Tasty Gastonia: A Culinary Gem in Gaston County
It was a beautiful day in Gastonia, North Carolina when I sat down at my favorite restaurant, Tasty, located at 3826 South New Hope Road. I had the pleasure of speaking with the owner, Ambi Acosta, who has not only built a thriving business but also cultivated a strong sense of community. Here’s what makes Tasty such a special place.
A Passion for Hospitality
When I asked Ambi what makes him tick, his response was simple: taking care of people. “Most of our customer base comes from word of mouth,” he shared. “We do a little marketing, but nothing beats treating customers well so they tell their friends and family.” That’s exactly how I found out about Tasty – through a recommendation.
The Inspiration Behind Tasty
Ambi and his wife had always struggled to find restaurants that offered healthier options, often having to travel to Charlotte for a satisfying meal. When the opportunity arose to open a restaurant in Gastonia, they jumped at the chance. “My wife put the menu together, and we just took off running,” Ambi explained. Their goal was to offer a balance – delicious, healthy options alongside indulgent comfort foods.
More Than Just a Restaurant
Tasty stands out for several reasons:
- A Versatile Menu: Whether you’re craving a fresh, gluten-free meal or a hearty burger, there’s something for everyone. Ambi ensures that even traditional comfort foods can be made with a healthier twist.
- A Unique Wine Approach: Unlike many restaurants that mark up wine prices significantly, Tasty offers bottles at near retail prices with no corking fee. “We want our customers to enjoy high-quality wine without feeling overcharged,” Ambi said.
- Exclusive Wine Selection: The restaurant prioritizes wines from small wineries, often securing bottles that are limited to just a few in the entire state.
Wine Dinners: A Community Favorite
What started as a joke among regulars quickly became a signature experience. Tasty’s monthly wine dinners feature four- to five-course meals expertly paired with unique wines. “Our first one in September sold out before we even officially announced it,” Ambi recalled. The next wine dinner is scheduled for March 24th and will feature winemaker Patrick Sullivan from Grey Stack.
A Family Atmosphere
One of the most remarkable aspects of Tasty is the way it builds relationships. Regulars aren’t just customers – they’re family. “We make sure that if you come here three or four times, we already know you by name,” Ambi said. This warmth and familiarity keep people coming back, fostering a community where everyone feels at home.
The Story Behind the Name
Ambi’s son used to come home from school and tell his mother how “tasty” his meals were. Inspired by his enthusiasm, Ambi decided to name the restaurant after his son’s go-to compliment – a heartfelt tribute to family and great food.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner – All Day Long
Recognizing a demand for all-day breakfast, Ambi and his wife decided to include it on the menu. But rather than sticking to traditional breakfast fare, they opted for something different. The addition of an espresso machine also allowed them to serve specialty lattes and gourmet coffee, making Tasty a perfect spot for any meal of the day.
A Place That Feels Like Home
Tasty isn’t just a restaurant – it’s an experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick breakfast, enjoying a leisurely dinner, or picking up a bottle of exclusive wine, you’re guaranteed to be greeted with a warm welcome and top-notch service.
If you haven’t yet visited Tasty in Gastonia, make plans to stop by. You might just find your new favorite spot!
If you enjoyed this article, I invite you to watch the full interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqOWLluaQe0.
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