With over 7500+ Facebook friends combined, TRU Alumni Dino Bernardo (BBA,’97) and Chris
Monteleone (BBA, ‘05), owners of the Commodore Grand Café and Lounge have a network worth its weight in gold.
After working in the restaurant industry for years both men had aspirations of owning their own business. What they lacked in entrepreneurial experience they made up for with complimentary skill sets and one of the most extensive networks in Kamloops. They attribute that network to time spent at TRU both inside and outside of the classroom.
“Our education played a factor in our success for sure, but even more important than what we learned in the classroom was the networks we built along the way. Chris and I are connected through soccer and even though we are seven years apart in age, we share that network,” said Bernardo.
The duo, with roots in Italian heritage, have been involved in the soccer community as coaches and players for years. Monteleone played for the UCC Sun Demons and Bernardo was an assistant coach. Bernardo is also the President of the Kamloops Bronco’s, sits on the TRU Alumni & Friends Association, the RIH Foundation, is Vice President of the Kamloops Sports Council and sits on the City of Kamloops Parks and Recreation board.
Chris Monteleone and Dino Bernardo showcase some of the Commodore’s delicious cuisine.
Bernardo also gives back to TRU students as a career mentor, helping students to understand and experience the value of networking with business professionals in the community.
The Commodore Grand Café and lounge is one of the most popular venues in Kamloops and is a labour of love. Stop in for lunch or dinner on any given day and one of the two co-owners are somewhere to be found.
The historic Commodore – now called ‘The Commodore Grand Cafe and Lounge” has been a cornerstone in Kamloops since the 1980’s.
“The hardest part about owning a business is that you can never leave. You have to be there, every day, all day,” said Bernardo.
He says their greatest accomplishment was celebrating their nine year anniversary this year and becoming owners of the historic downtown building.
“Honestly, being open and continuing to grow and offer new services after nine years is a success in a market where the average new restaurant/bar lasts four years,” he said.
When asked about what advice he would give to anyone looking to become an entrepreneur, Bernardo said that he encourages people to follow their dreams but cautions them to manage expectations.
“It’s important to keep sight of your dreams but to start small and expand over time. Trying to become too big too fast will get you into trouble.”
The Commodore is located at 369 Victoria Street and is open Monday – Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. Visit them online at http://www.commodorekamloops.com
