Co-Owner, Mi Gusto Restaurant & Bar
Jose Fernandez is the owner of Mi Gusto Restaurant and Bar in New Haven. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Jose moved to the U.S. in 1964, and to Connecticut in 1989. The pandemic was a huge setback for his establishment when it first opened three years ago. With the help of SAMA and HEDCO, Jose was able to secure a $250,000 loan that helped immeasurably. Now the business is finally open and has been running since September 28, 2022. Jose’s wife, Sussete, is the chef and their youngest daughter also helps when she’s not at school at UNH.