Hello again to all of my readers. I would like to start by saying how it was great to see many of you and meet new people at PMQ's New York Pizza Show. It's been a very busy Fall so far. Since my last article, I have wrapped up several exciting new ventures. First, I've just gotten done with my first movie, which should be on TV within the next month or two. The name of the movie is Eddie Monroe the Bank Robber. In the movie, my character hunts down Eddie Monroe to try and kill him. I don't want to give away the whole movie, so be watching for it. In March, we are scheduled to film an even bigger movie about two brothers who each own pizza shops and, you guessed it, don't like each other very much. I'll let you know more about it when filming begins. But, let's get to the point of this month's article.

PMQ ADVERTISERS

As you know, I work with a major equipment supplier. I see it all of the time...people trying to cut corners and take the less expensive road when building a shop, remodeling or replacing equipment. I try to tell them that you always get what you pay for. If you buy cheap stuff, you pay double because, believe me, you'll be replacing it very soon. If only people would listen to a voice of reason and experience they could save time, headaches and money. Here is a good case in point: Thomas Wallace and Rich Baer of Albert's Pizza in Long Island, New York, asked me to help them choose the right pizza table. They decided to go against my advice and buy a cheaper one. I wished them luck and walked away. Two months later I received a letter from them I will share with you to prove my point. I am going to stop the story here and let you read the letter...

Dear Chef Bruno,

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for all your time and help regarding the (equipment suggestion). Unfortunately, I had to purchase a different one and what a nightmare it has been! The unit I purchased wasn't near the quality of your suggestion and I am now sorry that I didn't choose the one you recommended from the beginning. I figured I could save a few thousand dollars by buying a cheaper version, but I soon realized that I could have saved myself a lot of time and frustration if I had listened to your advice from the start! As the owner of a well-established, Long Island Pizzeria, I urge everyone not to make the same mistake I did...buy quality equipment and save yourself the headaches I went through! Once again...Chef Bruno, let me thank you for your help and time regarding this matter!

Sincerely Yours,
Rich Baer – Albert's Pizza
Ronkonkoma, NY

I'll keep this short because my point is clear; before you make a purchase for your restaurant, check with experienced, qualified professionals for advice. Once you get it, don't try to be cheap. Just like your food, if you buy cheap stuff, you'll regret it in the end. You'll always end up paying more to correct your mistake in the end than if you would have just spent the money you needed to in the beginning. Until next time...Ciao!Chef Bruno

– PMQ –