Hispanic Heritage Month runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 to highlight the independence of Mexico, Chile and five other Latin American countries, as well as DĂa de la Raza in mid-October.
As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month coverage, News4JAX is recognizing those in the Hispanic community locally who own businesses!
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With all the delicious varieties of flavors in the Hispanic community, it’s not surprising that the vast majority of businesses our viewers nominated for this list are restaurants.
We’ve broken them down by cuisine, so why not enjoy a flavor adventure of the next four weeks as we celebrate and support our local businesses!
And we’ll keep adding to this list throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, so if you know of a Hispanic-owned local business in Northeast Florida or Southeast Georgia that deserves some recognition, share the details with us in the form below:
Caribbean
Cafe Key West Food Truck
Bahamian, Puerto Rican, Cuban & Cajun cuisine made the Conch way from scratch!
Website: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092999757767
El Taino Restaurant
Cuban and Puerto Rican Food: Two cultures linked through history and traditions, in a cozy and family-oriented atmosphere.
Location: 4347 University Blvd. S #5, Jacksonville, FL 32216
Website: eltainojax.yolasite.com
Latin House Grill Jax
Casual, colorful restaurant & lounge offering a menu of Latin dishes, plus karaoke & dancing. Caribbean cuisine is a fusion of traditions brought from many different countries when they came to the Caribbean.
Location: 5584 Timuquana Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
Website: www.latinhousegrilljax.com
Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge and Kitchen
Known for its inventive menu, Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge & Kitchen offers an eclectic dining experience where bold Latin-inspired flavors and craft cocktails take center stage.
Location: 200 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, Florida 32080
Website: oddbirdsbar.com
Puerto Plata
Generous portions of simple Caribbean cuisine are served at this comfy option with outside seating.
Location: 2045 Bayview Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210
Website: puertoplatarestaurant.com
Central American
Empanada’s Factory Latin Fusion
Latin American–fusion cuisine, breakfast & coffee offered in an informal restaurant.
Location: 8060 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Website: empanadasfactoryjax.com
Jacksonville Coffee Company
Owned by Jose Parada, a native of El Salvador, the coffee is locally roasted in Jacksonville.
Locations (all in Jacksonville): 12620 Beach Blvd. #7, 32246 (Kernan Square); 8221 Southside Blvd., Suite 7, 32256 (Baymeadows); 413 Town Center Pkwy, Suite 221, 32246 (Town Center); 6 East Bay St., 32202 (Downtown).
Website: www.jacksonvillecoffeecompany.com
La Sabrosa Grocery & Restaurant
Pupusas, burritos, tacos, beans and rice star at this simple spot featuring Honduran and other Latin fare to eat in or grab and go at two locations in Clay County.
Locations: 2590 County Rd 220, Middleburg, FL 32068; 1939 Mound St, Orange Park, FL 32073
Website: www.facebook.com/LaSabrosaFoodProducts/
Los Andes Restaurant
Empanadas, rotisserie chicken, and other Latin American comfort food served in a relaxed setting.
Locations: 335 Marsh Landing Parkway, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250; 10916 Atlantic Blvd Unit 8, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Website: losandesjax.com
Colombian
De Leon Latin Cocina
Family-owned restaurant serving Colombian cuisine such as bandeja paisa in a casual atmosphere.
Location: Inside the Ponce St. Augustine Hotel at 1111 N Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Website: deleoncocina.lacocinarestaurants.com
El Meson Colombiano
A small family-owned food truck that serves authentic Colombian dishes made with fresh ingredients from traditional recipes. From crispy empanadas to flavorful arepas, the food truck brings the true taste of Colombia to you.
Location: 1975 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073
Website: www.facebook.com/people/El-Meson-Colombiano/61557177780544/
La Cocina de Abuela
This Colombian restaurant has a festive and warm ambience inside with meals served in assembly line style.
Location: 125 NW 23rd Ave., Ste 9, Gainesville, FL 32609
Website: www.facebook.com/abuelasgainesville/?locale=es_LA
Salento
Relaxed Colombian restaurant serving steak, arepas & traditional appetizers, plus beer & wine.
Location: 11018 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257
Website: salentosteakhouse.com
Guanabana
Founded by owners from Colombia and Venezuela, Guanabana has brought the tropical flavors of Latin America, like guanabana, passion fruit, and pineapple, to Northeast Florida for more than a decade, offering smoothies, açaà bowls, ice pops, and homemade ice creams.
Location: 7540 Gate Parkway Unit 107, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Website: guanabanajax.com,
Cuban
90 Miles from Cuba
Sandwiches, plantains & other Cuban cuisine in a down-to-earth locale, plus breakfast & take-out.
Location: 9938 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246
Website: www.instagram.com/official90milescubancafe/?hl=en
1928 Cuban Bistro
Vibrant colors and bold flavors come together to create an unforgettable dining experience that is a lively celebration of Cuban cuisine with locations across the Jacksonville area.
