First panini restaurant opens in Hâncești
After spending 18 years in Italy, Artur Boldurescu returned to his hometown of Hâncești with a clear dream: to bring authentic Italian flavors to the area. He succeeded by investing in and opening a panini restaurant, the only one of its kind in the city. The establishment has already won over customers with its fresh ingredients and unique preparations.
In Italy, Artur Boldurescu worked in both the construction and HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) sectors, where he managed several restaurants.
"I was already bored with the routine there; I felt like a robot. I no longer found satisfaction in my work, and money no longer gave me any pleasure. I decided to challenge myself once again and give myself a limit by going to Moldova to start everything from scratch," explained entrepreneur Artur Boldurescu.
He started his new venture in Moldova this summer, employing five people. His girlfriend, Bianca, supported his decision.
"Honestly, when I first heard that he wanted to move to Moldova, I didn't believe it. But then I saw that he was looking for locations, and I encouraged him to continue with his plan. I am from Romania, I am not from this region," said Bianca Diaconu.
"At the opening, I didn’t expect so many people to show up, but we had over 700 visitors. My hands were burning from making paninis," confessed the entrepreneur.
"Artur and I met like true Moldovans among godparents, since we are both godparents to the same child. I was working in Bucharest when he reached out to me to let me know he was opening a restaurant. He asked, 'Are you coming?' I replied, 'I’m coming.' And that's how we’ve been working together for the past four months," said Victor Șoroba, an employee.
The restaurant has already gained a loyal customer base who appreciate the quality of the products:
"We are glad he took the risk to open a business here at home. We enjoy coming to have a coffee and a panini; the girls prepare them really well. Bravo! Everything is fresh and tasty."
"I believe I am the most loyal customer here. I come daily for coffee, a panini, and other products. I am thrilled with this restaurant; they offer local Italian products that have a unique and special taste."
"We come here often because we enjoy the atmosphere. Everything is well-prepared, and the service is excellent. The food is delicious. You can't find such quality anywhere else in the city."
The entrepreneur acknowledges that his journey has not been easy, but he is ambitious about expanding his business.
"Being an entrepreneur in Moldova is challenging, just like in many other places. If you set a goal and know what you want, you will succeed. For me, the goal is growth. I plan to add pasta to our menu, not just paninis, and I want to offer Italian pizza so that there will be authentic Italian pizza available in Hânceşti too," said entrepreneur Artur Boldurescu.
Artur Boldurescu has invested over 100,000 euros in his business.
Reporter: Camelia Babeica
