Today we’d like to introduce you to Hector Casanova.
Hector, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Casanova Fish Tacos was born in March of 2009 after I was laid off from my job. The idea was introduced by my friends as prior to my layoff, we were having gatherings in my backyard during football season. It all started as a competition amongst us and developing recipes… and after a few weekends of trial and error, my secret batter was born. After my lay off I visited the idea to make ends meet… There was no passion, no history of family restaurant, no cooking education… just trying to keep up with my bills. I was given the opportunity at Little League opening day in Lemon Grove, and from there, I had no idea what was in store for me. I hustled to get catering gigs, any type of promotional opportunity to get my business some exposure. As gigs started to come in then my customers started recommending me as no one had the concept I was introducing.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No smooth road at all!!! It has been a learning experience since day one. My field of study was in Law Enforcement as I graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelors in Administration of Justice. The struggles were that no one wanted to give me an opportunity to come and showcase what I did. I wanted to be known for fish tacos, and that was my idea from the day I decided to start this business. Farmers’ markets, especially the busy ones, said no to me, in a nutshell. A lot of doors were closed without tasting my product. That did not deter me from continuing my business vision. The little money I made was invested back into acquiring equipment, and use the rest to stay alive and get caught up with my bills.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Casanova Fish Tacos is a catering company specializing in the Baja Experience. My specialty are fish tacos… from your traditional baja to the most unique takes you can imagine. I have done TV segments, competitions, food and wine festivals, and celebrity events, and when people see Casanova fish tacos, they somehow heard about it or have experienced my food before. I am known for creating specialty combinations with traditional dishes from other parts of the world and add the fish as a twist. For example, I make a grilled sweet ginger fish taco that is insane! I came with this idea after attending a bridal show. It took a while to make it 100% and another while to have friends and customers taste it and give me their feedback. I do not add any new taco to my menu right away… I first introduce it to my focus group and then get feedback then it goes to my customers for final touches. I am most proud of my accomplishments… I never give up… although I saw it very close. What I mean by this is that I was very close to shutdown and close shop. I was not ready to let go, so I had to step back and reinvent and re-focus on what I was doing. Luckily, it worked for me, and we are still here 14 years later. I am most proud of my trajectory, my awards, the support I have received over the years. What sets me apart is that I don’t do the traditional menu items… I focus on fish although I do offer a variety of gourmet taco options for everyone to enjoy. My setup presentation and service also sets me apart, and when you take a bite at one of my tacos… well, that completes the experience.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality or characteristic that I feel is most important to my success is… always deliver what you promise and never say no you can’t do it. I love taking care of my customers and making them look good at their events. So far, my approach has worked, and I don’t think I will change it anytime soon.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.casanovafishtacos.com
- Instagram: casanovafishtacos
- Facebook: casanova fish tacos
- Twitter: kznvafishtacos
- Yelp: Casanova fish tacos
