Here in Blair, Nebraska, local restaurants El Vallarta and new addition Dulce Vida have become staples in this small town. Though they’ve expanded to even more locations, they stay firm in the hearts of people all around Blair. The Mexican restaurants are loved and favored by everyone who walks through the doors. But what some people don’t know is that these restaurants are a family-owned business by Blair residents, the Mata Family.
Roberto and Betsy Mata opened the doors of El Vallarta to the public for the first time in 2012. They had a vision and carried it with them to Blair.
“I always wanted to start my own business,” said Betsy Mata, “I grew up in business, so it was always a goal of mine.”
Betsy Mata had a dream, and she, nor her husband, let anyone get in the way of that. Both grew up around business, and neither wanted anyone to tell them what to do or where to go.
Of course, being the owners of multiple successful businesses isn’t easy. The line between work life and personal life can become blurred when it surrounds you.
“As a business owner, expansion is the goal,” said Roberto Mata, “It was easier when we just had a couple businesses, but as you expand more that’s where you have to bring in people you trust.”
A trustworthy staff is essential to a business. Luckily, the Mata’s were able to find employees that they can rely on.
“We have been blessed with a great staff that we can trust,” said Roberto Mata, “They have our best interest in mind, because at the end of the day, if they do well, we do well.”
When opening a business, things are going to change.
“You have to take into account what your new normal will look like and make sure you can handle it,” said Betsy Mata.
The Mata’s enjoy building their brand and providing excellent food and service to their customers in every location. However, a big drawback is the fact that they can’t be in 10 places at once, so they can’t always be in control of what’s going on, but that’s where the trustworthy staff comes into play.
Success isn’t always handed to you, it’s something you have to work hard to achieve. The Mata’s dedication to these restaurants has given them everything they could’ve wanted and more. They are truly grateful for their taste of success.
