In Minneapolis, the owners of Oro by Nixta, Kate and Gustavo Romero, offer a compelling account of how intensified federal immigration enforcement is profoundly affecting their restaurant, their employees, and the wider community. Recognized among the Best New Restaurants of 2024, Oro by Nixta spotlights a diverse array of corn varieties in its vibrant seasonal Mexican cuisine. This interview provides an unvarnished look into the complexities they face, including the constant fear experienced by their staff and the measures they’ve taken to protect and support them. Their story underscores the critical human dimension of immigration issues, moving beyond political divides to focus on personal impact.

Minneapolis Restaurant Owners Detail Struggles Amidst Heightened Immigration Enforcement

In a recent interview, Kate and Gustavo Romero, the dynamic chef-owners of Oro by Nixta in Minneapolis, shed light on the pervasive challenges their restaurant and community are encountering due to escalated federal immigration enforcement. The couple revealed that their establishment operates with doors constantly secured, a direct response to the palpable fear among their staff, many of whom are people of color diligently navigating immigration processes. They recounted distressing incidents where employees witnessed neighbors being apprehended, highlighting the immediate and personal nature of the situation.

With Minneapolis’s population of approximately 430,000, the reported presence of 3,000 federal agents signifies an overwhelming and omnipresent enforcement environment. This climate has rendered the current period the most arduous in their extensive culinary careers, making daily business operations incredibly complex. The unpredictable attendance of employees, driven by fear, adds another layer of difficulty to managing a restaurant in these uncertain times.

Despite these daunting circumstances, the Romeros express immense gratitude for the unwavering support from the Minneapolis community. Local residents are actively rallying to back businesses owned by people of color and women, a movement that has significantly bolstered Oro by Nixta. Recent recognition, such as a James Beard Award semifinalist nomination for Best Chef: Midwest, has not only brought in more reservations but also provided a vital lifeline, enabling them to maintain operations and secure their employees' livelihoods. Regular patrons have gone above and beyond, offering financial assistance via platforms like Venmo to help with employee groceries and transportation, underscoring the deep-seated kindness within the city.

The Romeros are proactively ensuring all necessary documentation is in place to safeguard their team. They uphold a policy that allows employees to abstain from work if they feel unsafe, prioritizing their well-being. Kate vividly recalled a chilling incident where, while running errands with her five-year-old son, they were alerted to ICE’s presence, prompting her son to question his father’s safety—a poignant illustration of the profound emotional toll on families.

The couple also commended the resilience of the Minneapolis community, which has organized protests even in sub-zero temperatures, offering mutual support through actions like distributing hand warmers and coffee. The widespread adoption of whistles as an alert mechanism further exemplifies the community’s collective vigilance. Oro by Nixta remains deeply committed to Minneapolis, inspired by its people and businesses, and its aspiration for a Nobel Peace Prize for its sustained peaceful protests. They urge individuals outside Minneapolis to discuss these events, advocating for broader awareness and support for organizations like Salt Cure Restaurant Recovery Fund and Help the House, which provide essential aid to those affected.

The struggles faced by Kate and Gustavo Romero at Oro by Nixta serve as a powerful reminder of the intricate interplay between immigration policy, community resilience, and economic stability. Their narrative underscores the human cost of heightened enforcement and highlights the critical role local support systems play in mitigating its impact. It compels us to consider not only the systemic challenges but also the individual stories of fear, perseverance, and unwavering hope that emerge from such environments. Ultimately, their experience reinforces the idea that true societal progress hinges on empathy, collective action, and a commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities.