At First Round Boba and Crepes, owner Guadalupe “Lupe” Peralta, 21 years old, offers a creative twist on the traditional crepe, serving up innovative dessert options that have quickly become a local favorite in Salem. One dish in particular stands out: the “Sunny Delight†crepe, a signature offering that blends fresh strawberries, bananas, Nutella, and a house-made cream that elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level.
A nostalgic connection to his childhood is what drives his dedication to crafting each dish with care and creativity, the inspiration behind the “Sunny Delight†is deeply personal to Peralta. “When I was 12, my sister made me a crepe, and it was a life-changing experience,†he shared. “That moment sparked my passion for crepes, which is now at the heart of my restaurant’s concept.â€
What sets the “Sunny Delight” apart from other crepes is the homemade house-blend cream. While many creperies may rely on pre-made ingredients, Peralta prides himself on making this signature cream in-house, ensuring a fresh and distinct taste. “The uniqueness comes from using fresh ingredients and making everything from scratch,†Peralta said. This attention to detail has earned the dish rave reviews, not just from customers but also from industry insiders—particularly within his own family. “My business partner’s family owns several restaurants in Portland, and their feedback has been a huge boost to my confidence,†he said.
Ensuring the dish’s consistency is no small feat, and Peralta places great emphasis on quality control. “Exceptional customer service is our top priority,†he explained. “If a crepe doesn’t meet our high standards, it’s immediately remade.†Training his staff to uphold these values is integral to maintaining the restaurant’s reputation. “Our team understands that the customer always comes first,†he said.
The concept behind First Round Boba and Crepes is what sets it apart from other eateries in the Salem area. Rather than focusing on traditional French crepes, he specializes in dessert-style crepes that offer a fresh, unexpected twist. “We try to bring new flavors to the table and get creative with our offerings,†he said.
“Success in this business comes from knowing the right people and delivering exceptional customer service,†Peralta noted. While challenges have arisen along the way, including the inevitable learning curve of starting a business, he credits his parents and fiancée for their continued support and guidance.
Peralta has big plans for the future. In the short term, he hopes to have every person in Salem experience one of his crepes and boba drinks. “We want to provide a consistently delightful experience for everyone who walks through our doors,†he said. In the long term, he envisions expanding his brand, potentially opening a new location in Portland to introduce his innovative crepes and boba to an even wider audience.
For Peralta, the journey is just beginning. With a clear focus on creativity, customer service, and community, First Round Boba and Crepes is poised to grow and evolve in the ever-changing restaurant industry.
