Steve Santiago is bringing the Cubano menu to diners in Brewer by creating a Latin Caribbean cuisine-inspired restaurant called A Taste of Sunshine in Maine. According to BDN Maine, Santiago, a native of New York, spent his time teaching students how to cook at the Hampden Academy after he retired from the law enforcement agency.

A descent of Puerto Rico, it's not far that his cooking skills would lean towards authentic Latin and Caribbean gastronomy, and A Taste of Sunshine in Maine promises to deliver just that. Santiago, who admits to have tried almost every cuisine in every country his family has visited, says that he's a self-made chef and foodie.

He introduces his new endeavor as a meal for the family -- not fancy but definitely appetizing. He said, "This is food your Grandma would make, this is street food, this is food that families eat. It's hearty, and it's flavorful. It's not spicy. It's flavorful... We're starting with sandwiches, to get people used to it, and then we'll introduce other dishes as we move along."

In order to keep the menu interesting, A Taste of Sunshine in Maine plans to launch different daily specials such as barbecued chicken, Puerto Rican chicken fricassee, stewed beef and vegetable dish called Ropa Vieja and Mike's Plantain Balls also known as Mofongo.

Santiago's business has also worked closely with its locals by partnering with nearby suppliers for his restaurant. Located at 14 North Main St. in Brewer, Santiago said, "We wanted to make sure we were a part of the community. We're definitely a family-centric business. May kids are working right alongside me."

According to WCSH6, Santiago was also prompted to try the Latin Caribbean cuisine after he noticed its absence on the food scene in the area. The locally supplied ingredients for their menu include fresh breads and smoked meat. The restaurant has been about delivering what a true Caribbean-inspired family dish would look and taste like.

He also suggests that their menu will be very much like what you see in the kitchens of your Latin Caribbean friends. A Taste of Sunshine in Maine will have a soft opening on Saturday, diners who wish to get a taste of the Cubano menu can come as early as 11 a.m. for the experience.