Restaurant Owners Offer Thanks to Community

The enchiladas were steaming and music blared from the jukebox. A jovial crowd packed the small brown booths. But this was no ordinary dinner crowd at Jasmin Restaurant in Boyle Heights.

The small Mexican eatery, run by a group of women who live in Eastside housing projects, hosted a celebration to thank the community for its support.

More than 50 people dined on rice and beans, enchiladas and cake to commemorate the restaurant’s successful first few months.

“It was important for people to know that we thank them for helping us,” said Rosa Gonzalez, one of the women who runs the restaurant. “We also want their suggestions for how we can do things better.”

Since these women pooled their resources and recipes in August, the restaurant at 1st and Boyle streets has become a popular spot.

The group hopes to make enough money to open more restaurants and a day-care center for single mothers.