Lifestyle continues to reach out to businesspeople all over South Florida to ask questions about the impact COVID-19 has had on their businesses—and what the future holds. Today, we check in with Rocco Mangel, owner of Rocco’s Tacos.
Business background: With locations in Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar is known for authentic Mexican dining, music and happy hours, guacamole prepared tableside, and of course, Taco & Tequila Tuesday. Iwner Rocco Mangel offers diners 300 varieties of tequila to combine with his famous homemade margarita sour mix.
The impact: “The beginning of the pandemic really took a toll—not only on our restaurant locations, but the industry as a whole. We had to make the tough decision to furlough employees, which was one of the hardest choices. Now, business is at a steady pace as we have implemented extreme safety measures and new promotions. The local community has been a huge part of our success and we are very grateful.
“During this time, I’ve seen how much the restaurant industry really bands together. We are all struggling with the same challenges and have been there for one another. I’m proud to say the restaurant industry has all supported one another at this time. I’m in constant contact with our industry leaders and we have created such a supportive environment as we navigate through all of these new changes in our industry. I have also been very supported by organizations such as Downtown Delray, where we are involved with a ‘Distance Dining in the Park’ initiative currently taking place with a roster of great restaurants in Delray.”
Elevating takeout: “At Rocco’s Tacos, we have reinvented our to-go offerings in many exciting ways. My personal favorite has been our Taco Box, where you create your tacos at home. Also, how could you go wrong with our new Rocco’s Tacos 1 Liter To-Go Margaritas?”
COVID-insights: “I’ve always said our team is the core of our business, and without them we wouldn’t be where we are today. I appreciate our team more than ever. They have been able to adapt to the changes we have had to make during these times. No matter what Rocco’s Tacos location you visit, you will feel that same vibrant experience from our staff, who are eager and happy to serve.”
