The Secret of My Success: Derrick Dikkers

Derrick Dikkers and his wife, Mieke, have lived in Pelham for more than 20 years and have owned and operated in Mamaroneck for 15 years.

Prior to opening Le Provencal Bistro, Dikkers  experience at the renowned l’Oustau de Baumaniere in Les Baux deProvence and the famed restaurant Maxim’s in Paris and Singapore.

The bistro serves a medley of Mediterranean French cuisine. The interior of the bistro, with its butter-yellow walls, brilliant sunflowers, rustic mirrors, and artwork from the Provençe, was designed to evoke the natural artistry of the countryside of France.

In celebration of its 15th Anniversary and in gratitude to its loyal customers, Le Provençal is throwing own “Restaurant Week” through Nov. 15. Throughout the week, the restaurant will serve a three-course dinner special reflecting the restaurants entire menu for only $28. The menu is available here.

What drew you to your profession?What do you find interesting about the work you do for a living?

My parents always lavish dinner parties at our house, and I loved to help the caterers and my mom.  Pride in serving a quality product that people enjoy, and meeting new people

How did/do you balance your career with family life?

That is a difficult side of being in the restaurant business. However, my wife Mieke works side by side, and my children, who might notfollow me in the restaurant business, have all worked in the restaurant in different capacities.  Furthermore, we look forward to our annual family vacation.

If you could change one career decision you’ve made, what would it be?

I would have opened my own restaurant much sooner.

What are some key lessons you've learned in your professional and personal life that you think everyone can learn from?

High quality is a priority. You cannot please everybody. Be open-minded to your customers' wishes.

What are the three most important things a person needs to be successful? Why?

The ability to work within a budget, self confidence and being goal oriented. 

What is your definition of success?

Ability to succesfully balance your work and family life.

If you could give advice to a recent graduate or someone just beginning their career, what would you tell them?

Don't be afraid to start at a lower level in order to thoroughly learn all faces of the business.

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