Latin Times Magazine Volume 14 No 2 | Page 23

Cuban Sandwich Festival Highlights 2015 Cuban Sandwich Festival Highlights Sergio’s Restaurant Winner of BEST Cuban Sandwich in Miami & South Florida CEO Carlos Gazitua Latin Times Magazine: Tell us about how and why Sergio's got started? Sergio’s: Sergio’s started off in 1975 as a family-owned sandwich shop in Westchester, FL. There was little development in that area, so my family wanted to open a place where local Cuban immigrants could walk in and enjoy authentic Cuban food. We chose the name ‘Sergio’s’ because it was easy to remember. Quickly, we became the local spot to eat because of our delicious steak sandwiches and Fritas. Our menu had fresh, homemade food that was made fast – but didn’t taste like fast food. When Cubans came to Miami during the Castro regime, many couldn’t bring anything with them except their memories – including recipes, which my family truly valued. They were a treasure we wanted to share with the community, and our food eventually became local staples. No restaurant in the area could compete. Today, we have a great following and are expanding the franchise nationally. Latin Times Magazine: Tell us about your Sergio's Team. Sergio’s: Q