We recently had the chance to connect with Serrano Barnes and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Serrano, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Well, I opened a restaurant last summer and I honestly have fed thousands of folks since then but I still feel proud when people get excited about the food and sauces. It makes me feel like I’m doing something right.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Serrano Barnes Owner of The Got Damn Sauce and SoLA Po Boys. We specialize in traditional New Orleans style Po Boys with an LA Flair and boutique style sauces and hot sauces. Our location is in Canoga Park inside of the Topanga Social located in the Westfield Topanga Mall. Our menu is inspired by Laker greats so most of our menu pays homage to Kobe, Magic and Shaq etc.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
For my most recent venture for SoLA, it would be my baby Randy! She got the ball rolling with that but besides her I have to give it to the Cov! My group of friends from Howard were my first guinea pigs. They allowed me to be creative and feed them to hone my skills and they still inspire me til this day! Cov Up!
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me that the work is not done. Struggles prepare us all for the next blessing so that’s how I have been moving since I realized that. Shout out my uncle Craig he gave me that knowledge.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Everyone’s food is good! Social media be have you think folks food really be outchea and it doesn’t and that makes me sad.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
Starting earlier. It’s never really the right or best time. You legit have to let go and let God.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www. Thegdsauce.com and www.Solapoboys.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegotdamnsauce?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== And https://www.instagram.com/solapoboys?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/Gip-Htje1s
