Editor’s note: Antonio Damian spoke through a translator for this story

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — La Costa Chica restaurant and grocery store is a labor of love for Antonio Damian and his family

“He expresses a great deal of happiness knowing many customers become regulars, as his aim is always to ensure they feel like family when they visit,” said Antonio Damian, owner of La Costa Chica, via a translator.

Originally a small grocery store on Market Street, the business has significantly grown in popularity. The newly opened location on North Roan Street now features a larger grocery store, bar, butcher shop, and additional amenities.

“It seems nothing short of a miracle because reaching this point wasn’t something he initially envisioned. When he observes the growth, he feels incredibly thankful.”

The sense of family is crucial to La Costa Chica’s achievements. With nearly 20 staff members, the focus is to make every customer feel warmly received.

Leslie Damian, Antonio’s daughter and manager at La Costa Chica, witnesses this daily. “The goal is to create bonds and connections with everyone who walks through our doors,” Leslie Damian remarked.

That atmosphere was on full display during a recent boxing match watch party featuring Mexican world champion fighter Canelo Alverezz

“We strive to craft a welcoming atmosphere where visitors feel at home. This means engaging with the servers, front staff, or even those working behind the scenes, fostering a sense of familiarity. It’s a wonderful feeling to have guests return and enjoy that experience,” Leslie Damian added.

That experience also includes traditional dishes with unique ingredients.

“We definitely try to get the flavor from Oaxaca in order to get it here,” Leslie Damian said.

And unique services that guests can’t get anywhere else.

“From the restaurant to the grocery to money transfers, a whole bunch of stuff, a lot that people do, tend to look for that kind find in major big kind of stores,” Leslie Damian said.

And for some, it’s just simple pleasures.

“Get snacks that remind them of home, grab and go,” Leslie Damian said.

Home and heart are the secret ingredients. Even the name. La Costa Chica pays homage to Antonio Damian’s home region in Mexico.

“He is very appreciative of the recognition that Costa Chica gets from the area.”