CityView Magazine - Fayetteville, NC
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1294342
50 | October 2020 "We were incredibly thrilled," the 30-year-old entrepreneur says about the early response to Fabe's. Business was good in January – and even better in February. en COVID-19 hit. March was tough, and in April, sales took a nose-dive. e restaurant went from roasting 250 to 300 chickens per day down to 150 to 200. (e chickens, by the way, cook at 325 degrees for exactly 1 hour and 45 minutes.) Like many restaurant owners, Fabian had to rethink, retrain, reconsider. e sanitizers, masks and plastic gloves came out in full force, of course. Select tables were closed off for social distancing. It also helped that the restaurant is designed with a separate entrance for takeout orders – and has a covered outdoor patio. Signs pointing to the restaurant were placed at strategic locations in and around Cliffdale Road near Skibo. "We even turned off lights to save electricity. We had to cut some hours, but didn't let anyone go," the determined owner says. "One of the things I'm most proud of is we didn't let anyone go." Among those who help keep the restaurant humming are Fabian's mom, Maria "Mama Mary" Guzman, and his cousin Rafael Llamas, who is general manager. A friendly vibe permeates the space that is decorated in industrial chic and with a large wall panel of photos, many depicting Fayetteville life – from the military presence to Segra Stadium to rapper J. Cole. Piped-in salsa music contributes to the happy vibe. Fabian also has expanded his menu. Daily specials are bringing in new customers and the faithfuls. Taco Tuesdays includes three chicken tacos in so tortillas, heavy on the cilantro, and quite possibly enough to share with a friend. Another enticing selection is Arroz Chauffa, a light, stir-fried rice with bits of rotisserie chicken, eggs, scallions and shredded carrots. A jerk chicken option and deep-fried chicken flautas also are growing in popularity. All are impeccably fresh. "I'm a very optimistic person," Fabian says. "We're going to keep fighting. It's been a heck of a roller coaster." Family Ties: Fabian Llamas is proud of his top-notch team which includes his mother, Maria "Mama Mary" Guzman, and his cousin Rafael Llamas.