The restaurant she opened in 2014 in picturesque Galston, on the fringes of Sydney’s northwest, has been judged as one of the finest destinations on Sydney’s doorstep.
Yet despite thriving as a local gem and popular with both locals and visitors, Ms Saini reveals she has struggled to keep the restaurant open, but thanks to patrons and dedicated staff who keep her persevering and growing as a small business.
“As a local business, we support our community and like many other businesses, we face challenges especially during the pandemic," she said.
“But our loyal patrons and staff helped us continue to grow.”
Within the Hills Shire, there are more than 25,000 small business owners like Ms Saini.
Her restaurant is set in one of the historic properties in Galston, located less than 40 kilometres from Sydney CBD, that a daytrip can be reach within an hour by car, and nearly two hours by public transport..
A charming place with an exquisitely landscaped garden to enjoy any time of the day, and a short walk to the Hornsby Shire’s popular Fagan Park.
“Guests often tell us they love the feeling of stepping into a hidden oasis right in the heart of Galston, which is a beautiful town with a rich history.
“Our guests enjoy exploring the shops, art galleries, scenic trails and they do that before or after a visit to our restaurant.”
Numerous weddings and milestones have been spent at Ms Saini’s restaurant, along with simple pleasures such as quiet brunch and dinners and early risers are most welcome to graze a scrumptious breakfast offering.
Ms Saini said their varieties of food supply come from local farmers and producers so they can proudly say “we are a farm-to-table restaurant”.
Measuring her pandemic losses is now a thing of the past for Ms Saini but as a small business in the current economic condition, she is navigating a crossroad.
“Our customers want us to keep our costs down, but in reality, we have to meet the cost of our supply and keep up with the wages for our hardworking staff, it’s quite challenging,” Ms Saini said.
“Everyone in the hospitality industry seems to be struggling, we need to get help if anything is available to keep us going.”
For more details, visit www.thevintagesecretgarden.com.au
