Fontaine

Business Name: Fontaine Caffe & Creperie
Address: 119 South Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 535-8151

What is your claim to fame?
I have yet to achieve it and I don't know if that is what I am working for. I am a very low-key person.

What makes you original and unique?
Myendless energy and self determination. I have always been able to work hard toward my goals, either in business or in personal life. I love to work and love life.

Who or what inspired you to come to Alexandria?
Peopleand all the things Old Town has to offer. Small community feel, easy access to DC, and Mt. Vernon trail. I love to run, cycle and any outdooractivities and Old town has perfect balance of big city and small town.You can walk to almost everything you want and need.

What is your secret to success?
Tome, success means doing what you love and living the life you want. First, my family and friends are the secret to my success. They provide the support and the love I need. Second, respect others and treat them as you want to be treated.

What is your proudest achievement?
Riskingeverything I own and leaving a great easy job to open Fontaine Caffe & Creperie and when I finished my first marathon, it was Marine CorpMarathon in 2000. I remember when I first moved to Arlington VA, 12 years ago from San Francisco and saw the Marine Corp marathon and say tomyself, I am going to run that one of these days.

Do you have a favorite Alexandria travel tip you are willing to share?
Iwould recommend at least couple of days to see Alexandria. Take your time and just explore, it's so full of history and charming local shops,arts, and eateries.

Best date idea in Alexandria?
Walkalong the Mt. Vernon trail and have a picnic by the river and go for anafter-dinner drink/dessert at Fontaine or Restaurant Eve.

If you had friends visiting Alexandria what would you tell them to do and see during their visit?
VisitMt. Vernon, do the Ghost tour, Torpedo Factory, walk the King street, bike to Gravelly point and watch the airplanes take off/land, and go offthe beaten path off the King Street.

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