“Why dishwasher? Because I didn’t speak English,” he said.
While teaching himself English, he was also learning every aspect of the restaurant business.
“I went through all the jobs, from dishwasher to manager,” Barrera said.
Prior to opening Latin Deli in Lakewood in 2012, he remembers feeling panicked.
Barrera said if given the chance to talk to himself 10 years ago, he would say, “Don’t be afraid.”
He chose to create the deli because whenever he traveled around America, he saw all types of delis but never a Latin one.
“I have sandwiches from Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, Columbia—it’s like a fusion,” Barrera said. “I played with the flavors from those countries and created my own concept.”
In addition to the sandwiches, he also offers Latin crepes, which feature ingredients such as tomatillo sauce and chorizo. For those looking for something sweet, he has banana strawberry crepes and more.
“A crepe is like an enchilada, [but] instead of a tortilla, I use a crepe,” he said.
Barrera said he enjoys getting to know his customers and even played matchmaker for two of his regulars. When they were finally in the restaurant at the same time, he pointed out the lady to the man and said he should go talk to her. Barrera brought a mocha latte to the woman and told her the man sent it to her.
“They are married now and have a little kid,” Barrera said. “They come in now and say, ‘We love you, Fernando!’”
