Owned by married couple entrepreneurs, Chef Romeo and Milka Regalli, Ras Plant Based leads as a family and operates like one, too. People are at the heart of everything and that is recognized and experienced by their workforce to first-time and returning guests to the community making this a popular gathering spot for locals and city visitors alike. The Ras Plant Based menu stands out by offering a unique blend of flavors and cultures in the delicious plant-based dishes they serve appealing to everyone, not just vegans. This husband-and-wife business team is committed to quality ingredients and creative recipes, combined with a warm atmosphere ensuring that every visit feels like coming home.
Why a vegan menu? How have you infused both of your family backgrounds into the recipes?
We chose a plant-based menu because we believe in the transformative power of vegan eating for health, sustainability, and compassion. The inspiration for this journey began when my father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017. I became his personal chef to help him on his path to recovery. Thanks to the right combination of science and food, he is now cancer-free. Our menu not only highlights the deliciousness of plant-based food but also serves as a platform for positive change within our community and the environment.
You have a six-point moral compass. How has that influenced your menu and customer service?
Our core values are the foundation of everything we do, guiding our decisions and interactions. They are hospitality, integrity, love, teamwork, respect, and accountability. By following each of these points, we are able to ensure that our restaurant is not just a place to eat, but a community where everyone feels valued and cared for. This moral compass not only shapes our delicious, ethically responsible menu but also defines the enriching experiences we create. We measure success by our ability to uphold these values while fostering a vibrant community, and of course, serving delicious food that brings our customers back over and over again.
How important was receiving a James Beard Foundation Semi-Finalist Award to your growth?
This was a tremendous honor for us both personally and professionally. Being named a James Beard Foundation Semi-Finalist was a significant milestone for us and validated our hard work and commitment to excellence, enhancing our visibility and credibility in the industry. This recognition has opened doors to new opportunities and partnerships. Most definitely, it has been instrumental in fueling our growth.
What are your best practices for managing two locations?
Our two locations in New York City are in Brooklyn and the West Village. They are approximately 5 miles apart making it possible for us to check-in from one to the other. They both operate seamlessly through effective communication and strong leadership is crucial for managing multiple locations. We prioritize team training and consistency in our brand experience across both sites and having already set clear expectations, we know each is running as they should. We have made it a point to empower all team members to take ownership which helps ensure both locations thrive.
How important has social media been to your customer engagement and growth?
Social media is essential for building our brand and connecting with our community. It allows us to showcase our food, share our story, and engage directly with our guests. The feedback we receive online drives our continuous improvement and innovation, fostering growth.
Do you have a social impact mission or community give-back program?
We are committed to making a positive impact in our community. One organization that we have really enjoyed working with is Beats By Girlz. They are a nonprofit that empowers girls, women, and the non-binary community through music.
What is your advice for aspiring restaurateurs?
We invite all up-and-coming restaurateurs to follow our moral compass (posted on our website) to have a solid foundation to build on. These 6 points can be the guide toward staying true to your vision and values and being prepared for the hard work and challenges that lie ahead. Always remember your passion for food and community. Surround yourself with a supportive team and continuously seek feedback to adapt and grow. Building a successful restaurant takes time, so be patient and persistent.
Tenyse Williams is an award-winning Brand Strategist, an Adjunct Instructional Specialist at Columbia University and George Washington University, and Founder & Chief Communications Officer of Verified Consulting, leading a team of digital marketing professionals amplifying awareness for their clients. Follow her on LinkedIn.
