Ay Papa Que Rico is a Latin restaurant that serves a variety of Cuban, Mexican, Salvadorian, and Central American food. A young boy named Chris “Toby” Rodriguez opened the restaurant in 2009.
Toby came to the United States on Nov. 21, 1966 with his family. His family was fleeing from the oppression of their homeland, Cuba. Rodriguez’s family knew that they would never see Cuba again, so his mom had told him as the plane lifted off, “Look, because you will never see her again.”
Knowing that he would have opportunities in America, Rodriguez said to his mother, “Opportunity finds those that seek it, and luck belongs to those who work hard for it.”
As Rodriguez worked hard for the American dream, he was able to graduate as a mechanical engineer from California State University, Northridge. He was successful in finding a career in home building and construction.
Sadly, Rodriguez experienced the financial crash in 2008-2009. This wiped out all his life’s work. Rodriguez was devastated to have his dreams flushed away but found a new opportunity in a small broken-down coffee shop.
Rodriguez embarked on an opening day for his restaurant, Ay Papa Que Rico. With no experience in the food industry, he took a leap of faith and landed in success. The first ever location opened in Van Nuys, CA, but the business has now branched out into seven different locations.
All of the restaurants are located in California, more specifically in Van Nuys, Arleta, Sun Valley, Canoga Park, Palmdale, Bakersfield, and Hollywood.
The restaurant has a beautiful history and amazing food. The Cuban Sandwiches are to die for, with flavors that melt in your mouth. In my opinion, the sandwiches are more flavorful and more authentic than Porto’s. Not only are the Cuban sandwiches amazing, but the restaurant’s chicken is juicy and has an impeccable taste. The menu has a lot to offer with affordable prices.
So, if you are ever by any of these locations, look around for Ay Papa Que Rico, because their food is something you don’t want to miss.
