MONROE, CT — El Sol Deli is known for its Mexican-American fusion, serving its patrons cold cuts, sandwiches, traditional chicken cutlets and Philly cheesesteaks, as well as tortillas and chicken, beef and steak tacos made with fresh meats. The business recently opened its third location at 179 Main St. in Monroe.
“We are the creators of the taco empanada,” said the owner, Javier Rangel. “We cut it open and serve it with romaine lettuce, sour cream and a homemade avocado topping sauce. We’re different from any taco place within 100 miles.”
On Friday afternoon, Rangel, joined by his family and friends, celebrated El Sol Deli’s official grand opening, which included a ribbon cutting ceremony with First Selectman Terry Rooney, Economic and Community Development Director William Holsworth, Monroe Chamber of Commerce President Ray Giovanni and fellow chamber members.
Rangel emigrated to the U.S. from Michoacán, Mexico, when he was 15-years-old. He and Rosa, his wife of 20 years, have three daughters, Lisa, Ellen and Lizbeht who help them run the family business.
Rangel’s sister-in-law, Zoila, is among the family and friends supporting the deli with cooking and preparation, he said.
Javier and Rosa Rangel live in Bridgeport, where they raised their family and he took a job at Jay’s Roofing.
In 2020, Rangel opened his first deli at 1400 West Broad St. in Stratford, just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As officials grappled with the public health crisis, many businesses failed amid lockdowns, but Rangel, who is a deeply religious man, said he believes God had another plan for him.
Not only did El Sol Deli remain afloat, Rangel added a second location at 631 Main St. in Manchester before opening the newest eatery in Monroe.
“God blessed us,” he said. “It’s a testimony of our family. If you trust God, he will not let you fail. We are a family of faith, goodwill and friendships looking for a good future for everybody.”
Rangel said he is a man of faith who respects people of all religions and walks of life.
He said El Sol Deli has flourished due to the unique flavors of its food and the close relationship it has with its loyal patrons.
“We’re happy to be part of the Monroe community,” Rangel said. “Customers are not customers, customers are our family.”
The first selectman told Rangel his deli is a welcome addition to Monroe.
“We need more choices. It makes people stay in town. You want to eat food that grandma made,” Rooney said of traditional recipes passed down through the generations. “International food is the best.”
El Sol Deli, which is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, also serves breakfast. For information, call the business at 203-220-8735 or visit its Instagram and Facebook pages.
