LOS ANGELES, CA – Immigrants come to Los Angeles for many reasons. Amara Barroeta's first reason to come to the U.S. was to seek refuge, but now, she enjoys bringing people together at her cafe in Old Town Pasadena.
- Amara Barroeta came to LA to share her Venezuelan culture
- She uses imported ingredients from Venezuela
- Her coffee is served South American style with bold roasts
Amara Cafe's renowned chocolate fondue uses imported ingredients from Venezuela. While the instability in Venezuela makes importing such goods more troublesome, Barroeta says that doesn't stop the restaurant from keeping its focus on showcasing the beauty of the culture to its customers.
"The Venezuelan community is small but still there is that process of educating people about Venezuela and what better way than doing it through food and coffee," said Barroeta.
In addition to the chocolate, the coffee at Amara Cafe is served South American style, with bold and dark roasts that provide a less acidic, and more rounded texture.
Barroeta's journey from Venezuela to Los Angeles was not easy. She and her husband had to escape severe political turmoil before they settled in California.
"My husband and I went over a series of events including him being kidnapped and myself being robbed twice, at gun point, at day light. It was really tough," Barroeta said.
Now that they’re here, Barroeta doesn’t take a moment for granted. She loves connecting with her customers, and sharing a taste of her distinct heritage.
"Seeing their faces of surprise, I think it’s priceless. Many people have as a reference Mexican food or Central American food which is delicious, but, it’s so different from Venezuelan and Caribbean food, and so, they’re impressed," said Barroeta.
While the coffee gives her customers loads of energy, Barroeta says the community is what keeps both her culture and her cafe, continuously thriving.
"The people feel there is a sense of community here and so I think that’s really important. When you get to Amara’s, it’s a tiny little space and you got to sit next to someone, and that person you know, is going to watch your food and you’re going to talk to each other. So that’s something that makes it special I think. It’s like, you can’t be shy at Amara’s," said Barroeta.
And even if you are, Barroeta won’t be shy with you.