Our Homegrown Business feature this week is on Hawthorn Dining Room and Bar! We got to speak to Executive Food and Bar Manager, Chef Eraj Jayawickreme to learn more about what sets them apart from other Calgary restaurants!
What is your business called and what does it do?
Hawthorn Dining Room and Bar. The premier Alberta focused restaurant in Canada
What made you want to do this work?
I have been in the business for over 28 years. In opening Hawthorn we had an opportunity to showcase all things Alberta to all our discerning guests who visit us from all over the world.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our clientele is all the great people of Calgary and our valued guests that stay at the Fairmont Palliser.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We are a restaurant that prides itself in being open 18 hours a day 365 days of the year. Our focus in in highlighting Albertan artisans, producers, farmers and businesses in all aspects of our restaurant.
Where in Calgary can we find your profession?
In every great restaurant we have in this city.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services?
What drives you to give the best experience to your guests each and every day.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part of my job is to be able to work with my great team day in and day out to give our guest the best dining experience in Calgary. The worst part of my job is is not having enough time in the day to get everything done.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Why did the chef have to stop cooking? He ran out of Thyme. (lol dad joke)
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another Calgary business that you love?
I have 2 favourites: Last Best Brewery and Parker Pr!!!
