Twelve months after reopening, La Estancia restaurant continues to operate in a limited space while reconstruction work moves forward following the fire that destroyed most of the property.

Owner Julio Maple remains optimistic as he oversees the remodeling project while continuing to personally greet and serve customers who visit the restaurant.

According to Maple, personalized service has been one of the main factors behind the restaurant’s long-standing popularity, along with dedication, hospitality, and attention to customer needs.

Years of working directly with customers have given him a deep understanding of both their expectations and the needs of the business.

Maintaining that approach has helped La Estancia remain successful even during difficult periods.

Although the recent decline in tourism has affected the restaurant, as it has many businesses connected to the tourism industry, Maple’s commitment to customer service and his ability to adapt have helped keep the business moving forward.

He believes every customer deserves the same attention and hospitality, regardless of where they come from.

“If I hadn’t focused on the local market, things would be very different,” Maple said, noting that local customers have played a critical role during the current downturn and now account for approximately 60 percent of his clientele.

While tourism from the United States has declined, many of the restaurant’s loyal local and foreign customers have continued to return.

According to Maple, personalized service remains one of the main reasons they keep coming back.

The experience of rebuilding after the fire also reinforced an important lesson: that the restaurant’s recovery depends on determination, hard work, and the support of employees and suppliers whom he considers part of the La Estancia family.

Together, he said, they are helping make possible the rebirth of one of Rosarito’s best-known restaurants.