Nico & Diegos Story
The story of Nico and Diego’s journey to start their small business began like many lasting partnerships-with a chance meeting. About fifteen years ago, a mutual friend brought them together, sparking a connection that would eventually lead them down the path of entrepreneurship. They both shared a desire to create something in the food industry, even when it seemed too hard to open a regular restaurant. After doing some research, the owners decided to take the food truck route to start with, giving the low-cost entry and the ability to sell empanadas wherever they desired. As Nico explained, “When food trucks became available in the Twin Cities, thus when we decided to go that route and start with the food truck, giving the low cost of entry.” This allowed them to test their concept and learn the ropes of the business without the pressure to maintain many employees or rent a building.
The decision to establish their local business in Minnetonka was a blend of personal connection and strategy. Nico and Diego, being residents of the area, had a deep understanding of the local community. Originally, the two owners were born and raised in Argentina-Diego in Cordoba and Nico in Buenos Aires-and eventually moved to the United States many years ago. They had already begun to cultivate a loyal customer base through their food truck ventures. “We started going to the local brewery, and mapped it with a food truck,” they recounted. “And we did well every time we went there.” The positive response from the Minnetonka community secured their belief that Minnetonka was the ideal location to establish their restaurant.
The transition from food truck to restaurant was not without its challenges. As Diego explained, “Since we started very gradually, we overcame a lot of those initial challenges by doing it that way, one step at a time.” They had already navigated the complexities of the food industry, but a new hurdle emerged: managing a team of employees. “When we opened the restaurant, the first challenge was working with employees who were not used to working in a restaurant,” he admitted. “It was always Nico and I doing everything.”
Despite facing some obstacles, owning a restaurant has been incredibly rewarding for Diego and Nico. As Nico shared, “I think, at the end of the day, the most rewarding part is having a good team, seeing that people enjoy working here.” Creating a positive and supportive work environment is something the owners deeply value. Beyond that, there is a deep appreciation for sharing their culinary passion with the community. “For the customers, it is sharing our food, or a little bit of our culture through the food that we serve,” they explained.
It is in those moments, when they witness the joy and appreciation on their customers’ faces, that they know they have created something truly special-a place where food, culture, and community converge.
What makes this place truly special is its ability to balance the preservation of cultural heritage with the need to innovate and adapt to its diverse customer base. At the core of Del Sur’s success is its menu, which reflects a balance between honoring Argentine culinary traditions and embracing innovation to cater to local tastes.
Empanadas, a typical Argentine dish, are the star of the menu. However, the owners have taken creative liberties to make their offerings more accessible to an American audience. “We added a few flavors that are not specifically from Argentina,” one of the owners explains. “That was mostly to cater to the different customer base that we have, like the barbecue chicken empanada or adding sauces with empanadas. In Argentina, very rarely do you get sauces with empanadas. But here, it’s like, well, we need to add little things here and there to make it more American-friendly.”
Beyond the food, Del Sur has become a cultural hub, hosting events that bring people together and celebrate Argentine traditions. Tango classes and soccer game-day gatherings are just two examples of how the owners use their space to foster community and share their heritage. “It’s just part of sharing our culture,” one owner says. “Everything is about the community-sharing and exposing the things that we grew up with, with the place we live in. You know, we both lived in the U.S. for a long time, and it’s that sense of, ‘This is how we do things.’”
Tango, often referred to as the soul of Argentina, is more than just a dance-it’s a storytelling art form. Hosting tango classes allows customers to immerse themselves in the cultural aspect of Argentine culture. Similarly, soccer game days transform the restaurant into a lively gathering spot where fans can cheer for their favorite teams. Soccer, or fútbol, holds a special place in Argentine hearts, and these events capture the togetherness and excitement that define the sport. “Soccer is incredibly popular in Argentina,” the owner notes. “It’s all about sharing that same spirit of the cultural experience with our customers.”
What sets Del Sur apart is its ability to create a sense of belonging for everyone who walks through its doors. Whether it’s through a bite of a perfectly baked empanada, a twirl on the dance floor during a tango class, or the collective roar of fans during a soccer match, the owners have built a space where cultures intersect and connections flourish. Their journey is a testament to the power of food and culture to bring people together. By blending tradition with innovation, they’ve created more than just a restaurant-they’ve built a community.
Malcolm Yards
If you love Del Sur, and you’re looking for a place to explore new flavors, support local chefs, and connect with others, Malcolm Yards Market is the spot for you. Located in Minneapolis, MN Prospect Park Neighborhood, Malcolm Yards is a modern community dedicated to bringing Minnesota communities together as a food hall with 9 different cuisine styles and other amenities such as dog parks, bike trails, and lovely outdoors seating. This unique gathering space has quickly become a favorite destination for locals and visitors, offering an experience that goes beyond just great food. The market hosts a diverse lineup of talented chefs and food vendors, each offering their cultural traditions and flavors. From savory sweet tacos at Martes Tacos to Momo Dosa’s delectable crepes and dumplings. These vendors, along with many others, showcase the market’s commitment to welcoming different cultures and traditions, inviting diners to explore a world of flavors. This culinary diversity not only enriches the dining experience but also fosters a sense of community. As people try new dishes and learn about the origins of different foods, they gain a deeper appreciation for the richness of global cultures. This shared experience helps break down barriers, encouraging open-mindedness and inclusivity. One of the most inspiring aspects of Malcolm Yards Market is its dedication to supporting new chefs and entrepreneurs. By providing a shared space with lower overhead costs, the market allows culinary talents to focus on perfecting their craft without the financial burden of running a standalone restaurant. Which is exactly how Del Sur started their food truck business. Beyond the food, Malcolm Yards Market is a place where people come together to relax, connect, and create memories. Whether you’re grabbing lunch with coworkers, enjoying a family outing, or meeting friends for a casual dinner, the welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel at home. With its outdoor seating areas and lively events, Malcolm Yards Market perfectly captures the spirit of Minneapolis.
