Alcocer came to the United States nearly 30 years ago and began working as a chef. He dreamed of opening his own restaurant but also wanted the ability to stay in the kitchen and create his own dishes.
“I still enjoy what I do,” Alcocer said. “I still wake up every day and the first thing I think about is my restaurant.”
Not only is the restaurant a dream come true for Alcocer and his wife, Aracely, the manager and CEO of Fuego Latino, but it has also benefited their children’s growth. Their two sons—who have autism—both work at the restaurant and have been able to develop their social skills and confidence, while their daughter has outgrown her shyness, Aracely said.
“Our three teenagers are a huge part of our success,” Aracely said. “Meeting people all day has turned them to very confident young [people].”
Alcocer created the Fuego Latino menu by bringing in different tastes from all over Latin America and making food that is out of the norm but still comfortable for patrons to enjoy. With his menu, Alcocer hopes to show the melting pot of Latino culture.
“I wanted to make sure that when people come in they experience something new,” Alcocer said. “That’s not going to be the normal thing that you’re going to get in another restaurant.”
Even though Alcocer said he enjoys every dish on the menu, he hopes to update it in the near future but is waiting for the pandemic to wane since he would then have to adjust his prices across the menu.
In August, Fuego Latino celebrated its four-year anniversary.
“We are looking forward to continue to learn more of what Georgetown loves and add to our menu,’’ Aracely said. “[Alcocer] is always looking for beautiful presentations that are unique yet traditional and, of course, delicious.”
FUN FACT
Jorge and Aracely Alcocer were featured on Food Network alongside celebrity chef Guy Fieri in the show “Guy’s Grocery Games” in February 2019.
Fuego Latino Gastropub
708 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown
512-688-2401
www.fuegolatinogastropub.com
Hours: Tue.-Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed Mon.
