Today we’d like to introduce you to Mechelle Tran.
Mechelle, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
After finishing graduate school, I took a break to stay home with my newborn baby. During that time, I noticed an opportunity for growth at my parent’s fast-casual Vietnamese noodle soup restaurant in midtown Houston. I helped brand and develop their business into a model that was franchise friendly, and from there we grew from one location to two, to three within the family. Before you knew it, we had a franchisee in Austin, and I just opened my Pearland location fourth quarter of 2018. Our family came here as refugees from Vietnam, we work hard and we make a lot of sacrifices, so getting to a place of accomplishment felt like we truly achieved the American Dream, for which we are grateful and humbled by the opportunity.
Riel Restaurant is a modern American restaurant that I opened with my chef-partner Ryan Lachaine in the Montrose area. January 2020, we will be 3 years old. Ryan is in charge of the food and I work behind the scene on the operation side. We have a lot of fun at Riel and Ryan’s food is very special, as it reflects a melting pot culture which is what we are together.
My goal is to continue opening more restaurants locally and within the great state of Texas given the opportunity.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The restaurant industry is challenging and the journey is arduous, you have to know what you want and stand by it. In once was a male-dominated industry, I am thrilled to see more women owning their own restaurants and leading kitchens and teams. The hours are long, and sacrifices are made daily, it’s like climbing a mountain but not really ever seeing the top, you just keep pushing. My advice to other women would be to utilize your resources, make connections, ask for help and take advice wherever you can, always be open-minded and learn from those before you. It’s also okay to be tired and exhausted, mentally and physically, but you have to make time for yourself to take care of your body and your spirit so you can continue fighting another day.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Riel Restaurant, and Pho Saigon Noodle House – what should we know?
At both Pho Saigon and Riel Restaurant, what I feel is so special is our feeling of family and togetherness. Our staff operates like a family, with respect and support for each other, while also having fun. It’s challenging to survive in the restaurant industry with so many new places opening and the competition is fierce. As owners, we put in long hours to support our team and we do whatever is necessary to push for success because if I’m successful, I can take better care of my team. Often times you’ll catch me behind the cash register at the noodle shops or at the pass at Riel. I believe we have a lot of heart at Pho Saigon and Riel, and I hope it is reflected in what we do every day.
Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
My journey has been elevated by reading and listening to Eckhart Tolle, he teaches us how to find the peace within when you’re operating with chaos around you constantly. Learning how to separate your ego from who you are, has really helped me solve problems with a sense of peace and not as though the problem is personally out to make my life more difficult. I listen to motivational talks as well, they help push me forward and also help me appreciate the opportunities I have been given.
I’m also learning how to fly an airplane!
Contact Info:
- Address: Riel Restaurant
1927 Fairview St.
Houston, TX 77019Pho Saigon (Flagship store)
2808 Milam St., #D
Houston, TX 77006 - Website: www.rielhtx.com
- Email: mechelle@rielhouston.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/rielhouston?igshid=uk36r8iu8fhm
Image Credit:
Riel Restaurant
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