A good slice of pizza is essential to survival. Well, that’s at least how I see it. Thankfully, Richard Schiffer has been creating one-of-a-kind slices of pizza in Venice Beach, CA for the past 19 years. Right in the middle of “America’s Coolest Block“, as GQ has described, is Abbot’s Pizza Company.
Not only has this place been here for years, it’s one of the only places you can still feed a family of four for $20 on the newly-gentrified Abbot Kinney Blvd. On top of affordability, the pizza is undeniably delicious. It is a constant stop when I’m in need of a bomb-ass slice, which is pretty often. We wanted to find out who is behind the neighborhood pizzeria and got in touch with the owner, Richard Schiffer, to get his perspective on owning this scrumptious Venice Beach landmark.
How long has your shop been open?
19 years in Venice Beach, CA.
How long have you known you wanted to do what you are currently working on?
Serving others is an honor and is something I was taught as a young person.
Why are you passionate about what you do?
Working with my crew and our guests is fulfilling and brings lasting joy.
How did you overcome your own doubts and the doubts of other people?
By realizing that we all make bad decisions at times and it’s how you handle these situations that determines your success.
What were some bumps you hit to get where you’re at now?
Waiting too long to make decisions I knew were correct because change is uncomfortable.
What is one thing you did wrong in the past that you can share with people?
Listening to people’s opinions of themselves instead of observing how they treated others, which shows their true nature.
What is a way you got your name out there?
Being authentic with our guests and consistent day after day, proved to be the best advertising in the long run.
Is there anything that almost stopped you from doing this?
Just embrace change and adapt to every challenge with a quiet confidence.
Is there anyone in your profession that you admire and/or model yourself after?
A burger place on Pico blvd that’s been there for many decades called, THE APPLE PAN.
How do you continue to perfect your craft?
By always creating and improving our menu items, providing the best service we can day after day, and being as consistent as possible.
How do you envision the future of your product/services?
Continuing to innovate and create by pushing the boundaries and dimensions of the pizza multiverse.
What’s some advice you can share for anyone who wants to pursue what you are doing?
Choose a proven profession and something you truly enjoy and put your unique twist into it…everyone thinks you have to invent some new idea or product.
You have a nice online website. How much of your business is driven by online buyers/clients?
Yes…enticing your potential guests through an impressive site and facilitating ordering for your established clientele is a no brainer. Make it interactive as possible with videos, pictures and testimonials.
Where can people go to find out more about your awesome products/services?
Look for an improved website in the next few months …call our pizzaeria and speak with our manager Juan or ask for me, Richie…check out our as well.
Thanks Richard!
“Live life with passion!”
-7 Days Theory
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