Westwood Small Business Q&A: Chiara Bistro

Westwood is home to a number of small businesses, and as such we thought we'd begin checking in with store and restaurant owners on a weekly basis for some thoughts about what they do, what makes them unique and how they are faring in the economic climate. 

This week we talk with owner and executive chef , who provides some insight on what's hot on the menu, as well as how business has fared in the last couple of years. The restaurant is currently engaged in Boston Restaurant Week, which runs through April 1. 

Be sure to check back each week for a Question and Answer session with a new local business owner. 

Westwood Patch: How often do you update items on your menu? 

Steve LaCount: The menu can always been seen on our website. We updated it about every six weeks. 

WP: What would you say is your most popular dish?

SL: We've always had some type of a gnocchi dish that changes seasonally. Right now it's got asparagus, baby potatoes and truffle porcini cream.

WP: What do you feel is a benefit about being a small business in Westwood?

SL: It's just the location in general. The area was in dire need of a downtown-style restaurant. We filled a niche that needed to be filled. Business seems to steadily increase every year as the surrounding community discovers us. 

In the last two years we've seen a large increase in business from Newton, Needham and Wellesley. After six years, we've had quite the established base from Dedham, Dover, Westwood, Medfield and Walpole. I guess the advantage is there are enough customers that meet our demographics in this area that prefer to come to us, rather than to drive into the city.

WP: How has the economy affected you in the last year? 

SL: We've had substantial increase in business the last two consecutive years. The economic downturn may have helped us, because we've got better prices than the city and free parking, and it's a lot more convenient.

WP: What is one thing people might not know about Chiara?

SL: Even though we don't do lunch, we are available for private luncheons and other events, such as bridal showers or christenings. We also have a full catering license.