A new direction for Konoba |30 September 2013
Eden Island is slowly becoming one of the most popular business and leisure areas across Mahé -- with a number of restaurants, shops and arcades. One business though has been undergoing a major change in a bid to bring more quality to the area.
Konoba is one of, if not the most beautiful restaurant seen anywhere on Mahé, but throughout the years it has endured a torrid time under successive changes in management and poor standards in general. This however, is about to change.
After going through no fewer than six foreign managers in three years, the restaurant will now be run by a group of highly motivated and qualified 100% Seychellois team. And who knows Seychelles better? This move is one that could prove highly successful, as an establishment being run by the people who themselves know what the public wants and expects from such a place, will surely be able to add the final piece to the puzzle to make the Konoba experience one that justifies its impressive appearance.
Creole Management (Pty) Ltd comprises a team of Seychellois with international experience who are all highly skilled in the tourism and hospitality industry and have all studied in hotel management fields. Their main goal is to lease or manage failing hospitality establishments and turn them around.
Regis Francourt and Melton Ernesta, being the Finance and Operations directors of the group and executive chef Herdson Philo are the management team who greeted me upon my arrival at the Konoba restaurant, where I set out to find out just what can be expected in this new era for the restaurant. Nathalie Mussard is a new recruit to the team as the Unit manager and Terrence Cedras is the newly appointed Food and Beverage manager. Together they make a formidable team!
During the interview, it was pointed out that they want to bring a more professional approach to the restaurant, through the upgrading of the quality of food and services.
Mr Francourt remarked: “Perception is different from reality. A lot of people, who have in the past complained about the restaurant, may have never been here and I would invite them to come and experience it for themselves.”
“You shouldn’t be put off by what you have heard about Konoba being expensive, because it’s not,” he added.
Customers are being promised value for money as the new management intends on making Konoba the best restaurant anywhere in Seychelles.
Customers will now be offered a new variety of services such as Sunday brunch with a live jazz band, light and fast business lunches, gala dinners and private functions.
The new management also wishes to turn Konoba into the social gathering hub after work, a bit like an up-market British pub where customers can socialise and network while enjoying their favourite drink and munching on an assortment of freshly made snacks.
In accordance with the new services promised, the management will focus on staff training to significantly improve customer service.
Alongside the stunning interior design, filled with vibrant colours and intelligent placement of furniture, the new Creole Management is aiming for a customer experience second to none.
To those who might find it difficult to balance their time to go to Konoba but want to taste the restaurant’s delicacy, do not worry as the new management has excellent fast food services next to Konoba, called Nooners. Nooners is a delicatessen which offers daily quality lunches at low prices to either eat in or take away. Afternoon teas, coffees and freshly made pastries are also available. As from today, Nooners will be offering a ‘grab n go’ English or Continental breakfast from 7am every day.
If you are thinking where to go for lunch or dinner why not drop by Konoba for a lavish experience. For details and reservations contact 4345400.
S.N.