June 16, 2014 · Team HG
Tonight, Patrick Beijk, owner of Mr. Mofongo, Mofongo’s Distillery & Cocktailbar, The Dog’s Bollocks, and Chaplin’s Pub, was named the Most Outstanding Hospitality Entrepreneur of the province of Groningen for 2014-2015 by the Royal Dutch Hospitality Association (Koninklijke Horeca Nederland).
The reason for this award is the impressive expansion of the already existing restaurant Mr. Mofongo in the center of Groningen and, across the street, the most recent project, The Dog’s Bollocks. Mofongo’s Distillery & Cocktailbar opened its doors in early 2013. In this concept, carefully crafted by Beijk, spirits are distilled in-house, original cocktails are created in the cocktail bar, and the robotic arm Armando is the eye-catcher behind the bar. Additionally, in mid-2013, Beijk opened The Dog’s Bollocks, a pub in the English tradition focusing on craft beers, live music, and football matches on a big screen. In the cellar, the spirits from Mofongo’s Distillery are stored in wooden barrels, providing a fantastic ambiance for hosting a special party.
Innovative entrepreneurs
With this award, Koninklijke Horeca Nederland honors entrepreneurs who operate in a distinctive and innovative manner, aiming to stimulate innovative hospitality entrepreneurship. The *Most Outstanding* competition begins regionally; Beijk is now proceeding to the national elections, with the ultimate winner being announced at Horecava in early 2015. Candidates for this award can be nominated by fellow entrepreneurs or other hospitality organizations or companies.
Creativity and experience
Beijk won the prize before, in 2001, when he was still the owner of Beijk Catering Service, The Chaplin’s Pub, and theater restaurant Het Ei van Columbus in Midlaren.
The jury was particularly impressed by the plans for Baloney’s Show Restaurant, which successfully opened a year later. At the time, the jury praised his organizational talent, team spirit, creativity, and his ability to think in concepts. Apparently, he hasn't lost that skill. After selling his catering company in 2005, Beijk spent several years primarily working as an underwater photographer and world traveler. As an underwater photographer, too, Beijk soon proved to distinguish himself in terms of creativity; he has won several photography competitions, including that of National Geographic.
Ultimately, his passion for entrepreneurship prevailed. He decided to put on his entrepreneurial shoes once again. According to Beijk, it is primarily about striking a balance between creativity and logistical feasibility: “Especially in this industry, it is important to distinguish yourself from other hospitality businesses. Guests want to experience something, to have an experience. It is therefore crucial to go just that little bit further than the rest and offer your guests a unique experience.”
Out of the box
Beijk is very pleased with his award: “It just goes to show that stepping outside the beaten path isn't such a bad idea after all. Winning this prize is a sign to me that I was on the right track and that thinking outside the box pays off.”
You can find more information about the Most Outstanding Hospitality Entrepreneur of the Netherlands www.meestmarkant.nl
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