Sarkis, trained in civil engineering at Northeastern University, was occupied by other matters for the next two years, but kept his business plan in the back of his head. In 1990, he made an offer to the owner of a coffee shop called Biscotti, which occupied the building at the time. This time he met with success.

Sarkis bought the business from the owners and set out to transform it into something all his own.

And how did he acquire such coveted property so easily? He chalks it up to good timing.

Sarkis says Biscotti was a joint venture between a real estate broker, a banker and a lawyer. The broker's wife, he says, was responsible for the business, but was realizing she didn't have time for it.

Enter Sarkis.

Born in Australia to Lebanese parents, he has lived in the Boston area for 19 years.

His menu is just as cosmopolitan, mixing French pastries and Middle Eastern foods with the all-American cup of joe.

As for finding employees, Sarkis also added his own twist.

He forewent the traditional "Help Wanted" sign in favor of a more personal search for employees, conducted through word of mouth.

The result was a hand-picked batch of family and friends who take a personal stake in C'est Bon. It is this aspect, Sarkis says, that makes the restaurant so successful.

All in the Family

Sarkis' staff is composed of, for the most part, "people I've known for years and years and years," he says.

Because of this, he says, "Our service is some of the best in the area."

The personal investment of employees in the business is apparent.

As a rule, Sarkis' staff greets customers promptly with courtesy and friendliness, offering more than just a product and a price.