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Mid-Week Mugging: Quesada Burritos and Tacos

Barrie woman goes from office job to entrepreneur
mid week mugging quesada
Kunal Patel is the co-owner of Quesada on Bayfield Street. Sue Sgambati/BarrieToday

Kunal Patel is doing something many people only dream about.

The Barrie woman recently quit her Monday to Friday, 9 to 5 office job of seven years for a brand new start as a business owner.

"I decided that I wanted to do something for myself and wanted a change in life. I wanted to see how I could do just myself, being an owner, being an entrepreneur," Patel said. 

"Different spice in the life," she laughed. 

On Feb. 24, Patel opened Quesada Burritos and Tacos on Bayfield St. with her long-time friend Ketul Patel, who already owns a Quesada on Yonge St. 

Quesada offers lots of variety, says the proud new businesswoman; tacos, quesadillas, burritos, burrito bowls and tortilla salads.

"Everything is made in-house - salsas, guacamole, all the toppings - and all our produce is from local producers. Meat comes from head office, marinated in house."

Quesada is a franchise and head office is in Toronto.

Patel moved to Barrie from India thirteen years ago as international student, attended Georgian College and this is where she and her husband are raising their two boys aged four and six.

Starting your own business isn't easy and definitely not as secure as her old job. 

"This is 13 hours every day. It is very different than working for someone because of course you're working a 9 to 5 job you don't have to worry about it.

But this is a new start.  It's going to be my baby."

She hopes to foster a family atmosphere both with customers and her staff.

Her main support is her husband whose backing her one hundred percent.

Patel and her partner quietly launched the restaurant in a bid to get to know the neighbourhood and people around them first.

The grand opening is slated for March 24 and 25 and will feature free burritos.

There will also be March break promotions and every month has a featured deal.

Patel loves to cook at home too and is a yoga instructor, so healthy eating is very important to her and her customers. 

"It's not about deals. It's about providing quality food."

Barrie's new Quesada is located at 331 Bayfield Street.


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Sue Sgambati

About the Author: Sue Sgambati

Sue has had a 30-year career in journalism working for print, radio and TV. She is a proud member of the Barrie community.
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