Jonathan Jackson
The Union-Recorder
MILLEDGEVILLE —
Barberitos in downtown Milledgeville is famous for satisfying its patrons who crave burritos and fresh salads. The restaurant has recently welcomed new ownership and management as well.
Brothers Philip and Martin Kohnen recently purchased the establishment, and additionally, Philip Kohnen has taken over management of the restaurant. He said he is glad to take on the Barberitos focus on quality and freshness — a mission he has had a stake in crafting for the company for the past few years.
“I have high expectations of myself,” Kohnen said. “We are focused on consistency and high quality of taste and freshness.”
Kohnen, a graduate of the University of Georgia, started working for Barberitos in the company’s first store in Athens.
“I would work four days a week running the grill,” Kohnen said. “I continued working in the company while still in school.
Kohnen said he eventually became assistant manager at the location but took time to pursue his musical interests following college.
Upon returning home to family in Athens, he became manager of the second Barberitos location in Athens. Kohnen worked closely with company owner Downing Barber and was promoted to director of training for the franchise — training new franchise owners on running all aspects of the restaurant.
“Earlier this year, I heard about Barberitos Milledgeville,” Kohnen said. “I heard the previous owner wanted to sell the restaurant. I enjoyed the job as manager, but I wanted to do something for myself.”
The Kohnens purchased the franchise, and Philip, along with wife Nalinee, moved to Milledgeville in July. Philip said his wife, who is of Thai heritage, welcomes anyone interested in Thai culture or also of Thai heritage to consider her a resource. The husband and wife operate the restaurant as a team. Since moving, Philip said he has focused on consistency and the management of fresh ingredients.
“All our food is cooked from scratch,” Kohnen said. “Nothing is pre-cut or pre-bagged. We use whole foods.”
Kohnen said he also emphasizes customer service and will most likely still train new franchisees on some aspects of running Barberitos locations.
Currently, Barberitos Milledgeville offers free meals for kids after 3 p.m. with the purchase of an adult entree from the regular menu. Kohnen said the location will soon offer a “Frequent Roller” card program where customers will receive a free burrito after purchasing 10 burritos.
Barberitos has 22 locations in the southeast. Most are franchises.
The location in downtown Milledgeville is housed in two suites at 146 and 148 W. Hancock St. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. On Thursdays, the restaurant is open until 3 a.m.
