For the last 15 years Diego Sarmiento has been working at various delis and restaurants in the area. But two weeks ago he became his own boss by opening a deli, BBQ and catering business in Mohegan Lake.
The Ecuador native, who lives in Croton-on-Hudson, operates the newly opened Diego's Deli along with his wife Johanna. Unlike other delis in the area, Sarmiento said he cooks everything himself – from the pulled pork, to the ribs, homemade BBQ sauce, corn bread and potato salads.
His deli is open seven days a week, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features many Southern BBQ specialties and American classics. Some of their BBQ specialties include St. Louis style ribs, Carolina pulled pork, and Texas beef brisket. Diego’s also features burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads and more.
"We make everything here," Sarmiento said. "Everything is homemade."
Diego's Deli also offers catering and take out options. Free delivery is available with a purchase of $20 or more.
Sarmiento's passion for food and cooking began when he was a teenager, but it wasn't until his father returned from a trip to New York City that he decided he too wanted to work in the States for a short period of time.
Little did he know his life was about to change. The man, who was at the time studying to be a dentist in Ecuador, pursued a new love and passion. Initially he was washing dishes in New York, but he eventually took classes at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) and BOCES in Yorktown and began working as a chef in various restaurants.
The former chef said he looks forward to interacting with his customers, catering to their needs and offering them whatever they might need and want – something different from his previous jobs where he worked behind the scenes in the kitchen.
"What I'm trying to do [here] is the same thing with my cooking – show people I really care," Sarmiento said. "Just talk to me, let me know what I can do. We're here for you."
Diego's Deli is located Route 6 across the street from the Mohegan Diner next to Dunkin Donuts. They're open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can find them on Facebook here or call 914-743-1680 for more information.
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