Interview with Randy Price: Owner of Rocky Mountain Restaurant

Randy Price has been in the restaurant business "since forever!" He met his wife, Liz, when they were both working at the same establishment -- he as a bartender, she as a cocktail waitress.

Eight years ago, Price took the plunge and started his own restaurant, Salsa Brava Fresh Mexican Grill, in Rockrimmon. Salsa Brava was successful -- so much so that he opened another restaurant, and another and another.

Now his company, the Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group, operates four restaurants, two Salsa Bravas, Sonterra Innovative Southwest Grill and Slayton's Barbecue.

Price attributes his success to focusing on customer service and on delivering an exceptional dining experience.

"We want to create an atmosphere that's casual, warm and inviting -- where people feel comfortable and welcome," he said.

Price took time recently to tell CSBJ about himself and his business.

Organization: Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group Inc.

Position: President and COO

Hometown: Kansas City

How long have you lived in Colorado Springs: Seven years

Education: Bachelor's degree from Northern Arizona University

A few words about your company: Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group began with a vision of providing fresh, affordable food in a high energy, fun and casual atmosphere. We have grown to four stores in five years and remain true to our original values: quality food, value, high energy, casual atmosphere, friendly and accommodating service, cleanliness and outstanding team members.

Recent accomplishments: I have begun working with the Downtown Partnership as a member of the Business Improvement District Board.

Biggest career break: Leaving corporate America, taking a second mortgage and venturing out on my own. There is always risk associated with these types of decisions. If the risk is calculated, you believe in your abilities and are willing to work hard to fulfill your dreams, anything is possible.

The toughest part of your job: Juggling my time between four operations. I have great teams in place at all of my restaurants and that has been key in our success as an organization.

Someone you admire: My wife. She puts the needs of others first, and is a great friend, mother and person.

About your family: I have been married to Liz for 19 years. Our son, Brennan, is 17. Our daughter, Tatum, is 15. We also are foster parents and have a 13-year-old seventh-grader living with us.

Something else you'd like to accomplish: I have big expectations for my organization and am looking forward to continued growth and success. Controlled growth will allow for additional opportunities for those who have worked so hard along side me in building our company.

How your business will change in the next decade: We plan to stay true to our core values and would like to become more environmentally conscious. We have plans to implement changes that will incorporate recycling, energy conservation and educating our 160 employees about making small changes that can make a big difference. It is the right thing to do and I have always believed it is better to lead than to follow.

What book are you currently reading? "The Road" by Cormack McCarthy.

What is the one thing you would change about Colorado Springs? Bring more to the downtown area in terms of retail, culture and family oriented activities. Downtown has so much history and all the ingredients for a thriving and fun business district.

Copyright 2007 Dolan Media Newswires
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