BoQ Entrepreneur: Kyle Jones
An interview with Kyle Jones (pictured right) of Flossie’s Sandwich Parlour in Belleville.
Flossie’s Sandwich Parlour serves up handcrafted, signature creations highlighting local farms and ingredients.
Driving through the region on a detour to my hometown in the Ottawa Valley my wife and I fell in love with the landscape of the BoQ and quickly recognized the thriving entrepreneurial spirit and support of the surrounding communities. Working a fairly promising career, my heart knew it was time for a change and with our first son on the way. I knew the BoQ was the perfect place to raise him as well as birth my sandwich dreams!
What makes the Bay of Quinte a good fit for your business?
James Beard once said “Too few people understand a really good sandwich” but the people of the BoQ seem to get it. I try to be creative but also take a spin on some classics and the people in the community have been supportive and encouraging. They’ve welcomed our family and allowed it to feel like home from the onset. It’s something I’ll always appreciate and hope to always give that appreciation back through our sandwiches and our community involvement.
What was the hardest thing about starting a business?
Not knowing anything about it. There’s some real imposter syndrome going on in my head every day but each day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Recognizing the importance of perspective, do I grumble and coward to my ignorance, or do I step out grateful that I have the opportunity to learn as I grow while doing what I love? Might sound easy, but let me tell you it is not!
How has your business expanded in recent years?
We’ve recently taken over a new space at 250 Sidney street, in the Old Nortel Cafeteria. We’re hoping to really flip the script on our offerings and bring something new to Belleville. Something we don’t believe is currently available in the city. We’ll be taking a step away from (some) of the food truck offerings and leaning into more of a classic Italian style deli with made to order freshly sliced sandwiches as well as a grocer. The grocer will highlight some of our popular made from scratch soup, lasagnas and casseroles as well as a ton of locally made products from some of our friends in the industry and surrounding area
What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
How do you like to spend your days off?
What are some other local businesses you like to support?
The Brake Room, of course! They’re just the best and we wouldn’t be where we are without Adam & Laura. Pure Honey Boutique, when looking for something special for Nelda. Tropical Blends for a boost. I’m old school so I love a proper dinner at Paulo’s.
