A Journey from Hobby to Success: The Story of Harry's Tavern
Harry’s Tavern is a well-known bar and restaurant located in Nairobi’s Eastlands, specifically at the junction connecting Kayole’s Spine Road to Manyanja Road. It has become a popular entertainment hub, drawing visitors from all over the area. The establishment is owned by Harrison Omutere, who has built a thriving business from what began as a simple hobby.
Who is Harrison Omutere?
Harrison Omutere is not only the owner of Harry’s Tavern but also a public servant working for the county government of Nairobi as a cartographer. Despite his success, he prefers to maintain a low profile, focusing more on his work and family life than on the spotlight.
From Hobby to Business
Omutere’s journey into the restaurant business began in 2000 when he started as a hobby in Komarock. His first bar and restaurant was called 2000 Plaza. Later, he moved to Komarock Shopping Centre, but the space proved too small for his growing ambitions. This led him to search for a larger location, eventually settling on the current site.
The area where Harry’s Tavern now stands was once a wasteland, used by construction workers from Umoja 2 to dump soil. However, Omutere saw its potential due to his experience as a mapping professional. He recognized the future significance of the junction even before the roads were fully developed.
Financial Commitment and Operational Costs
Running a successful business comes with its challenges, and Omutere is no stranger to these. He currently spends around KSh 300,000 per month on electricity and another KSh 300,000 on water, totaling KSh 600,000 in monthly utility costs alone. These expenses significantly impact the profit margin of the business.
In terms of staffing, Omutere employs approximately 50 people directly, with an additional 20 individuals running businesses in the surrounding area. To encourage competition, he has also leased some services to others, creating a dynamic environment that benefits both his business and the local community.
What Sets Harry’s Tavern Apart?
In a competitive nightlife industry like Nairobi’s, Omutere believes that accessibility is one of the key factors that set Harry’s Tavern apart. The venue is located in a densely populated area with good road connections, making it easy for customers to reach. Additionally, the tavern offers affordable prices and high-quality food, which has helped it gain a loyal customer base.
Omutere has also introduced unique entertainment options, such as having five Rhumba DJs, which adds a distinctive vibe to the establishment. Furthermore, he has sublet some space to vendors who specialize in preparing nyama choma, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
Maintaining a Low-Key Lifestyle
Despite the popularity of Harry’s Tavern, Omutere has maintained a low-key lifestyle. He attributes this to his personality, preferring to stay out of the limelight and focus on his work and family.
Family Life and Personal Values
Omutere describes himself as a Christian and a family man. He has six children and two wives—one based in the United States and the other in Kenya. His personal values emphasize the importance of family and faith, which play a significant role in his life.
Political Ambitions and Advocacy
Although Omutere is a public servant and close to power, he does not have political ambitions. However, he advocates for good governance and policies that support businesses. He believes that these are essential for the growth and success of enterprises like his.
Starting from Scratch
Omutere recalls how he started his business with very little capital. He bought the land and set up three rooms: one for the counter, one for storage, and one as the drinking area. Over time, he added temporary structures to expand the space. The first major expense was laying the foundation, which he funded by selling his house for KSh 2.2 million.
Challenges Faced
Like any business, Omutere has faced several challenges. One of the main issues has been the decline in purchasing power, as people now avoid expensive alcohol. High operational costs, such as daily expenses of around KSh 20,000 on water and electricity, also pose a challenge.
Government interference is another issue, particularly for alcohol businesses, which are often treated unfairly despite the fact that 80% of the income from alcohol is taxed and returned to the government. Omutere believes that maintaining neutrality in politics has helped his business survive different political regimes.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For aspiring entrepreneurs in the entertainment industry, Omutere offers some valuable advice. He emphasizes the importance of patience, investing in your own premises, and ensuring you have good human resources. He also warns against neglecting financial management, as many establishments fail due to poor accounting practices or mismanagement.
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