Cabra distinguishes itself in the bustling restaurant scene with its unique take on Mexican cuisine. Straddling the line between casual and upscale dining, the founders crafted an experience that merges South American culinary influences with a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Rejecting fast-food norms, La Cabra offers a menu rich with modern Mexican flavours, complemented by innovative cocktails. This distinct identity has resonated with patrons, establishing La Cabra as a favourite destination for those seeking a refreshing and contemporary dining experience.
Impact of COVID-19
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges, impacting operations across the hospitality sector. La Cabra, however, demonstrated remarkable resilience. The founders adopted by optimising staffing models and enhancing their takeaway and delivery offerings. Despite the pandemic’s disruptions, they successfully launched new locations, underscoring their commitment to growth and adaptability. These strategic pivots not only sustained the business but also reinforced its position in the market.
Business Philosophy and Franchising
The cornerstone of La Cabra’s success lies in a business philosophy centred on passion, teamwork, and community engagement. The founders perceive franchisees as partners, providing them with extensive training and support to ensure consistency and excellence across all outlets. They emphasise alignment with franchisees who exhibit a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for the restaurant industry. Additionally, La Cabra remains an active community member, participating in local sponsorships and initiatives, further cementing its reputation as a socially responsible brand.
Future Plans and Vision
As La Cabra looks to the future, expansion remains a key focus. With new locations in Carnegie, Mordialloc and other venues underway, the founders are also exploring opportunities for interstate growth. Their approach to expansion is measured and strategic, prioritising sustained growth over rapid proliferation. By maintaining a focus on quality and innovation, they aim to preserve the brand’s unique identity while adapting to evolving market trends.
The La Cabra story is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and collaboration. The founders’ journey, marked by strategic foresight and a relentless pursuit of excellence, provides invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. Their ability to navigate challenges, adapt to market changes, and maintain a steadfast commitment to their vision continues to inspire and set a benchmark for success in the culinary industry. As La Cabra continues to grow and innovate, it exemplifies the profound impact of passion and teamwork in crafting a thriving business.
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