We had the good fortune of connecting with Walther Adrianzen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Walther, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My goal has always been to make a Peruvian Fast Casual Franchise so I systemized my recipes for easy and fast reproduction. I want my restaurant to be a cook’s paradise. A place where the cooks are the stars of the show and can interact with the patrons. Talking with my friends while I cook. The employees to be seen as more than just a paycheck. I’ve worked at many places where the owners just care for their money, then the customer, then the location, and last the employees; the people who generate the money. I want to treat my coworkers with respect, pay them on time and fairly, offer them benefits for themselves and their families. The ultimate goal is to give each one of them the dream of owning their location. I’m proud to say I have invested in a team of lawyers, human resources, accountants, marketing, and more for the benefit of the workers. If they work happily, they cook with love, and that is my secret ingredient.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started CevicheStop as a Ceviche Food Stand in August 2015. Two years later, it became a food truck. In the process, I had the opportunity to work at many restaurants helping them with their opening as their Executive Chef consultant. I had to learn all the ins and outs of managing a restaurant and perfect my recipes. Peruvian Fast Food is new in the market and to be able to provide the top Peruvian Dishes in a Fast- Casual environment is a challenge I would like to triumph. My goal is to offer a rendition of traditional Peruvian cuisine with an innovative gastronomic spin: The mission is to celebrate life, family, and food. It’s where gourmet meets fast food. And the hope is to have several. The process of starting a business hasn’t been easy, but it’s definitely rewarding. It is a dream come true.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Starting locally, as soon as you land at LAX, you need to stop at CevicheStop. Then take the opportunity to visit Beverly Hills and drive down Rodeo Drive. Hit Hollywood Blvd and check out the Chinese Theater and look at the Hollywood Stars. End the night with a concert at the Hollywood Bowl. Another day, you must drive down PCH, try to surf a wave, and visit my friends at Nobu in Malibu. The views are breathtaking. Just make sure you make reservations ahead of time. Santa Monica and Venice are also staples in LA. Don’t forget to stop by Chulita in Venice and enjoy their delicious menu and amazing drinks. And talking about staples, try to catch a Lakers game in DTLA. Followed by drinks at the numerous rooftops there are. You can’t come to LA and not visit the Hollywood sign or Disneyland! To end your trip, make sure to visit CevicheStop on your way back to the airport. Ok fine… AND In-N-Out.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my father’s mentorship. My father has been and continues to be my greatest inspiration. He believed in me and was my biggest supporter. I wish he was here to see everything we have accomplished. Additionally, my wife and kids, who have not only road along with every new journey I’ve taken, but have helped me in every possible way to ensure I continue my passion. I am so appreciative of them. My entire family and friends who come out to support me every chance they get. CevicheStop wouldn’t be possible without them, my team, my employees, and the amazing loyal customers I have. When I say I am lucky, believe me, I am extremely lucky for each and every one of them! They are all part of my success.
Website: https://www.cevichestopla.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cevichestop/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cevichestop
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cevichestop-culver-city-2?osq=cevichestop