Dazzo’s Kitchen
Customer
While the pandemic was bringing the restaurant industry to a halt, one passionate chef found the shutdown to be a chance to dream big. Eric Randazzo had enjoyed cooking from a young age, as home-cooked meals were a big part of his childhood. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a major in culinary arts, he spent several years working as a chef. He took his career to the next level in November 2022 by opening Dazzo’s Kitchen. The heartbeat of this boutique restaurant is the 100% wood-fired oven which allows Randazzo to infuse unique smoky flavors into everything from shellfish and steaks to artisanal pizzas and crème brûlée.
Challenge
Although the pandemic provided Randazzo with free time to plan his business venture, he knew it was still going to be a lot of work. “Imagine trying to find a lender that believed in a business plan around opening a restaurant, while many others were closing their doors,” says Randazzo. To help him prepare for conversations with lenders, he joined a mentorship program through the U.S. Small Business Administration called SCORE. An assigned mentor helped him prepare his business plan and financial projections. Other hurdles to overcome included finding a building, doing renovations, creating a unique menu and hiring staff. Adds Randazzo, “Every step of the way, I thought THIS has to be the hardest part of the process.”
“KeyBank was eager to help. Everyone there is a diligent communicator and passionate about my success.” – Eric Randazzo, Owner, Dazzo’s Kitchen
Solution
Things became easier for Randazzo when he turned to KeyBank for an SBA 7(a) loan which allowed him to start construction and provide funds for equipment purchases. His KeyBank business banking relationship manager recommended this specialized small business financing, which offers lengthier payment terms and lower down payment advantages. “KeyBank was eager to help. Everyone there is a diligent communicator and passionate about my success,” smiles Randazzo. His KeyBank SBA specialist created a workable financing package while a KeyBank SBA senior service officer helped to get his loan across the finish line.
Results
The building, originally an Italian bakery and local landmark for 100 years, has proven to be the ideal choice for Randazzo to realize his vision. Diverse patrons enjoy the intimate, open-kitchen experience along with an ever-changing menu of entrees, homemade pastas, select wines and desserts. Two apartments upstairs provide a convenient residence for Randazzo along with a rental property, which makes his finances and commute to work a lot easier. Says Randazzo, “After a hard day’s work, I just walk upstairs with my partner to our home and dog.” You could say Randazzo’s love for cooking has turned into hosting a dinner party, every night.
To learn more, contact a local KeyBank Relationship Manager or visit key.com/sbalocations.
To learn more about Dazzo’s Kitchen, visit dazzoskitchen.com.