Celebrating 20 Years of Success: Sombrero's Restaurant

In this article, we'll dive into the journey of Sombrero's Restaurant, its unique offerings, and its deep connection with the Fond du Lac community.

A Journey of Passion and Family

Elizabeth shares that the journey of Sombrero's Restaurant began about 24 years ago when she was working at another Mexican restaurant that is no longer in operation. After working there for four years, her parents presented her with the opportunity to open her restaurant. Initially unsure about leaping, Elizabeth eventually embraced the challenge and opened Sombrero's Restaurant. It has been an incredible journey for her and her family. Over the past 20 years, Sombrero's Restaurant has become a beloved establishment in the Fond du Lac community. As a small, family-owned business, they pride themselves on the personal touch they bring to their customers' dining experience. Elizabeth mentions that what sets them apart from other restaurants is the strong bond they have formed with their patrons. They have been invited to weddings, graduation parties, baby showers, and even surprise birthday parties. The restaurant has become a gathering place for celebrations and special moments in their customers' lives.

Expanding the Menu: The Colony Supper Club

To keep things fresh and exciting, Sombrero's Restaurant introduced a new addition to their menu called the Colony Supper Club. This family recipe from the 1970s and 80s has been brought back to life, offering customers a taste of nostalgia. In addition to their delicious Mexican cuisine, customers can now enjoy the Colony Supper Club fish fry. This addition has been a hit for the past eight years, showcasing the restaurant's versatility and commitment to providing a diverse range of options for their customers.

Accommodating Dietary Preferences

One of the standout features of Sombrero's Restaurant is their willingness to accommodate dietary preferences. Elizabeth emphasizes that almost anything on the menu can be made vegetarian by simply removing the meat. This level of flexibility ensures that all customers can find something to enjoy, regardless of their dietary restrictions.

A Family Affair

Sombrero's Restaurant is not just a business for Elizabeth and her family; it's a way of life. Elizabeth's sister has been a stylist in the same location for almost 30 years, and her children also play a role in the restaurant's operations. Her daughter, Michaela, has been working alongside her since she was young, becoming Elizabeth's right-hand person. Even her other daughter, Mariah, helps out on special occasions. Elizabeth's two younger sons also lend a hand, with the older one assisting regularly and the younger one occasionally hiding. The restaurant truly embodies the spirit of a family business, with each member contributing their unique skills and dedication to its success.

The Fond du Lac Community: A Loyal Support System

Throughout their 20 years in business, Sombrero's Restaurant has witnessed the changing landscape of Fond du Lac. However, one thing that has remained constant is the loyalty and support of their customers. Elizabeth expresses her gratitude for the loyal patrons who have been with them from the beginning and continue to support them today. She mentions that she has developed personal connections with many of her customers, remembering their favorite drinks, booths, and orders. This level of familiarity and connection is what makes Sombrero's Restaurant a special place for both the staff and the customers.

Giving Back to the Community

Sombrero's Restaurant has a history of giving back to the community, although recent economic challenges and workforce limitations have made it more difficult to do so. Elizabeth explains that they have had to prioritize their resources and ensure that their employees are not stretched too thin. However, in the past, they have organized events and initiatives to support the community. Despite the current limitations, Sombrero's Restaurant remains a pillar of the Fond du Lac community, providing a welcoming space for gatherings and celebrations.

Recognizing and Valuing Long-Term Employees

Elizabeth takes pride in the longevity of her employees, particularly her daughter, Michaela, and her husband, who have been with the restaurant for a significant period of time. She mentions that her husband has developed a remarkable ability to recognize customers and remember their orders, even if he doesn't personally know them. This level of familiarity and attention to detail creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for customers, making them feel like part of the Sombrero's Restaurant family.

Reflecting on 20 Years of Success

As Sombrero's Restaurant approaches its 20th anniversary, Elizabeth reflects on the incredible milestone they have achieved. She acknowledges that not many businesses can say they have been in operation for 20 years, especially considering the challenges faced by businesses in recent years. Elizabeth credits the support of her loyal customers and the backing of her family for the restaurant's longevity. To show their appreciation, Sombrero's Restaurant will be offering a special promotion on their anniversary date, October 28th. Customers will receive a generous 20% off their total bill as a token of gratitude for their continued support.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future

As Sombrero's Restaurant celebrates their 20th anniversary, they look forward to the future with optimism and excitement. Elizabeth acknowledges that Fond du Lac has evolved over the years, but she believes that the city still retains its charm and traditions. She encourages anyone considering a move to Fond du Lac to explore the hidden gems and unique offerings that the city has to offer. From the beautiful scenery to the diverse range of activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

In conclusion, Sombrero's Restaurant is a testament to the power of passion, family, and community. Elizabeth and her family have created a welcoming and inclusive space where customers can enjoy delicious food and create lasting memories. As they celebrate their 20th anniversary, they express their gratitude to their loyal customers and look forward to many more years of serving the Fond du Lac community.