The Hartford Small Biz Ahead: Lessons and Advice for Growing a Restaurant Business

Chef Derick Lopez talks about his experiences as a restaurant owner

This week I talk with executive chef and owner of The Freakin Rican Restaurant, Derick Lopez, about how the operation started in Astoria, Queens, his family roots and cultural heritage, lessons he’s learned in a business that’s always changing (especially in the post-pandemic era) — and his advice for those who are thinking about opening a restaurant.

Listen HERE