Latin Flavors at a Long Branch Restaurant (PHOTOS & VIDEO)
In El Golfo’s kitchen, there is fresh guacamole, sizzling carne asada and crisp fried tortilla chips.
The restaurant, located in Long Branch, is the home of Latin and Caribbean food that its El Salvadorean owner said provides a mix of unique flavors.
“We felt that just having El Salvadorian food would not be as successful as combining all the Latin American dishes in our menu,” said Ada Villatoro, El Golfo owner.
This small family business opened in 2000 and employs 13 people. Villatoro said she came on board in 2004. Her brother was the former owner but decided to sell the whole business in 2005.
Villatoro said the restaurant was doing well until 2008 when the economy collapsed.
“We struggled. It was the biggest challenge for us,” Villatoro said.
She then decided to change the business format. Villatoro invited local artists to perform live music and get some of their followers to visit the El Golfo.
Villatoro also opened her restaurant for jazz, folk, Latin musicians and more. There is also karaoke nights on Mondays.
Villatoro is also giving back to her community. On June 25, the restaurant hosted a fundraising event to support Montgomery County’s Sister City program.
“Sister City called us. They wanted to do a fundraising event. I was ecstatic. They are helping my country and we ended up doing a successful event,” Villatoro said.
Whether it is carne asada, spinach ensaladas, ceviche, or masitas de puerco, Villatoro said there is something for everyone.
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