What brought you to Gainesville and to the restaurant business?
What brought me to Gainesville was when my family moved here in 1989 from Athens, Ga, in search to find a new location to open a Mexican restaurant. When my father arrived in Gainesville, he noticed it was a nice small college town, and thought it would be a great place to raise a family.
What have been the greatest challenges and successes?
One of the greatest challenges that we have ever endured was when COVID hit. We didn’t know what to do. The world was in fear, and in devastation as we had never encountered a pandemic. We then had to focus our determination in providing solutions to run a safe environment for our business, and to do our best to not let go of any of our staff. We closed for 3 days which gave us time to strategize a “safe plan” so we could work and not let anyone down in our community. Not only did we serve tacos, burritos, fajitas, and margaritas, but also found ourselves giving away home essentials; such as toilet paper, sanitizer, paper towels, and even meat and produce for people who were in need. It was tough times, but with the Grace of God, we were able to overcome it.
How do you balance work life and family life?
I try my best to get evenings, or weekends off. Most importantly Sunday because it’s always been a tradition for us as a family day as well. The day of rest. I make it a rule now to put my phone on “Do not disturb” when it’s true family time. I admit it’s very hard, yet well worth it. I’ve always been taught, family comes first. Life is too precious and flies by so quick. It’s good to never forget one of the true purposes of what helps you get up in the morning and who you do it for.
Do you have any favorite dishes?
A few favorite dishes of mine are the Empanadas, Chile Rellenos, Chile con Carne, Seafood Burrito, Carne Asada, oh and definitely the Birra Tacos & Tacos el Pastor on Taco Tuesday. YUM!!!
Do you have a mentor?
My mother is the most beautiful person I know. She has been such an inspiration and mentor throughout my whole life. She’s not only an amazing mother, but has always dedicated her life to helping others. I’ve witnessed how she truly has shed her blood, sweat, and tears just to sacrifice for her family and for other families too. From teaching techniques of her famous secret recipes, to always having the courage in never giving up. Most importantly is how incredibly she has always kept a strong faith, no matter what obstacles she has faced throughout her life. With such grace she has always taught our family to love thy neighbor, never judge, to always have compassion, give your 110% in everything you want to accomplish, always keep family as a priority, always be there for each other, and to always put God first. She would always say “God, Family, Tacos”. Just kidding. God, Family, and Love.
Favorite quote.
Be humble, thinking of others before yourself. Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. (Philippians 2:3-5)