Restaurateur thanked community with barbecue
With a restaurant on a quiet street in Chambersburg, Miguel Rodriguez knew that he might need acts of diplomacy for residents to give their blessing to his business venture.
Rodriguez opened Casa Blanca Restaurant almost two years ago and he acknowledged his anniversary recently with a barbecue that welcomed all neighborhood families.
“When we opened our restaurant we knew that a main goal would be to win over the neighborhood. And I think that we have accomplished that. Business is great,” Rodriguez said with former Trenton Councilman Manny Segura acting as interpreter.
“So this party is a way to give back to our neighbors who have welcomed us. We’ve had almost no problems, no complaints. No need for the police to visit. We try to comply with residents’ wishes. If there is a problem our neighbors should know that we will take care of the issue right away.
Casa Blanca Restaurant replaced John Henry’s, one of many popular restaurants that either closed or moved out of Trenton when the neighborhood flipped from mostly Italian residents to one now predominantly Latino. The Restaurant serves standard American fare and Spanish dishes.
The restaurant is located on Mifflin St. between Franklin and Washington streets. Open seven days a week, the business operates a small parking lot for patrons.
“I just want to thank people for their support. It’s just burgers, hot dogs and a playground but it’s our way to show gratitude for the community and people who support our restaurant,” Rodriguez said.