Feelin’ right at home: How SilverChef helped Scoundrel create a cosy community hub

For Avi Cohen and Lois Parmenter, the visionaries behind Scoundrel, their beloved Christchurch eatery isn't just another café-bar; it’s a unique community hub. Located in a converted warehouse, it features a 1950s Austin truck, lush greenery and comfy couches. Scoundrel's menu showcases soft tortilla tacos bursting with vibrant flavours, complemented by an extensive list of world-class tap wines and a curated selection of beers. Dogs are also welcome, adding to the inclusive and relaxed atmosphere.

Just like any new business venture, getting Scoundrel up and running was a heady mix of uncontainable excitement and a deep understanding of the challenges that lay ahead. This included figuring out a secure way to support the business financially.

“It’s always stressful thinking about what equipment you’ll need, how are you going to pay wages - ultimately, how’s it all going to come together?” Avi explains.

“Partnering with SilverChef removed that stress and allowed us to zone in on the one thing that matters most – designing our dream space and sharing it with the local community.”

Getting things right for the long haul

Running a new hospitality business undoubtedly comes with its fair share of challenges, including time pressures, often endless bureaucracy, and of course, money. "SilverChef saved the day," Avi notes. "SilverChef’s equipment finance solutions allowed us to manage costs effectively, with flexible weekly payments offering us the chance to purchase the equipment we need without hesitation.”

SilverChef's flexible financing meant Avi and Lois could adapt and grow their business without being locked into assets. "It changed the game for us," Avi explains. "We were able to buy better equipment and pay wages because we weren’t buying a $15,000 fridge."

This flexibility future-proofed their business, ensuring they could meet evolving needs and seize growth opportunities.

The freedom to bring people together

With their equipment finances looked after, the team at Scoundrel were able to get to work transforming the former garage on St Asaph Street into a modern, inviting space.

And it hasn’t gone unnoticed by those living in or visiting Christchurch.

For Avi and his team, having customers come in every day and enjoy what Scoundrel offers is incredibly rewarding.

"There's nothing quite like seeing people smile and knowing we're a part of their day," Avi says.

Creating a space where people feel at home is at the heart of what they do.

"The first day felt surreal," Avi recalls. “The journey from idea to opening day was a huge team effort. With SilverChef helping us the whole way, we could let creativity completely guide us.”

Plans for the future

Now that Scoundrel is well on its way, Avi and his team are excited about the future. "We're looking forward to growing our community, introducing new menu items, and creating more memorable experiences for our customers," he says.

“SilverChef provided us with the exact support and flexibility we needed to make our dream a reality. They’ve given us so much freedom to grow sustainably."

The right partner to make your dreams come true

Are you inspired to start or expand your own restaurant or café? With SilverChef, you’re not just dreaming – you’re doing. We’ve helped over 74,000 hospitality businesses worldwide to bring their visions to life with flexible, practical financial solutions. Let’s make your dream a reality.

Don't just dream, do.