Lanijah Daniels opened an unusual food service today (Sept. 6).
First of all, the business, called LaniFuego’s, is housed in the kitchen at the First Baptist Church of Herculaneum-Pevely, 1315 Abbey Lane.
Another thing that makes the business unusual is its limited menu – Mexican street tacos, Mexican street corn, soda and juice.
Daniels said the tacos and corn are something special.
In addition, the business, which offers carry-outs only, is open just one day a week, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Daniels said the church is supporting her first business venture, and she hopes to not only feed people, but also to inspire them.
“I offer really good food for the body and, also, for the soul,” said Daniels, 26, of Pevely. “I love to cook. My passion is cooking for others. I feel the food I put out is delicious and I want to inspire people with positive affirmations.”
Daniels offered a preview of what her business will offer during Pevely Days, held August 18-20, when she sold her wares from a booth.
She said she received many compliments for her food.
Her friend, Brianna Shell, 23, is assisting Daniels with the business, and church members are volunteering their time to help her with it.
Daniels said she hopes to eventually expand the business.
“Starting out, we’ll only be open on Tuesdays here,” she said. “I hope to eventually get a food truck and serve all of Jefferson County. We’ll also add more items to the menu as we go.
“I’m hoping to do a soul-food Sunday and a fish Friday.”
Daniels said she’s grateful for the church’s support.
“I’m a member of the church,” Daniels said. “I’m a single mom and both of my kids go to Bible school and Sunday school here. First Baptist Church is allowing me to use their kitchen. I’m going to give them 10 percent of my profits.”
Associate Pastor Scott Herman said this will be the first time the church has offered space in its facility for someone to start a business, but the idea falls in line with the church’s mission.
“This is something we’ve talked about, how we can help our church members,” Herman said. “That’s what our mission of our church is, displaying the ways of Christ Jesus.”
He also praised Daniels’ food.
“It’s very, very good,” said Herman, pastor of youth services and community outreach. “Her tacos are fantastic. So are her elote (Mexican corn).”
For more information or to place an order, send an email to lanifuegos@gmail.com, visit the LaniFuego LLC Facebook page or call 636-264-3900.