Charasmatic and driven, Jerome Chammassian is solidifying La Petite Maison Riyadh’s reputation as an optimal dining destination. Here, he tells us more about his role as general manager and the ingredients to success.
What have been your major career milestones?
A standout highlight of my career has undeniably been my transition from managing hotel operations to leading independent restaurants, particularly over the past seven years. Previously, I successfully managed Cappuccino Grand Café, a well-known Spanish franchise, where I refined my skills in operational excellence. Subsequently, I opened several Novikov locations in Saudi Arabia, which significantly deepened my appreciation for diverse culinary cultures. Most recently, I joined La Petite Maison Riyadh, which is celebrated for its unique French-Mediterranean cuisine, perfectly aligning with my passion for exceptional dining experiences. Ultimately, each of these roles has enriched my expertise and strengthened my commitment to delivering outstanding service and quality.
What do you believe is the key to running a successful restaurant in KSA?
Running a successful restaurant in Saudi Arabia relies on several critical factors, with communication at the forefront. Establishing clear channels for dialog fosters a strong team dynamic and ensures everyone is aligned with the restaurant’s vision. Additionally, understanding local culture and culinary preferences is essential for tailoring offerings that resonate with guests. Cultivating a family spirit among staff promotes loyalty and enhances performance, which I prioritize as a mentor through training and development.
Equally important is enhancing the guest experience, pivotal for long-term success. Guests should feel not only satisfied with their meals but also delighted by the ambiance, service and personalized touches. Every detail, from the moment they enter to how their food is presented, should create a memorable, immersive experience. By continuously seeking feedback and making improvements, we ensure our offerings not only meet but exceed expectations, turning first-time visitors into loyal patrons. This commitment to excellence fosters lasting relationships, ensuring guests feel valued and eager to return.
What can you tell us about La Petite Maison Riyadh that not many people know?
At La Petite Maison Riyadh, we place a unique emphasis on employee satisfaction, closely monitoring it alongside our guests’ experiences. This dual focus is quite rare in today’s hospitality landscape, where many establishments prioritize customer feedback over staff well-being. By regularly assessing both dimensions, we effectively create an environment where employees feel valued and motivated. Consequently, this not only enhances team morale but also translates into better service for our guests. Ultimately, our commitment to this balance reflects our strong belief that happy staff lead to satisfied customers, significantly contributing to our restaurant’s overall success.
What are your plans for La Petite Maison Riyadh?
My main objective for La Petite Maison Riyadh is to uphold the high standards we’ve established while continuously innovating. With the exceptional team I am privileged to work with, the potential for growth is tremendous. We are constantly exploring new culinary experiences that will appeal to our clientele. While I can’t reveal all the details just yet, I assure you we have some exciting initiatives in the works that will enhance our offerings. With their dedication and enthusiasm, I genuinely believe that the sky’s the limit for us.
