By: Destiney Denson
Soon after SomiSomi opened in Granada Hills on June 5, customers lined up around the building for the Korean dessert chain’s signature fish-shaped waffles and soft-serve ice cream.
The turnout created an immediate challenge for employees at the new Chatsworth St. location. At its busiest, the line stretched in front of neighboring restaurants, so workers had to reorganize where customers waited.
“There was a point where our line was so long that it was blocking Zankou Chicken and The Habit, so we had to move the line to start from the Sul & Beans’ entrance, though it was still a long line,” SomiSomi worker Danica Rivera said.
SomiSomi is best known for ah-boong, a fish-shaped waffle cone filled with soft serve ice cream and decorated with toppings. The shop also serves taiyaki, warm fish-shaped waffles filled with options such as Nutella, custard, and cheese.
According to Rivera, cookies and cream has been the store’s most popular soft-serve flavor, sometimes selling out during busy times. Nutella and custard are among the most frequently ordered taiyaki fillings, although Rivera has a different favorite.
“Personally, the cheese one is my favorite because it tastes like grilled cheese,” Rivera said.
The crowds have required employees to work quickly while continuing to communicate with one another. Workers smile as they see how kids get excited while picking their toppings. For Rivera, adjusting to the rush has also helped her develop skills she can use beyond the shop.
“I learned to stay calm and efficient, and how to communicate and collaborate diligently,” Rivera said. “I think the biggest surprise is how much I’ve grown in these areas, and it’s something that keeps motivating me to come back for another shift and continue improving.”
For SomiSomi’s employees, the store’s arrival has meant more than serving a popular dessert. It has also meant learning to handle long lines, sold-out flavors, and the demands of working at one of Granada Hills’ newest businesses.
