Whenever I mention that I own a restaurant to someone I’ve never met before, they almost always get a dreamy look in their eyes. “Oh, I’ve always wanted to own my own restaurant!” They’ll say, with a knowing smile. “It must be so fun!” Well, I guess fun is all relative. Restauranting is more of a calling rather than a job. And even those who think they are called to it, are often times completely unprepared for the amount of work and stress that comes with being a restaurant owner. Of course, there are a great many benefits to being your own boss, including the free food.