LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — A Las Vegas restaurant inspired by a popular Latin American TV show is drawing customers from across the valley, but the story of how the owners built their business from a swap meet stand reveals a journey of determination and cultural pride.
La Vecindad restaurant takes its inspiration from “El Chavo del Ocho,” a beloved television show that remains popular throughout Latin America. Before becoming the themed restaurant that draws customers from across town, owners started by working long hours at local swap meets.
From swap meet to restaurant success
Owner Vanessa Barreat said the business began with weekend stands at swap meets, where conditions were often challenging.
“It was really hard, when on summers, I was like crying with the heat and winter, it was too cold,” Barreat said.
The swap meet stand gained momentum as customers asked them to open during weekdays. The owners decided to take the chance and expand their operation.
Securing the La Vecindad brand
Barreat said the owners were able to legally secure the name La Vecindad in the United States by registering it as their brand, essentially acquiring the rights to use the iconic name from the TV show.
“We all grew up with the Chavo,” Barreat said. “it’s a culture, it doesn’t just belong to just Mexico, I think it’s for all the Latinos, all over the world, because Brazil, they love the Chavo del Ocho, so I think it’s over the world.”
Building an immersive experience
The restaurant has become what Barreat describes as a love letter to the TV show, with decorations and memorabilia contributed by customers who feel connected to the cultural experience.
“Every single thing that you see, most of them are from our customers, they brought them to us because they feel proud that we have part of something from their family here in La Vecindad,” Barreat said.
The transformation required long nights of painting, decorating and designing to create the immersive “Chavo del Ocho” experience, but Barreat said the hard work was worth it.
“It was hard, it was really hard, but I’m that type of Latina that I don’t give up. I will make it happen, and that’s where we are right now,” she said.
Future expansion plans
The owners said their goal is to franchise the concept and open more locations across the United States. They hope sharing their story will inspire other Latino entrepreneurs to start their own businesses.
“As a Latino, we have to, you know, show everyone that we’re good, we’re good people working and building something for our family,” Barreat said.
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