August 26, 2026
My Dang, owner of Ăn The Essence of Viet Comfort Food, is bringing affordable, traditional Vietnamese cuisine to the Fountain Valley community.
As a busy mother of two, My Dang saw a need in her community for healthy, affordable Vietnamese food that could be enjoyed by everyone, from local seniors to busy families like her own. When My came across the perfect location in Fountain Valley, she saw an opportunity to turn that need into a business and share the traditional Vietnamese comfort food she loves with her community.
While balancing a full-time schedule as a parent, My turned to the OCIE SBDC for guidance and resources to help make the process of opening her restaurant more manageable.
Working closely with a SBDC consultant Hang Harper, My received one-on-one support in developing her business plan, creating financial projections, and determining menu pricing to help position the restaurant for long-term success.
The OCIE SBDC also provided step-by-step guidance through the licensing process, helping My navigate the permits and documentation needed to prepare the restaurant for opening.
On March 27, My officially opened Ăn The Essence of Viet Comfort Food with the necessary permits and licenses in place. Since opening, the restaurant has created local job opportunities, generated sales, and successfully infused capital into the business.
Reflecting on her journey, My shared that one of the most valuable parts of working with the OCIE SBDC was the one-on-one consulting that helped her reach the finish line. She also valued the connections she was able to build with city officials and other local businesses throughout the process.
Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. Access expert business consulting, training, and resources at no cost to you. Whether you are launching a new idea or scaling an existing business, the OCIE SBDC is here to help you succeed.
Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment today.
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from OCIE SBDC. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the Safe Unsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email.
Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.
Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.
