Las Hefas restaurant brings genuine Latin flavors, native allure to Hays

BY TONY GUERRERO
Hays Publish

Uncover the guts and soul of Latin flavors as Las Hefas Latin Delicacies welcomes downtown Hays by way of its doorways.

Israel Luna, basic supervisor of Las Hefas, was born in Mexico and relocated to Kansas on the age of 13 in 2003.

Luna has been concerned within the restaurant business since his highschool years, beginning with a place at McDonald’s. He devoted roughly 4 years to working at Jaliscos earlier than working at Gella’s Diner and LB Brewing for 10 years.

Even whereas pursuing research in political science and dealing within the faculty district, Luna persistently held positions in eating places, valuing the extra expertise and connections he constructed through the years.

“There have been numerous hurdles we needed to leap by way of for this, and I knew that the relationships I made right here on the town had been going to make it simpler,” Luna mentioned. “I’ve met so many individuals that I do know if we had a restaurant, they might no less than give it a try to come to assist it.”

Attending Fort Hays State College, Luna mentioned probably the most vital lesson he discovered was networking, referring to it as his secondary job.

“I at all times made certain individuals had a great expertise and so they knew who I used to be. I made numerous connections that I hope will give us a bit of edge as soon as we open our doorways right here.” Luna mentioned, describing his work ethic throughout his time at Gella’s.

Las Hefas Latin Delicacies, 224 W. eleventh St., is predicted to be open in early to mid-November.

Luna hopes to face out within the Hays neighborhood along with his crisp substances and conventional model of cooking.

“We’re taking a extra homestyle strategy to cooking Mexican meals with my mother’s recipes. I believe what eating places right here on the town lack is the authenticity of what Mexican meals is,” he mentioned.

To make sure their freshness, sure dishes akin to tamales, pasola and birria can be solely out there on weekends. Moreover, weekend specials will showcase various programs originating from areas past Mexico.

“The identify of our restaurant is Las Hafas Latin Delicacies as a result of we’re additionally incorporating different dishes from Latin America. We’ll have a few dishes from Central America and a few dishes from South America,” Luna mentioned.

Luna highlights that the tortillas provided at Las Hefas ought to be the primary selection for purchasers to expertise.

“I believe as soon as individuals attempt these recent tortillas, it’s going to virtually elevate their normal of what they’re in search of,” he mentioned.

Different menu objects that Las Heffas will supply are enchiladas, pupusas, fajitas and sopes.

Luna famous that in his time at FHSU, many college students expressed an curiosity in pursuing alternatives in jap Kansas. Nonetheless, personally, he by no means entertained the identical concept.

“I believe numerous instances rural communities in western Kansas are very affected when persons are not keen to start out small companies there,” Luna mentioned. “I am glad to be right here and be capable of create a great product for the individuals of Hays, and hopefully they’re keen to present us an opportunity.”

Luna acknowledges constructing proprietor Marvin Rack, Matt Grezeszak from Previous Glory Rehab and Restoration, Edgar Gonzoles in addition to numerous relations.

“The explanation why we name it Las Hefas is due to my mother, my sister and my spouse. They’re the people who have made me into the particular person I’m now. By means of good and dangerous experiences, these three women are the muse of who I’m,” he mentioned.

Luna particularly credit his mom, who will play a distinguished position within the kitchen space for establishing his restaurant.

“Rising up, she was my essential position mannequin. I imply, the respect I’ve for her is all the things,” Luna mentioned.

Inside Latin American tradition, youngsters rising up typically discuss with their moms as “La Jefa,” a time period that interprets to “the boss.”

Las Hefas can be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays by way of Thursdays and Sundays, and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

You’ll be able to observe Las Hefas Latin Delicacies on Fb.