Today we’d like to introduce you to K.C. Knipple.
Hi K.C., so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was a tattoo artist for 15yrs. Never really satisfied I lied my way into a scratch kitchen just for a steady income. Within 2yrs I was managing the morning shift and 5yrs into my culinary career I was named Chef de cuisine of the company’s newly acquired 2nd location. After realizing I reach the top of the ladder, I ventured away from the company that took the risk of hiring a tattoo artist with zero culinary experience only 6yrs prior. I was hired as Executive Chef of a restaurant on the campus of the University of Michigan, short lived the restaurant closed 18 months later. Thats when I found the “dream” job, Executive Chef of a boutique catering company. I had the creative freedom to do whatever I wanted, not bound to a concept or predetermined cuisine I could just cook! and that I did…..then an unusual opportunity arises Im approached by a former colleague turned entrepreneur about ownership of a restaurant in the City I was born and raised. Convinced it was a sign I took advantage of the offer and 9yrs later I own the restaurant and real estate. MaLou’s fried chicken!!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all!!! Staffing has been the only issue and the most stressful issue Ive had to deal with
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
MaLou’s is a Nashville style fried chicken fast casual scratch kitchen restaurant. We are known for HUGE fried chicken sandwiches and “the best fried chicken in the State of Michigan, possibly the country” (vlogger from food lovers magazine) I think what sets us apart from others is we refuse to take ourselves too seriously and this allows us to be more creative and less deflated if something fails. Every staff member is encouraged to create a menu item and getting one to stay on the menu is the challenge. I would say the thing Im proud of most is having the ability to employ people and watch them grow into hopefully successful business owners one day.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Inspiring people, complete strangers at one point to buy into the dream is the best way to manage. Honesty is the best policy when growing a business
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ma-lous.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malousfriedchicken?stkn=MXZ0NDF3ZnZqOGRrbQ==
