Jimmy Leprêtre and Maëva Croc are happy young entrepreneurs. They left Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin) and their activity, to take over, a little over a year ago, in the summer of 2023, the Dong restaurant.
“He was losing momentum at the time”they recall. Bet successful. “ With our new team, we have changed the image that the establishment had,” located rue du Général-de-Gaulle in Laval (Mayenne). Jimmy and Maëva spared no effort, particularly adapting to the new rhythms of life. “ We understand that some customers enjoy their sushi platters while sitting on their couch. »
“A recognition”
On site, to take away or via Uber Eats, the entire menu is available, lunch and dinner. “Customers enjoy enjoying fast food in a cozy setting. We are regularly full and the number of orders is increasing. » For several months now, their establishment has been listed in the Gault & Millau regional guide. The young restaurateurs initially thought it was a joke when the guide contacted them. “ For two years, everything has been new for us. We are clearly not accustomed to this type of proposal. », they say.
This insert allowed them to gain notoriety and visibility. “Recognition of our quality and service comes from word of mouth,” they slip too.
“Confident for the future with the arrival of the new November 11 square”
The keys to success, according to them? The links with the Fourches fish market and the loyalty of their staff. “ There were four of us at the opening. We now have ten employees. We have chosen to make contracts, from six to twenty hours, with young people who are engaged in a long cycle of studies in Laval. They are happy to accompany us on our adventure », They indicate.
The development of Dong also continues outside the walls of the restaurant: Jimmy Leprêtre and Maëva Croc have joined the concierge service at the Laval hospital. “This allows hospital staff and patients to be delivered on site on Thursday lunchtime. »
“All the lights are green for us,” rejoice the entrepreneurs. “It’s a lot of work, because we are open every day, noon and evening. We are satisfied and confident for the future, with the arrival of the new November 11 place. Summer 2025 is tomorrow! We hope it will energize the street. » Between now and delivery, a refresh of the storefront is already planned.
Dong Sushi and Poké, 66, rue du Général-de-Gaulle in Laval, open every day, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. & from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (10 p.m. Friday and Saturday). Contact: tel: 02 43 58 33 92.
