'Little Habana Cafe' in Riverview overcoming obstacles, getting back to normalcy

An authentic Cuban cuisine in Riverview is making strides back to normalcy after overcoming many obstacles the past few years.

Co-owner of ‘Little Habana Cafe,’ Tanya Estevez, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which added to the struggles to attract business after the recent hurricanes.

Despite difficulties, teamwork has kept the business open.

"We were closed for a whole month, between no power and not having transportation and dealing with the challenges of losing our home," said Tanya. 

"So we need all the help we can get these days. You get it down, you know, you prioritize what needs to get done," said co-owner Al Estevez.

Little Habana Cafe in Riverview.

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Local perspective:

They don't just serve food, but a slice of Cuban culture.

Nestled in the heart of Riverview, 'Little Habana Cafe' is celebrating 15 years of success.

"Everybody that walks in that door is family. We treat everybody like family," said Tanya Estevez, owner of Little Habana Cafe. "Everybody that comes in here. Sometimes they tell us they feel like they've known this for 20 years and that's what we love."

Little Habana Cafe in Riverview.

What started as a small five-table operation has blossomed into a community favorite. 

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The owners, Al and Tanya, are originally from Cuba, and they serve flavors straight from the island. 

"Our chicken and garlic and wine sauce, for sure," said Tanya. "Our spicy oxtail, our steak sandwich that you saw me make, about ten of them. Three breaded steaks. We try to make everything from scratch every day."

The ‘Little Habana Cafe’ is open Wednesday through Saturday, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Source: Information for this story was gathered by FOX 13's Mark Wilson and Bryan Gray.

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