How long have you owned the Smyrna location?
My brother, Jose, opened the Smyrna restaurant in 2001. We took over in 2005.
What do you think makes Los Bravos different from other Mexican restaurants?
We offer authentic Mexican food in a family-oriented environment. We try very hard to make Los Bravos part of the neighborhood where families feel comfortable.
What would you recommend someone order? What are your specialities?
We are most known for our carnitas, fajitas and margaritas. Our most popular dishes are Carne Asada, Chicken Soup, any of our Fajitas and Tacos Carne Asada.
Where is your family from?
Guadalajara, Mexico
When did you come to America?
I moved here in 1983 and worked in many different jobs before Los Bravos started. I was in construction, landscaping and worked in other restaurants.
Do you and Iris have any children?
Yes, we have five children and one grandson. They all live nearby which is nice.
Do any of them work at Los Bravos?
One of our daughters works at the restaurant, another is a nurse and the other works in a nutrition store. We have a son at college in North Georgia and my other son is at Wheeler High School in Marietta.
What do you like to do when you aren't at Los Bravos?
Last year, Iris and I bought a 70 acre farm in Cordele, Georgia. We have been working on turning it into an organic farm with vegetables, chickens, cows and more. We are very interested in offering people healthier options, especially meat.
Why did you decide to buy a farm?
Iris' family owned a farm in Cuba so she grew up on a farm and we both enjoy it.
What do you have on the farm right now? What are you growing?
We have just started farming the land and last year we were able to grow corn, squash and some beans. We had some trouble with rabbits and deer so we didn't harvest a lot. We also have chickens, horses, ducks, geese, peacocks and turkeys.
How often are you able to get to the farm?
We try to go every weekend. Our neighbor takes care of it when we are not there. My youngest son and my grandson love to come and help.
Do you use any of the produce at Los Bravos?
No, we are not ready to do that yet. At some point, we will sell our produce and meats locally.
How will you manage the farm and the restaurant?
Our plan is to sell the restaurant and live on the farm full-time in about five to ten years. Of course, we would have to find the right buyer for Los Bravos before we make the move.
If you haven't eaten at Los Bravos yet, make sure you give it a try next time you are taking the family out to dinner. The food is great, the services is outstanding and you are sure to run into some Nickajack families!
