Domingo’s Café is a multi-generational, family-run small business thriving in Old Town Goleta for 26 years, and going back even further in other Santa Barbara locations. Forty years back, in fact. Domingo Sifuentez started the business in 1986 and, along with his family and dedicated staff, has continued to serve the greater Santa Barbara community in more ways than one.
How has this restaurant persisted through the changing Goleta food scene? A strong sense of genuine community is the answer. I had the joy of sitting down with Sifuentez, as well as his daughters, Monica Scafidi and Sonya Williams. “We are multi-generational, and so are our customers. We started with ones my dad’s age, and then their kids come in, and then they bring their kids in. It’s nice to see that we’re very family-oriented and community-based. You’re not a stranger after you come in here once. You get stuck with us. You’re part of our family,” Scafidi, the eldest daughter of Sifuentez and overseer of business operations, said.
“I can say I love all my customers. They’ve been with me for years and years. Now we’re seeing their kids come,” Sifuentez said. “They all want to give me a hug.”
“That’s probably the highlight of his day,” Scafidi responded…