Actress and public servant Aiko Melendez ventured anew in the restaurant business as she recently opened the second branch of Geluk Gentri restaurant, marking another milestone for the European restaurant in Quezon City.
The newly opened location along Panay Avenue comes after the success of its first branch along Banawe Street, solidifying Geluk’s presence in Quezon City’s thriving culinary scene.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, who graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony, emphasized how the continuous expansion of businesses in the city serves as a testament to Quezon City’s reputation as the "most business-friendly city."
Ribbon cutting of Geluk Gentri restaurant in Quezon City.
Melendez clarified that this is not her first time to open a restaurant.
"Actually, we used to have a restaurant in Makati and it lasted for about seven years.," she said. “Now, we want to bring it to Quezon City naman. We waited and I feel now is the right time and with good people around, it's the same team, so now I think this is the right time. So ang edge namin would be having a business among friends. And this is going to be built with love. 'Yun ang mahalaga kase it least kami-kami ay all friends."
Despite concerns that celebrities venturing into business may take opportunities away from other entrepreneurs, Melendez believes that dedication and effort remain keys to success.
"We're all hard-working also. And I'd like to think that whatever we've invested here, the money, the time, the effort are all part of our hard work also,” she said.
She further explained that while their popularity helps in promoting the business, success ultimately depends on perseverance.
"Ang edge lang namin would be we're like a family at 'yung puhunan namin ay 'yung popularity namin to promote the business," the actress said. "But I think the main thing in all businesses is you work hard for everything you have."
Geluk Gentri is a must-try dining experience in Quezon City, offering European cuisine in an elegant yet affordable setting.
The servings are hefty and reasonably-priced. So get ready to indulge in a memorable dining experience and head to Panay Avenue and enjoy the finest European dishes right in the heart of Quezon City.