Based in Woolooware, NSW, the team at Levain Pizzeria has made an immediate impact on the locals' taste buds. We visited owner Ben Gilbert and his team soon after their opening in early 2024 to chat about how SilverChef supported making their dreams a reality.
The hospitality dream
This dream began for Ben back in his twenties while working long hours as a cocktail bartender. What started as a means to fund his world travels swiftly turned into a deep-seated passion for hospitality. Ben's journey took him around the globe, where he immersed himself in various cultures and cuisines, learning the nuances of different culinary traditions.
Upon his return to Australia, Ben set about planning to open a dynamic and exciting pizzeria. He envisioned a place where people could gather to enjoy not just great food but also an unforgettable dining experience. The planning process, however, swiftly shone a light on the complexities of financing and logistics.
"I wasn't sure if I was doing the right thing. The journey was hard! That's when SilverChef were a massive help with my cash flow."
SilverChef hospitality equipment funding
Fitting out a hospitality venue is an expensive endeavor, and the financial balancing act can often causes delays when opening a new venue.
Beyond the iconic pizza oven, Levain Pizzeria required a substantial list of kitchen equipment, from high-quality ovens to refrigerators and everything in between. Having access to SilverChef's Rent-Try-Buy meant that Ben was able to avoid the up-front equipment costs and minimize the overall cash-flow pressure. This financial flexibility was crucial in the early stages of the business.
"The process was really quick with SilverChef. A couple of meetings and then the approval was done!"
This streamlined process allowed him to focus more on other essential aspects of his business, working towards a smooth launch.
What's ahead
After investing months of excitement and energy into his dream, Ben described Opening Day as chaotic, with a flood of mixed emotions.
Turning any dream into reality requires not only hard work and focus but also partnerships with the right support and people along the way. Ben's drive to create amazing experiences for his customers has already made an impressive impact. His dedication to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of Levain Pizzeria.
SilverChef is proud to have been a part of making this dream a reality.
As Levain Pizzeria continues to grow, Ben looks forward to creating more memorable experiences for his customers. The future holds many exciting possibilities, and with a strong foundation in place, there's no doubt that Levain Pizzeria will continue to thrive.
Watch now to see the full story of Ben's journey launching the delicious Levain Pizzeria.