Meet Delfino Barone, Owner of Delfino's Food Cart

Timothy Becker: Del how long have you been in the food business?

Delfino Barone: I've been in the food business for 57 years.

Timothy Becker: What type of food businesses have you owned over the years?

Delfino Barone: I had a restaurant called Lisa’s Place on the corner of Parker Street and Colonial Road in Manchester for over 10 years. When I lost my wife I gave it up. I also had a fruit stand on Route 6, across from Munson's Chocolates. I had a customer who told me that he had a fruit stand for sale. I told him that I'll take it. He said you don't know where it is. I told him, I don't care I'll take it. I sold it in 1961.

Timothy Becker: How long have you had your food cart at 244 Main St. here in Manchester?

Delfino Barone: I've been here for about four years. My son Anthony told me one day that I was looking “portly” I said no that I am just a little thick. I decided to get active with a business. I bought my food cart from Bobby Turcotte. I now serve hot-dogs, all kinds of burgers, and sausage and pepper sandwiches. I also have weekly specials like steak sandwiches and fresh chicken sandwiches. I make everything fresh right before your eyes.

Timothy Becker: What trends have you seen since the recession hit?

Delfino Barone: People are watching their pennies. My prices are in line with the working man. Since the price of gas has gone up customers that used to come every day now come a few times a week.

Timothy Becker: You daughter Lisa has been helping with your business lately?

Delfino Barone: Since I had my back operation Lisa has been helping me. Eventually Lisa may take over the cart.

Timothy Becker: Would you agree that your personality is an important part of your success?

Delfino Barone: If I don't insult the customers, they want to know if I'm feeling okay. People want to forget about their own problems and how long they have been waiting. When it's busy I talk to them. If there is a long line, I ask the people that are three or four back to take the orders from the people behind them for me.

Timothy Becker: What type of occupations do your customers have?

Delfino Barone: Doctors, lawyers, police and firemen, town employees. I get them all. I have customers that come from South Windsor and Glastonbury. They all love my chili.

Timothy Becker: Do you have any advice for anyone that aspires to open their own restaurant?

Delfino Barone: Be honest with people. Be an extrovert. People want to talk, so I listen to them. You need to be Mr. Teflon.