Locations: 3928 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32217; 160 Shops Blvd., St. Johns, FL 32259; 6331 Roosevelt Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32244; 1500 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250; 122 South Eighth St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034; 1831 Golden Eagle Way, Fleming Island, FL 32003; 3563 Philips Highway, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Website: www.1928bistro.com
The Cuban Place
Experience the vibrant tastes of Cuba at The Cuban Place, where they serve authentic dishes bursting with flavor. Join them for a culinary journey you won’t forget!
Location: 9850 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32257
Website: thecubanplaces.com
El Mofongo
Cuban restaurant and bakery located on Jacksonville’s Westside. Serves breakfast, lunch and coffee.
Location: 6011 103rd St. #11, Jacksonville, FL 32210
Website: elmofongojacksonville.com
Havana Jax Cafe
This low-key eatery presents a familiar Cuban-American menu, happy hour & an adjacent dance club.
Location: 2578 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207
Website: havanajax.com
Hola Cuban Cafe
Colorful Cuban eatery serving breakfast & pressed sandwiches, with a dog-friendly patio.
Location: 31 S 5th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Website: www.holacubancafe.com
La Bodega Original
Laid-back eatery offering various versions of the Cuban sandwich, plus empanadas.
Location: 4541 Shirley Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32210
Website: www.labodegaoriginal.com
Mambos Cuban Cafe
Family-owned and operated cafe with culinary delights prepared on a daily basis. “We want our customers to feel as if they are right in the heart of Cuba every time they walk through the doors.”
Location: 13770 Beach Blvd, Suite 9, Jacksonville, FL 32224
Website: mamboscubancafe.com
Paladar Cuban Eatery & Bakery
Relaxed cafe with a vibrant vibe, serving Cuban breakfast bites, sandwiches, pastries and coffee.
Location: 5575 A1A S #112, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Website: paladarcubaneatery.com
Dominican
La Gran Parada
Counter-service spot for Dominican dishes such as mofongo and oxtail, plus live music.
Location: 5266 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Website: lagranparadajax.com
Mexican
Don Patron Mexican Grill
Lively and welcoming atmosphere where every corner echoes with the spirit of Mexico, offering casual lunch, a family dinner, or a festive celebration location.
Locations: 96098 Lofton Square Ct, Yulee, FL 32097; 1519 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach FL , 32034
Website: donpatronmexicangrillfl.com
Dos Amigos
Carniceria and Mexican grocery store known for tortillas and produce, plus horchata and margaritas.
Location: 10095 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246
Website: dosamigosmarket.com
El Agave Azul
Started from a local food truck, El Agave Azule offers unfussy classic Mexican street fare such as tacos & burritos at two locations.
Locations: 8763 Old Kings Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32217 (Baymeadows); 229 3rd St Neptune Beach, Florida 32266 (Neptune Beach)
Website: elagaveazuljax.com
El Potro Mexican Restaurant
Humble, colorful Mexican eatery with a menu of traditional dishes, buffet offerings & beer. The Gonzalez family has owned and operated the Westside location since 1999.
Location: 7200 Normandy Blvd #12, Jacksonville, FL 32205
Website: www.elpotromex28.com
La Casa Leon
Family-owned eatery with a casual vibe, serving familiar Mexican eats such as burritos, tacos and enchiladas.
Location: 2260 Mayport Road, Jacksonville, FL 32233
Website: lacasaleonfl.com/index.php
La Catrina Tacos & Tequlia Bar
Situated at three locations in the Jacksonville area, La Catrina boasts a tantalizing array of Mexican-inspired cuisine and cocktails.
Locations: 2710 Blanding Blvd. #16, Middleburg, 32068; 155 Hampton Point Dr. #10, St. Augustine, 32092; 12400 Yellow Bluff Road, Jacksonville, 32226
Website: www.lacatrinalovers.com
La Michoacana Taqueria
Informal spot for tacos served with toppings as well as other traditional Mexican fare, such as menudo and al pastor.
Location: 9827 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246
Website: lamichoacanataqueriafl.com
La Nopalera (Jacksonville)
One of the most popular Mexican restaurant chains in Jacksonville La Nopalera offers dinners, warm hospitality, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Locations: 725 Skymarks Dr., Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL, 32218 (Skymark); 1434 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL (San Marco); 4530 Saint Johns Ave., Jacksonville, FL, 32210 (Saint Johns); 13799 Beach Blvd suite 102, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (Beach Boulevard)
Website: www.lanop.com
La Nopalera (Clay, St. Johns counties)
Offers a connection to Mexico with only the freshest ingredients that remind the owners of their hometown.
Locations: 9734 Crosshill Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32222 (Oakleaf Town Center); 1571 County Rd 220, Orange Park, FL 32222 (Fleming Plaza); 12640 Bartram Park Blvd. #5, Jacksonville, FL 32258 (Bartram); 111 Bartram Oaks Walk, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 (Julington Creek)
Website: www.eatatlanopalera.com
Las Tapatias Mexican Restaurant
Down-to-earth outpost for Mexican standards such as tacos, burritos & combination plates.
Location: 9974 Old Baymeadows Rd # 3, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Website: www.lastapatiasofjax.com
Los 3 Mariachis
Known for its abundance of vegetarian options and casual atmosphere, perfect for families with children.
