Ave Maria Restaurateur Expands Local Dining Options with Vicky Bakery Franchise

Phong Ho, a longtime resident and restaurateur in Ave Maria, Florida, has significantly expanded the local dining scene through strategic franchise acquisitions, most recently adding Vicky Bakery to his portfolio in May 2024. This move addresses the community's demand for diverse breakfast options and underscores the importance of tailored business development in growing residential areas.

Ho's journey into the restaurant business began at age 25 when his father suggested opening a Tropical Smoothie Café in the Ave Maria Town Center. Despite initial unfamiliarity with smoothies, this decision proved successful, laying the foundation for his future ventures. Thirteen years later, in 2022, he opened OASIS The Kitchen Lounge, responding to the community's need for a sit-down eatery, which quickly gained popularity and was recognized among the "New and Best Restaurants in Southwest Florida" by the Naples Daily News.

The addition of Vicky Bakery marks a strategic expansion into the breakfast segment. Ho selected this franchise based on resident feedback and thorough research, including visits to Miami to meet the family owners. Vicky Bakery, a family-owned Cuban pastry shop founded in 1972, has over 30 locations in Florida and is known for its authentic recipes unchanged since its inception. This franchise brings a beloved brand to Ave Maria's west coast, enhancing local culinary diversity.

Ho's business decisions reflect a deep understanding of community needs, as evidenced by resident enthusiasm. One resident notably expressed, "I would die for a Vicky at Ave," highlighting the high demand for such offerings. This alignment between business strategy and consumer preferences is crucial for the economic vitality of master-planned communities like Ave Maria, where dining options play a key role in resident retention and attraction.

Looking ahead, Ho aims to continue supporting Ave Maria's growth through further developments, emphasizing his commitment to providing essential services and enhancing the town's appeal. His success demonstrates the impact of localized entrepreneurship on community development, offering a model for other growing areas seeking to balance residential expansion with commercial amenities.