Meet Pat Bennett | Culinarian and Clevelands Small Business Ambassador

We had the good fortune of connecting with Pat Bennett and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pat, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I originated the idea for Pat’s Granola 30 years ago when I started making granola in my tiny New York apartment kitchen. I’d enjoyed granola while on a college ski trip to Vermont and was hooked on the crunch, ingredients and taste. The inspiration behind it was my search for a nutritious, satisfying and delicious snack that would knock off those hunger pangs, be a complete meal or a healthy snack.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I founded Pat’s Granola and ran it for almost six years. As a micro business in the very competitive snack foods/cereals space was a challenge, however, being an entrepreneur was life changing. Creating a food product is highly nuanced and at times was very stressful. It taught me that business ownership isn’t for the lightweight; its hard work and its a long game. My so-called overnight success took almost 30 years to manifest. I am most proud of having product placement in 20 retail locations across Northeast Ohio, including Hudson News at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Also, having been featured in the Makers issue of Cleveland Magazine was a high point. I’m grateful to many supporters of me and my business over the years.

I’ve transitioned from a production based food business owner to a consultant who provides coaching to small business clients. The work of engaging with small business owners is invigorating. I mirror my own experience in starting a new business in these owners. I’ve taken the lessons learned to help shape the next generation of business owners..Last fall I assumed the role of President of Les Dames d’Escoffier (LDEI) Cleveland Chapter, an international organization of women leaders who create an inclusive and supportive culture in their communities to achieve excellence in the food, beverage, farming and hospitality professions. LDEI provides leadership, educational opportunities and hosts philanthropic events within our communities raising money to fund career advancement grants and scholarships, while furthering education and appreciation of our industry..

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a guide to a first-time visitor to Cleveland, I’d start my “tour” in the Waterloo Arts District in North Collinwood, stopping to pick up a Cortado coffee and a Black Sheep Baking ginger molasses cookie at Six Shooter. Over coffee while strolling down Waterloo Road, I’d point out Beachland Ballroom, Citizen Pie, Praxis Fiber Workshop, Azure Stained Glass Studio and Raddells Sausage. Hopping back in the car, we’d proceed down Westropp Avenue to E. 140 Street to Lakeshore Boulevard passing through Bratenahl along Lake Erie. I’d politely ask the gate guard at Bratenahl Place if we could drive up close to the Lake so my friend could snap a few pics. Also share that Bratenahl Place has a restaurant and bar that is a popular spot for residents in the community. Head over to Rte 90/2 pointing out The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center and Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Exit at W. 28th Street driving through Ohio City toward W. 25 Street. Park at the Westside Market and visit some favorite stalls including Kate’s Fish, Market Import Store, Ritas, The Cheese Shop, Home Pantry, Urban Herbs, Jump back into the car and head down Lorain Avenue to Juneberry Table for a delicious brunch. Time permitting, we could walk off brunch at either the Cleveland Museum of Art or The Cleveland Museum of Natural History h. Head back to my home for a nap before venturing out to dinner at either Batuqui for feijoda on Larchmere, Zhug for Mediterranean mezzo on Cedar Road or Abundance Culinary for Beijing Zhejiang noodles and honey ma wings on Lee Road. If it was Friday, hands down we’d head over to The Cornerstone on Lee Road for fried perch and grilled scampi. The owners of these restaurants take great care to offer excellent food and service.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are many people and organizations that have “poured” support, mentorship, encouragement and love into me. First and foremost, I have to credit my parents for their strong work ethic, love of family and service to their community.. Their belief that you can do anything in this life if you do the work had guided me. I began volunteering as a nursing home candy striper in my community at age 14 in St. Albans, NY. This experience ignited my heart to the power of helping people. After graduating from college, I began my career as a banker and taught financial literacy and reading to residents in underserved communities. On a Community Service Day sponsored by United Way, I was introduced to food pantries and meal distributions from charities throughout New York City. At one point, I was a cook, server, driver and all around helper making sure people had food to eat. It was very humbling work.

Fast forward, after moving to Cleveland, I worked at a hospice and met some of most memorable people of my life. Each of these souls contributed to my life experience. The city of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio also opened my eyes to the possibility of starting a food business. The Women’s Business Center and the Small Business Development Corporation at Lorain County Community College were instrumental in helping me turn my granola hobby into a full-fledged business. Other organizations, including JumpStart, the Urban League, Shaker Development Corporation and National Association of Women Business Owners provided invaluable support, training and mentorship. I’m indebted to these organizations as advocates and champions of small businesses in our communities.

Instagram: @patskitchentable