By Shane Mead | Reporter
Many Waco locals and Baylor students alike have so far missed the chance to try Huaco Lounge, an authentic upscale Mexican restaurant owned by Sebastian Reyes, 57. Because of construction on University Parks Drive last year, accessibility to the restaurant was limited throughout both semesters.
Reyes was hindered by opening Huaco Lounge, a continuation of Huaco Eatery in Union Hall, in the midst of construction that seemed to never end.
“[The street] was closed for two years. It was super slow,” Reyes said. “Now it’s open; it’s better.”
Work was something instilled in Reyes during his childhood in Acapulco, Mexico.
“I was 7 years old when I started working,” Reyes said.
Though an incredibly young age to begin working, he said it had its benefits, as it taught him the perseverance he needed to keep his restaurant afloat.
“I didn’t come here be a troublemaker … I came here to work,” he said.
When Reyes first came to Waco, he opened Sebas Cocina on Austin Avenue, which he ended up selling in 2011. His work continued as he moved to Dallas, working as a chef for poker tournaments. Reyes then moved back to Mexico for some time before returning to Waco again six years ago. He said that this time, he returned stronger and ready to make things work.
His return to Waco began with the opening of Huaco Eatery, and later the opening of Huaco Lounge, in early 2023. Both food spots boast 4.5 and 4.7 ratings on Google Reviews respectively.
The importance of ratings and reviews were something emphasized heavily by Reyes.
“I always say, ‘Can you give me a review?'” Reyes said. “That’s how people hear about this restaurant.”
He appreciates the negative feedback just as much as the positive. Reyes asks for honesty from customers because it gives him the opportunity to make things right.
“If people don’t like it, I’ll tell my server to change it, give [the customer] the menu,” he said. “You don’t have to pay back. Be honest with me.”
The customer service Reyes provides is noticed by regulars at the restaurant and remains a big reason why they return.
“I noticed that the owner was very attentive and focused on making each customer’s experience enjoyable,” said Elizabeth Molina, an Irvine, Calif. senior. “He constantly made sure our waters were filled and our chips and salsa were full.”
Reyes is seen working at his restaurant every day, something unique to many restaurant owners.
In the future, Reyes said he hopes to see more students in his restaurant. He plans on doing specials, specifically for Baylor students, as well as something similar to the BearBucks system formerly used at his Huaco Eatery location in Union Hall.
He also said he wants to host an event, utilizing the large parking space he has in front of his restaurant. He is currently seeking assistance in promoting the event.
