Every morning in Charlotte, as the city awakens, the culinary team at Sabor Latin Street Grill begins their day. The rhythmic sounds of chopping vegetables fill the kitchens as onions are sliced, tomatoes are juiced, and cilantro mountains diminish under skilled hands.
With an impressive and expanding portfolio of 22 locations, co-founders Miriam ’13 MSW and Dalton ’07 Espaillat have clearly mastered the art of Latin American cuisine. Sabor, along with its sister restaurants, is celebrated for offering some of the most beloved and accessible Latin food in Charlotte. However, beyond the delicious plates, the company’s culture and the personal stories of its staff are what truly set it apart.
The inception of Sabor’s deeper mission began in 2016. Miriam, a UNC Charlotte social work alumna and native of El Salvador who immigrated to the U.S. as a child, was deeply moved by the unfolding immigration crisis. Witnessing the detention of thousands and the separation of families at the southern border, she felt a strong calling to act.
“It was children from my country,” she explained. “I was like, I can’t just watch this happen and not do anything about it.”
Finding Ways to Make a Local Difference Through Sabor Latin Street Grill
Initially feeling overwhelmed by the logistical challenges of directly aiding those at the border, Miriam shifted her focus to her local community. Inspired by a Harvard study revealing Charlotte’s stark reality as last among America’s 50 largest cities in economic mobility – the ability for individuals to improve their financial standing over time – Miriam conceived a powerful idea.
“I started engaging with local community members and organizations to explore how we could establish career pathways for individuals facing employment barriers due to various challenges, whether it be language, education, or mental health,” Miriam stated. “Our aim was to create meaningful opportunities within our community.”
Leveraging personal networks and partnerships with organizations like NC Works and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Miriam meticulously built a grassroots initiative. This network focused on providing internships and job opportunities at Sabor restaurants for vulnerable and underemployed individuals in Charlotte.
Miriam Espaillat, co-founder of Sabor Latin Street Grill, stands proudly in her restaurant, showcasing her commitment to community and authentic Latin cuisine.
Miriam attributes her transformative experience at UNC Charlotte to equipping her with the essential skills to emerge as a community leader.
“You have a toolbox when you come out of the program.” – Miriam Espaillat ’13 reflecting on the Master of Social Work program at UNC Charlotte.
“The School of Social Work provides comprehensive training that spans mental health, advocacy, and resource navigation. It’s a broad education that truly equips you. You gain a versatile toolbox from the program,” Miriam emphasized.
Sabor Internship Program: A Path Forward for Charlotte Residents
Ada Sanchez’s journey exemplifies the impact of Sabor’s initiatives. Struggling academically and uncertain about her future after high school, Ada discovered the Sabor internship program through a culinary class in her senior year at Garinger High School, a Title-I school facing graduation rates significantly below the state average. Ada was actively seeking direction and opportunity.
“I didn’t have a job then, and I thought, why not give it a shot?” Ada recalled.
Initially seeking a short-term internship for income, Ada’s experience at Sabor blossomed into a fulfilling year-and-a-half career. Starting as a dishwasher, she diligently progressed to supervising a Sabor location. Higher education wasn’t initially on Ada’s post-graduation radar, but now culinary school is a real possibility.
Ada Sanchez, a Sabor Latin Street Grill employee, expertly prepares food in the kitchen, demonstrating the career growth opportunities provided by Sabor.
Ada Sanchez’s dedication saw her rise from dishwasher to line cook and now to a supervisory role at Sabor.
“Growing up wasn’t easy, but I made the best of what I had. This program is truly life-changing. I always tell Miriam she’s the reason I am where I am today. She’s the driving force behind all of this for me,” Ada shared.
Ada’s narrative resonates with many of the 50+ individuals Sabor has employed through its community outreach. It also mirrors the broader story of Mecklenburg County, where the Hispanic population has surged by 52% in the last decade, yet faces disproportionately limited access to essential services like healthcare, housing, and employment.
Reflecting on the encouragement and support she received from her community, Miriam emphasizes the concept of building social capital.
“I was raised in a loving home by hardworking parents, but guidance on post-high school paths was limited. The connections I’ve made within the community have been instrumental in linking me to others and expanding opportunities.”
A vibrant hero shot of Sabor Latin Street Grill restaurant exterior, showcasing its inviting atmosphere and commitment to authentic Latin street food.
Sabor’s successful outreach, coupled with its focus on employee well-being, underscores the increasing importance of health and human services expertise in the business world.
“Social workers are invaluable across all sectors – from restaurants to banking. We can play a crucial role in reducing stigmas, fostering sensitivity, and raising awareness that every individual, at some point, faces personal challenges,” Miriam concluded. Sabor Latin Street Grill is not just serving delicious food; they are building a stronger, more inclusive Charlotte, one job and one taco at a time.
