BY TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Fusion By Manuel, now open in downtown Hays, promises honest cooking, market-fresh ingredients and a delightful dining experience.
The new restaurant, 700 Main, is in the former Tiger Burger location.
Manuel Hernandez, chef and owner of the establishment, was born in Mexico City and began working in several hotels and restaurants at the age of 16 before moving to Chicago and finding work there.
He eventually made his way to Hays and worked in construction but attended a culinary school in Boulder Colorado before establishing himself as a chef in Gella's Diner and LB Brewing.
After working in Gella’s Diner for 15 years, he decided to pursue a different career in nursing at Plainvilles Redbud Village. When visiting Main Street, Hernandez saw the initial Tiger Burger location up for lease and jumped at the opportunity to start his own business at the age of 41.
“It's always been my dream to have my own restaurant, cook my own food and pretty much do whatever I want,” he said. “I love cooking, and I think God gave me a talent. I’m very good at what I do.”
Fusion By Manuel's opening day was last Monday. Hernandez said within days of operation, the restaurant has seen a considerable amount of customers order from his diversified menu that you won’t find anywhere else in Hays.
“What other places do you know where you can eat Paella from Spain, Pad Thai from Thailand, Baba Ganoush from Eastern Agaros and a burrito from Mexico? What other restaurants can you eat that in the same spot?” Hernandez said.
Other entrees featured on the menu include sizzling beef, ribeye steak and tiger burger along with popular dishes like empanadas, arepa and gyros.
Hernandez also intends to introduce a new dish from around the world every weekend, which will be available only for a limited time at Fusion By Manuel.
Within the establishment is an identical look to previous restaurants that once served the community. Hernandez doesn’t plan on redesigning the interior of his new business due to its significance in the Hays area.
“In the beginning, I didn't know this place had so much history,” he said. “Every single thing around here, even the floor with the coins and pennies gives character to this place, and I want to respect that.”
Hernandez hopes the quality of the food speaks for itself as he keeps his family in mind when working behind the grill.
“I always enjoy cooking. I always say when I put something on the table, I’m thinking about the people I love the most. I think about my kids and family,” Hernandez said.
Fusion By Manuel has four employees, but Hernandez hopes to grow his business in a slow and timely manner.
He also credits Hays entrepreneur, Jacob Proffitt for assisting him in starting his own business.
Fusion By Manuel is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The restaurants' full menu can be found on their website. You can also follow the restaurant on Facebook.