Benjy Mikel and Amy Mikel, the new owners Tabby D’s Family Restaurant (Andalusia) on October 11, 2021, had one goal: to give back.
“Honestly, it was a bizarre chance of fate. Dewayne Scroggins and Rita Scroggins, our next-door neighbors, suggested selling the business one of these days. Amy explained that Benjy and her husband, Benjy, have spent their careers in different areas of the food industry. This sparked their interest. We have talked about giving back, especially Andalusia being our hometown. I left home 40 years ago to travel the world, but I always look back on how my brothers followed my father’s footsteps and made a difference in the lives and communities they lived in. Tabby D’s allows Amy and I to hopefully make a positive difference in the community,” Benjy said.
While the restaurant is largely unchanged, diners will notice a return to the buffet.
“Everyone in the neighborhood begged us to bring back the all you can eat buffet. We did, two weeks after we took over. You can see that an all-you’ll-eat buffet is expensive and has a low return on investment. It depends on high customer traffic to generate cash flow. Amy stated that the community has been supportive and allowed us to succeed.
She said that the menu has not been changed much because of their success. We are constantly looking for new items to add variety and spice to the buffet. We will still stick to our Southern comfort foods line of cooking and ingredients.
Mikels believe they are like other restaurant owners in the region.
Andalusia is home to many wonderful, locally-owned and managed establishments. We are closed for breakfast and dinner so we try to visit as many as possible. We know many local owners who work hard, make great food and are passionate about their business. We are all new to the business, so we try to make everyone feel like we are part of the family.
A successful restaurant will have a great customer service team.
“I saw a Ted Talk recently about unreasonable hospitality. It basically stated that everyone should expect great food and exceptional service. You must do more than the norm to excel. Benjy stated that we have the most talented staff and strive to exceed customer expectations every day.
Benjy believes that the next five-years will be a good year for the company.
“While only God knows the future of the business, we are determined to help the community and grow it. We believe we can help others by being a role model and doing the right thing. The community will benefit if we keep growing the business. Amy keeps me grounded, even though we do discuss the possibility of changing things. However, I would love to offer a limited drive-thru and, if it is supported by the community, maybe a Saturday morning buffet or Monday night special.
They are proud to give back to the community for many reasons.
“I’ve lived in many places but Andalusia is my favorite. It offers a great quality of life and a wide range of people. This community has so much to offer, whether it’s young couples starting out or retired people. We aim to support this effort in all that we do. Benjy stated that the staff and she want to have an impact on the community, whether it’s by distributing leftovers to first responders, food donations to schools and churches, or providing plates for the hungry, homeless, or shut-ins, Benjy added.
He believes that everyone has a purpose.
“I have spent 40 years traveling in countries like Colombia, China and Panama. I now realize that my purpose in life is to help others. Although I have supported my professional organization over the years and continue to do so, I feel the need for Andalusia to repay those who helped me get on the right track so many years back. My family had a profound impact on me but so many people in the community gave young children an opportunity to grow and develop as no other place on Earth. To everyone who has touched my life, I want to express my deepest gratitude. You can always count on me to help you along your journey. I guarantee we will all move forward in life together.
Tabby D’s can be found at 1421 MLK Jr. Expressway, Andalusia. There are currently 17 employees working at the restaurant. They also offer call-in and online ordering options. Catering services are also available. Call 334-222-878 for more information.
Benjy stated that they are grateful to be back in their hometowns and were more than happy to help the people of Andalusia and Covington County and the surrounding communities. Amy said, “I am so glad to have built an Andalusia life.”
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