The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Coquito’s temporarily closes for re-evaluation
Coquito’s Deli & Bakery, 4310A N. Leavitt Road in Lorain, announced May 11 on its Facebook page that the Caribbean cuisine establishment will close to the public to reevaluate business operations.
Owner Sergio Morales said he decided to close the business due to a lack of professional staff he had employed.
Morales plans to reopen Coquito’s by May 25. It opened in mid-February.
Morales said the deli and bakery was closed throughout Mother’s Day weekend because there was a shortage of staff on some days.
Coquito’s will remain closed throughout the rest of the week to rehire new employees and change some of the operations, he said.
Morales said he is working alongside a new business partner who has restaurant experience to make improvements.
He said he is rehiring staff who can execute good customer service to encourage customers to come back for more.
Coquito’s is looking for people who can fit into the deli and bakery’s family-oriented atmosphere, Morales said.
Some staff members learned the ropes of Coquito’s and have performed well, he said.
“Your heart has to be into it to be successful,” Morales said. “You know, we just want to regroup. I have a much better feeling about (this process).”
Several customers commented on the May 11 announcement, wishing Coquito’s luck, giving advice on what could be fixed and wondering when they can come visit again.
Morales heavily emphasizes the Caribbean dishes and treats at Coquito’s are made fresh with a taste not many in the community can get.
He said providing a welcoming service and fresh Caribbean cuisines to the community was his
“You know, we just want to regroup. I have a much better feeling about (this process).”
— Owner Sergio Morales
goal.
Morales said some customers were thrilled to be in Coquito’s atmosphere to experience the flavor and quality of what they offer. Coquito’s was offering fresh and authentic products that many can’t find in some places, he said.
However, there are always going to be ups and downs, Morales said. Customers have had concerns on pricing and order times, he said.
The cost of some items may be higher than some were expecting, Morales said, because the items on the menu are of a higher quality.
Meal portions also are larger, so, customers are getting their money’s worth, Morales said.
Morales said some people may have the wrong idea that their meals are ready and waiting for customers, but the staff prepares the food when meals are ordered.
“I want people to understand, we are not fast food,” he said. “This is a deli and bakery, but also a restaurant.”
Morales said he wants customers to understand that quality is what he wants to provide.
He said he and his new business partner are brainstorming ways to improve issues and provide better quality and service while still holding onto flavor.
Morales said customers will be aware when he opens because he plans to make it big.
“We are coming back,” he said. “We just need a week to come together (because) we put a lot of effort into this just to quit.
“We want to provide better quality and better service. When we improve, we can move forward.”