Today we’d like to introduce you to Esteban Azofeifa.
Hi Esteban, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I worked in a kitchen at a young age and fell in love with cooking. In 2012, I moved to Jacksonville and decided to pursue my passion as a chef. Fast forward to 2020 a year of many challenges, I got furloughed from my job the moment and figured with all the time I had I’d start a business.
In April 2020, El Cubano Jax emerged selling Cuban sandwiches off a hotdog cart at different bars/breweries. The name started to get out there people were now hooked on what’s been said is “The best Cuban sandwich in Jacksonville FL!” With many setbacks and challenges, I kept pushing and now have opened Brick and Mortar inside of Lemonstreet Brewing Company in the Railroad District on the riverside (2100 Dennis, St.)
It’s been a dream come true to have the support of the city is huge! I have a lot of friends/family I owe thanks to for all the support and help to get me the recognition I have today!
“Never Give Up On Your Dreams” – Chef Esteban.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s definitely been far from smooth! From food shortages, inflation, lack of resources during a pandemic, and one of the most troublesome… staff shortages! But I don’t give up and I keep pushing for what needs to get done daily.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Chef, one of passion and dedication. I love feeding folks and seeing that reaction of how good the food is, that’s what does it for me.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Although times have been hard everything is still possible, set goals make an effort don’t let anything stop you. Don’t get discouraged! Push yourself! Never give up!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @elcubanojax
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elcubano.jax.5
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/oMQVn9Kacpb
Image Credits
Keoni Seal, Kevin Lind, and Ambyr Mann
