Community Spotlight: Federico
Neighbors who stroll down 3rd Street may find themselves lured by the scent of sizzling bratwursts and the hum of conversation spilling out of Wurstküche. Amid the clinking of glasses and the buzz of happy diners, one figure stands out—a man in an apron, always moving and always smiling. That’s Federico Vergara: the silent backbone of the Arts District.
For the past 16 years, Federico has been a fixture at Wurstküche as one of the restaurant’s original staff members since its doors first opened. Back then, the neighborhood looked very different. Federico recalls that there were only a handful of restaurants open, one of them being Wurstküche. He was delighted when he saw a shift in the neighborhood: more pedestrians and more restaurants. He predicts in five years, the street will be even more bustling.
His favorite thing about working at the restaurant is the camaraderie and friendships with his coworkers and neighbors. “I am very happy to be working at Wurstküche,” he says. He feels he hasn’t noticed how much time has passed.
Federico is proud to be part of Wurstküche, where he gets to eat and serve sausages and fries. It’s his favorite place he’s worked at. “Everywhere you go, the fries are processed. Here, they are fresh. We have the best service,” he laughs. “And the coldest beer. It’s a great environment. It’s home to a lot of people.”
Federico’s favorite order is a plain bratwurst topped with honey mustard, paired with a glass of Chimay Blue—a simple but satisfying combination.
Federico’s dedication extends far beyond the restaurant. One rainy day, during a heavy downpour, he was spotted clearing the gutters nearby, doing his best to divert the water from the restaurant. He didn’t expect praise—he was just doing what needed to be done. That moment was captured by a journalist, and Federico found himself unexpectedly on the front page of the LA Times.
In his spare time, Federico enjoys walking up and down Santa Fe Avenue. His pet peeve is people who don’t clean up after their dogs. He holds a deep appreciation for the neighborhood’s art, especially the Edward Ruscha mural by Kent Twitchell that overlooks his daily post—a towering reminder of the creativity that surrounds him.
Whether he’s wiping down tables or braving the rain to keep the entrance clear, Federico approaches each task with quiet consistency. He may not seek recognition, but for those who pass through Wurstküche regularly, he’s simply part of what makes the place feel grounded, an everyday presence in a neighborhood that’s constantly changing.
