New Rochelle Small Business Spotlight: Recologie

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

• Business: Recologie
• Owners: Maria Cisneros, Judith Weber, Dianne de la Veaux
• Website: www.recologie.com
• Address: 49 Lawton Street, New Rochelle, NY 10801

How did you come up with the name?

Recologie is a way of “re-experiencing” a respect for our ecology focusing attention on the importance of the environment and to raise awareness of the impact of the consumer through their buying and dining habits.

Why start a business in this town?

New Rochelle is a culturally rich community and we wanted to bring something unique to a city that is on the verge of development. It has a history that supports arts and culture, a downtown beginning to be known for fine dining and a population of young interested families that provide the potential for growth.

What business are you in?

We are a unique multi-use venue where you can dine, shop, enjoy live music, be part of a community event or have a private party. Our restaurant, Gather at Recologie is committed to fine vegetarian, plant based, gourmet dining in a loft-like environment featuring a global fair trade boutique, a gallery and an events space. We are a mission driven business committed to sustainability.

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

The most difficult challenge has been in finding sources of development capital. As a small business, it takes 2-3 years to really get a sound footing and un-anticipated development costs are a challenge.

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

We are very proud that we have grown slowly, but always stayed focused on our vision. Our most significant achievement has been the growth of the restaurant and how our customers enjoy not only our food, sustainable wines and craft beers, but the entire environment which is warm and welcoming. It encourages people to stay, enjoy, wine and dine and frequently listen to great live music!

How does your business give back to the community?

We support local artists, encourage local organizations to use our space and hire local employees. We firmly believe that the local economy is benefitted by what we have to offer. Our space is used by many who cannot find small, very affordable places to gather, conference, perform, and, in general, make their voices heard.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.