Rising Stars: Meet Federico Laboureau of South La/ USC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Federico Laboureau

Hi Federico , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My husband, Maximilian Pizzi, and I are both production designers, and over the past two years, we’ve witnessed significant downturns in the film industry. Originally from Argentina, we had a plan when we moved here: if we ever needed to find another way to make ends meet, we would start making empanadas.

After 12 years in Los Angeles working in the film industry, that moment arrived. We began making frozen empanadas to sell to our friends, and they quickly became popular. Word spread, and soon friends of friends were placing orders. This is how FUEGOS LA was born in April 2024.

Today, FUEGOS LA proudly operates its first brick-and-mortar location in South LA, featuring a dining area and a wine bar.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It was both challenging and rewarding. We launched everything without any investors, and with the film industry’s instability slowing down cash flow, we had plenty of ideas but lacked the funds to implement them. Despite these obstacles, I have to admit that the love and support from our friends and family made the journey immensely gratifying.

Our commitment with FUEGOS is to build a sense of community. That’s the essence behind the name “FUEGOS.” For Argentinians, a fire is a gathering place—a spot where friends come together to chat and enjoy a glass of wine.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
We are production designers and experience creators, bringing our diverse backgrounds—not just as food enthusiasts—to craft a space where people can come together over food, music, and art. We’ve created a unique location with a nostalgic atmosphere that embodies our rich cultural heritage.

Much of Argentinian immigrant culture has European influences, which are reflected in our aesthetic choices. Our wine bar exudes nostalgia and decadence, inviting you to linger and savor the experience. We aim to foster an environment where people can connect and create lasting memories.

What does success mean to you?
While everyone needs money to live, our primary goal is to create a space where people feel they belong, regardless of their background or culture. We aim to provide a welcoming environment for all.
Many of our customers, after trying our food, often comment on how much they can feel the love in it. To us, that is the true measure of success—when people can experience that love and enjoy a special moment with us.

Pricing:

• Empanadas $5 each and there are packages
• Sandwiches average $15/18

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fuegosla.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fuegosla

Image Credits
Kort Havens And Rebecca Peloquin