Today we’d like to introduce you to Nelia Cruz Delgado.
Hi Nelia , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been working in restaurants since I was 14—started as a host, moving through every station from bartending to running the grill. I was born in Mexico and raised here in Austin, and food has always been a way for me to stay connected—to my roots, my family, and my community.
After years of working in Austin staples like Tres Amigos, Maudie’s, and Cisco’s, I finally took the leap. I poured everything I’ve learned (and everything I love) into this place: Pepita’s Café & Bar.
Pepita’s is where my heart lives. It’s the kind of place I always wished existed—where you can come in early for breakfast or linger over tacos and cocktails later in the day. Where things are fresh, homemade, and real. Where the music is good, the people are kind, and the food feels like it was made just for you.
The recipes come from everywhere—some from my family, some from my travels in Mexico, and some from nights behind the bar, learning how to make flavors sing together. I use tortillas I trust, salsas I make fresh, and I marinate my shrimp and meats like I’m feeding people I love. Because I am.
Pepita’s is personal. It’s joy. It’s love on a plate.
And I’m so happy to share it with you.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s definitely had its challenges and a lot of learning curves. Opening a restaurant is never easy—there’s so much to figure out as you go. But I’ve come to realize that it all works out in the end. Every obstacle has been a lesson, and we just take it one day at a time. Honestly, we feel so blessed to be welcomed into the neighborhood the way we have. The support has been amazing, and we’re grateful for how far we’ve come—and hopeful that we’ll continue to grow as more people discover us.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m most proud of simply having a standing restaurant that continues to grow—and of watching it bring people together. There’s something really special about seeing customers connect with the food and the space, and knowing that we created that from the ground up.
I didn’t come from a traditional culinary background—I worked my way up from hosting tables to managing kitchens, bartending, and eventually learning to do it all. That path taught me to lead with heart and resilience, and I think that’s what sets Pepita’s apart. It’s not just about good food—it’s about soul, hospitality, and creating an experience people want to come back to.
We’re still learning, still growing, and incredibly thankful for the community that’s embraced us.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Most definitely my determination. I’ve worked hard to build something from the ground up, and that drive keeps me going every single day. I also believe my attention to detail has played a big part—whether it’s how a plate is presented, the music playing in the background, or how clean the bathrooms are—every little thing matters when you’re creating a full experience for your guests.
But above all, it’s how I treat people. I lead with kindness, respect, and care—treating my team and my guests the way I would want to be treated. I want everyone who walks through our doors to feel at home, comfortable, and appreciated. Whether it’s a quick “Thank you,” a warm welcome, or remembering someone’s favorite order—those small moments create connection, and that’s what Pepita’s is all about.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pepitascafeandbar.com/
Image Credits
Portrait photo by Eugenio Santiago
ōme Creative house
