![\"Frank](\"http:\/\/news.tstc.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/TSTCAlum-FrankieFlavs.jpg\")
<\/a> be doing what I\u2019m doing.\u201d<\/p>\nThe Rio Hondo native graduated with an associate degree from TSTC\u2019s Culinary Arts program in 2014 and said TSTC changed his life because, although he already worked in the restaurant industry, he had never worked in a kitchen.<\/p>\n
\u201cTSTC prepared me so well. It allowed me to sharpen my cooking skills, while learning the business aspect of the industry,\u201d he said. \u201cBecause of TSTC I am now well-rounded in the food business.\u201d<\/p>\n
Before opening his restaurant earlier this year, Macias owned a gourmet burger food truck. It was through this first business venture that he built a strong following.<\/p>\n
For two years, Macias\u2019 food truck served Harlingen and surrounding communities serving up their most popular burgers such as the Cubano, consisting of braised pork cooked in a marinade placed in a buttered Bolillo bun and topped with ham, pickles, Swiss cheese and a touch of mustard.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople doubted that my food truck could do well in the Valley, but it caught on and here we are now with a restaurant. Truly a dream come true,\u201d said Macias.<\/p>\n
The restaurant has not even been opened more than a month and Macias said response has been great.<\/p>\n
\u201cI was nervous about the transition from the food truck to a restaurant but I\u2019m truly enjoying the experience,\u201d he said. \u201cBeing able to see the joy my food brings to people is the most rewarding and exciting thing.\u201d<\/p>\n
The 41-year-old’s Yelp restaurant reviews prove Macias\u2019 gourmet burgers are being enjoyed.<\/p>\n
One comment read, \u201cIf you\u2019re looking for a delicious gourmet burger prepared with just the right combination of flavors to satisfy even the pickiest of eater\u2026look no further than Frankie Flav\u2019z.\u201d<\/p>\n
Macias said however, it\u2019s not only the food that keeps people coming back, but the service. He hires TSTC alumni. Some he went to school with and others he met later, but he never doubts their skill.<\/p>\n
\u201cTSTC has such a great culinary arts program,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m never worried about my employees\u2019 work ethic or skills.\u201d<\/p>\n
So what does Macias\u2019 future look like?<\/p>\n
He will be reviving the Frankie Flav\u2019z food truck for special catering events such as festivals, corporate meetings and weddings and quincenerias.<\/p>\n