More than wine and spirits at Los Amigos

Typically, alcohol comes to mind when thinking about a liquor store. But Los Amigos Liquor has much more than beer, wine and spirits.

The store carries the usual alcohol selections, including "the coldest beer in town," as is boasted on their storefront. However, they also carry a variety of grocery items, with staples like bread, cold cuts, milk and coffee, as well as health and beauty products and party supplies.

Store owner Bharpur Singh Brar opened the store in 2005.

Brar first came to Shafter in 1994 and opened the 97 Cent Store on Central Avenue. Brar then went on to open a "dollar store" right down the street. Brar also owns the building next door to Los Amigos, which is home to La Fonda Restaurant.

Brar and his family tried their hand at the restaurant business in 2010, opening Five Star Pizza. The pizza place had video games, a special room for birthday parties and pool tables.

Brar enjoys the community feeling in Shafter, which was one of the main draws when in deciding to put down roots here. "I wanted to open a business that would give the people in Shafter a good store with great prices and would bring jobs. I have brought a lot of jobs to Shafter with the different stores and businesses."

Brar also said he likes to help the community whenever he can. Evidence of that is his yearly Silver Sparkler sponsorship for the annual 3rd of July Fireworks Celebration. Brar and his family help out each year at the event.

When asked what he likes about the community, Brar said, "We really like the people of Shafter and love the small town feel." He claims Shafter is the best place he has found to raise a family.

Though Brar owns other businesses, he is only currently operating Los Amigos. He has plans to open another business, but details are still being finalized.