Los Chamos
Doris Hernandez
Los Chamos is a Venezuelan restaurant that opened in October 2020; one of their main dishes include the arepa. Los Chamos is in Southwark, and they mostly do takeaways. Still, they have recently expanded the sitting area to have more eat-in customers.
Tell us a bit about you
My name is Doris Hernandez, I was born in San Cristobal, Venezuela, and I’m the owner of Los Chamos. I have broad experience working in restaurants and customer service, which persuaded me to have my own business to sell delicious Venezuelan dishes, including the famous arepas.
How did your business start and what motivated you?
During the pandemic, I had no job, and it was difficult for me to find one. Therefore, I decided to start selling traditional Venezuelan food on social media, choosing Facebook as the primary platform for selling. It was a success, so it persuaded me to push even further and get my own takeaway business, which is now a dining area.
Can you tell us about some challenges and proud moments?
Before the pandemic, I looked for a job and couldn’t get one. That challenge was the one I needed to start my dream business. I’m very proud of offering Venezuelan snacks and dishes and customers liking them and recommending them. I’m also very proud of managing well my company and even expanding my business through this uncertain time.
“If you have a dream, you have to go for it because you just don’t know what’s going to happen.”
— Doris Hernandez
Where can we find you?
Visit my local restaurant
145, Eagle Yard Arch,
Maldonado Walk, Hampton St,
SE1 6SP
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 10.00am – 8.00pm
Saturday to Sunday: 10.30am – 8.00pm