Interview with Tyler Johnson and Brett Carson, co-owners
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: We play in a local punk/ska band and we practice close to Large Marge’s. We used to meet up early and would break for lunch at Large Marge’s before practicing with the band. One day we were there at the right time, and Margie was ready to part ways with the place and said she would sell it to us. We joked back and forth a bit and realized she was serious. We did some math and realized it was possible for us to go through with the purchase. Almost two years later, we are still here in the original location and business is booming.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: There are a few reasons we don’t fit the mold of “the other Philly guys.” We have been locally voted best Philly in Denver in another local publication since 2011. We have a line of hot sauces that complement the Phillys very well for all levels of spice lovers. We are in the process of developing both a spicy eating challenge and a quantity eating challenge. We have a process for making sure our food is fresh for every guest every time, from the way we store and rotate down to cooking every sandwich and side fresh to order, yet in a timely manner.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Every day in this line of work is different. Every day is a different guest, a new guest and a regular guest, and with that comes different, new or regular conversations and situations. Every day is a new learning experience, whether it’s fixing a broken piece of equipment, or having a new opportunity to expand the business.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Trying to find time in the day to stay on top of everything. Every time we hire another employee, we take another step up in business and end up even again. It’s a great “problem” to have but it’s still a challenge to overcome.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: People are always surprised to learn that we purchased the business while in our 20s. We never went to college, we play in a touring punk rock band and we both have families.
Profile
Business: Large Marge’s Philly Cheesesteaks
Address: 3890 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge
Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2006
Contact: 303-463-4549, largemarges.com
Employees: 5
