When UCI Graduate Raymond Mangune discussed with his brother Mario the concept of owning a restaurant someday, he envisioned an upscale venue that still had a bit of a “Filipino family party” appeal. “I wanted a place people can relax, socialize, and have a great time. It didn’t matter if people just wanted a place to kick back after a long day of work or if they wanted to entertain family that came to town.”
Raymond took the plunge with partners in 2002 in opening a restaurant that reflected this vision. Years later, Gerry’s grill completed an expansion that allows diners to sit an a large modern setting. With the larger venue, Gerry’s has appeal for the “after work” crowd with bar stool seating and more space in general.
Ray shared, “One of the largest challenges I experienced in running Gerry’s Grill was getting accustomed to how detailed I had to get with the company’s finances. I wanted to run a true American business that allowed us to track overhead expenses, ingredient costs, and labor. ”
Ray is also the owner of South Street Dental in Cerritos.
Attend FACCOC’s “Secrets to Success” on April 16th to hear Raymond Mangune’s story along with DJ Eman, Mayor Mark Pulido, Gina Alexander, and Dennis Calvero of Crooks & Castles.