TUCSON, Ariz. -- Many local restaurants have seen a drop in sales amid the pandemic, but some owners are choosing to make the best out of the situation in hopes of rebounding.
Boca Tacos Y Tequila on 4th Avenue is usually packed with a line of people waiting to order, out the door.
While today it’s take-out only, the owner says there's a silver lining.
Owner and Executive Chef Maria Mazon finally has time to give Boca a face-lift in hopes of drawing in more customers once business gets going again.
“It’s going to be like fine dining with a taco price,” said Mazon.
She is whipping up a new look, and new dishes for customers to enjoy, once dine-in services reopen.
“I’m excited because we’re going to switch gears when we come back May 12th hopefully,” she told KGUN9.
Mazon has been the owner of Boca Tacos Y Tequila for the last decade, and says it’s time for a refresh.
“We’ve been a counter service for literally 10 years and we’re going to be switching gears to a full service restaurant. And we’re going to have a hostess and it’s going to be the same atmosphere, but instead of you waiting for us, we will wait for you,” she said.
Mazon says this will help them serve more people, and eventually be able to hire back a full staff.
“It’s very easy to throw money to the problem as a big corporation, but when you’re tiny like me, it’s harder,” said Mazon.
The reality is, she’s still hurting amid the shift to curbside-pickup.
“The owner of me is freaking out because I still have staff to make paychecks, and a family to feed and a mortgage to pay,” she told KGUN9.
Though she says the community has been a huge help during these tough economic times, and hopes both the SBA Relief Loan she applied for and the updates will help her bounce back stronger than ever.
“We’re going to incorporate like taco of the month or special of the week. Weekend specials. I’m just desperate to use my plates and real silverware, you know give the planet a break with all the to-go containers. I am literally ready. I hope people like the new spin we’re going to give to Boca and hopefully see you May 13th,” she added.
Mazon tells KGUN9 money from the SBA Relief Loan should be coming in soon and says, with the extra cash and the community's support, they’ll rebound in no time.