Today we’d like to introduce you to Romina Alvarez.
Hi Romina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey has never been a straight line — it has been built through courage, resilience, and a lot of heart.
I was born and raised in Argentina, in a family where hard work and entrepreneurship were always part of everyday life. From a very young age, I learned that building something of your own means dedication, sacrifice, and believing in yourself even when the path is uncertain.
Years later, my family and I made the life-changing decision to move to the United States. Starting over in a new country came with challenges I could never have fully imagined — a new language, a new culture, and the responsibility of creating stability for my family from the ground up. But it also came with opportunity.
That is how DAMMIANO’S Café & Bistró was born. What started as a simple idea — creating a warm, welcoming space where people could enjoy quality coffee, honest food, and genuine human connection — slowly became a reality. Together with my mother, who is my partner and co-founder, we built this business with our own hands, long days, and an immense amount of love. Every detail reflects our story: our roots, our culture, and our belief that food brings people together.
Today, DAMMIANO’S is more than a café. It’s a family-run business, a meeting point for the community, and a symbol of what’s possible when you don’t give up — even when things get difficult. I continue to grow, learn, and evolve every day, both as an entrepreneur and as a person, guided by the same values that started it all: authenticity, perseverance, and heart.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road.
Building a business as an immigrant comes with challenges that go far beyond entrepreneurship itself. From navigating a new system, regulations, and paperwork, to overcoming language barriers and cultural differences, every step required extra effort and constant learning.
One of the biggest challenges was starting from zero — without an established network, without financial safety nets, and with the pressure of making the business work not only as a dream, but as a source of stability for my family. There were moments of uncertainty, long nights, and difficult decisions that tested both my resilience and my confidence.
Running a small, family-owned business also means wearing many hats at once: owner, manager, marketer, problem-solver, and sometimes even emotional support for the team. Balancing business responsibilities with family life, especially as a mother, added another layer of complexity.
However, every challenge became a lesson. Each obstacle forced me to grow, adapt, and trust my instincts. Those struggles didn’t slow me down — they shaped me. They are the reason I value perseverance, empathy, and authenticity so deeply today.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the co-founder and owner of DAMMIANO’S Café & Bistró, where I specialize in building authentic, experience-driven spaces that combine quality products with genuine human connection.
My work goes far beyond serving coffee and food. I am deeply involved in every aspect of the business — from concept development, menu creation, branding, and customer experience, to daily operations, team management, and community engagement. I focus on creating a place where people feel welcomed, seen, and comfortable, not just served.
I am known for my hands-on approach, attention to detail, and commitment to authenticity. As a family-owned business, every decision reflects care, intention, and values rather than trends. Our café blends our cultural roots with a modern, approachable atmosphere, which has helped us build a loyal community around the brand.
What I am most proud of is creating a business that represents resilience and heart. Building DAMMIANO’S as an immigrant woman and mother, alongside my family, while maintaining quality, warmth, and consistency, is my greatest achievement. What sets me apart is the personal investment I bring into everything I do — this is not just a business, it’s a reflection of who we are.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, my focus is on growth — both personal and professional — while staying true to the values that started this journey.
I plan to continue evolving DAMMIANO’S Café & Bistró by strengthening its presence in the community, refining the experience we offer, and exploring new opportunities that align with our identity and vision. Whether that means expanding offerings, collaborating with other local businesses, or developing new concepts, my priority is always quality and authenticity.
At the same time, I am looking forward to embracing new chapters as an entrepreneur and as a person. I believe growth doesn’t always mean getting bigger — sometimes it means getting clearer, more intentional, and more aligned with what truly matters.
No matter what the future brings, my goal is to keep creating meaningful projects, supporting my family, and building spaces that connect people through warmth, culture, and genuine experiences.
Pricing:
- Specialty coffee drinks generally range from $4 to $7
- Fresh pastries and baked goods typically range from $4 to $6
- Savory items such as empanadas and breakfast options range from $6 to $12
- We also offer seasonal specials and curated combos at accessible price points
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dammianoscafe.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dammianos.cafe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Bz13G1C1e/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Romina C Alvarez