Location: 3861 Main St., Folkston, GA 31537
Los Portales
​Los Portales Mexican Grill proudly offers a very wide selection of Mexican dishes, including its famous fajitas, enchiladas, Mexican-style tacos and “the biggest vegetarian menu in the whole city.”
Location: 2245 County Road 210, St. Augustine, FL, 32092
Website: www.losportalesgrills.com
Lupita’s
Compact, unpretentious restaurant serving ample portions of hearty, homestyle Mexican dishes.
Location: 1024 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211
Website: www.instagram.com/lupitasmexicanrestaurant904/
Mi Veracruz
A hidden gem in Jacksonville, Mi Veracruz offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a lively atmosphere.
Location: 7001 Merrill Road, Jacksonville, FL 32277
Website: miveracruzfl.com
Ole Mexican Restaurant
Everyday Mexican plates, plus margaritas & beer, served in roomy, easygoing surroundings.
Location: 9921 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Website: olemexjax.com
Paleteria Magia Fresca
Handcrafted Mexican paletas, artisanal ice cream, and authentic snacks in Jacksonville.
Location: 5810 St Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Website: www.pmagiafrescajax.com
Pepe’s Hacienda and Restaurant
Mexican restaurant and supermarket with two locations in Jacksonville that serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Locations: 3615 Dupont Ave., Suite 900, Jacksonville, FL 32217; 9239 Merrill Road, Unit 1, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Website: pepeshaciendajax.com
Pepper’s Cocina Mexicana
Pepper’s is a family-owned, authentic Mexican restaurant with three locations throughout Jacksonville, featuring fresh food daily, an extensive tequila collection and a full bar.
Locations: 530 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034; 1560 Business Center Dr., Ste. 14, Fleming Island, FL 32003; 55 Harper Ln, St. Johns, FL 32259
Website: www.pepperscocina.com
Playa Chac-Mool
Authentic Mexican dishes, particularly the cuisine of Yucatan, Mexico, and live music in a homey atmosphere. Family-owned local business since 2008.
Location: 105 D St., St. Augustine, FL 32080
Website: www.playachacmoolmex.com
Raices Fast Casual Mexican
Meaning “roots,” Raices celebrates family, heritage, and the rich culinary traditions of Mexican cuisine. Created by the same family behind the beloved Pepper’s Mexican Cocina, Raices offers a fresh fast-casual dining experience.
Location: 13820 Old St. Augustine Rd., Suite 125, Jacksonville, Florida 32258
Website: www.raices-mex.com
Senoritas Mexican Kitchen
Relaxed eatery dishing up traditional Mexican dishes such as burritos, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and more.
Location: 6426 Bowden Road, Suite 206, Jacksonville, FL 32216
Website: www.senoritasjax.com
Taco Libre
The family-owned restaurant with locations in Jacksonville Beach and St. Augustine has a passion for authentic Mexican cuisine made from recipes passed down through generations.
Locations: 14286 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 (Jacksonville Beach); 2600 N Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 (Downtown St. Augustine); 1001 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 (St. Augustine Beach)
Website: www.tacolibrefl.com
Tacoteca Jax
Scratch Mexican BBQ taqueria farmer’s market and festival pop-up that offers catering.
Website: www.instagram.com/tacoteca.jax
Taqueria Cinco
Mexican street food in a laid-back neighborhood haunt with eclectic decor & a cheery backyard patio.
Location: 809 Lomax St., Jacksonville, FL 32204
Website: www.taqueria5points.com
Peruvian
Sabor Mix Ceviche & Grill
A menu crafted by talented chefs, bringing the rich flavors and traditions of Peruvian cuisine to Jacksonville.
Location: 11757 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246
Website: www.facebook.com/p/Sabor-mix-ceviche-Grill-100083815707296/
Puerto Rican
El Chinchorro Sport Bar
Serves a variety of dishes at the Beach Boulevard Flea Market made from grandma’s authentic recipes.
Location: 11041 Beach Blvd., Suite RS2, Jacksonville, FL 32246
Website: www.facebook.com/p/El-Chinchorro-Sport-Bar-100095519534911/
El Pegao Restaurant
Owned and operated by Chef Juan Alameda Rodriguez, who grew up in the vibrant communities of Sabana Eneas and La Parguera, Puerto Rico, the restaurant is a celebration of authentic flavors and family traditions.
Location: 2177 Kingsley Ave. #13, Orange Park, FL 32073
Website: www.elpegao.com
Flavorikan
Casual restaurant offering Puerto Rican comfort food, including empanadas and alcapurrias, plus beer and wine.
Location: 1803 E Duval St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Website: flavorikan.com
La Amapola Cafe
A Puerto Rican bakery and cafe focused on sharing the sweet treats and flavors of the Island of Enchantment with delicious coffee, pastries, breakfast, lunch specials and specialty cakes.
Location: 4010 U.S. 1 #103, St. Augustine, FL 32086
Website: www.laamapolasta.com
Latin Creations
Traditional Latin sandwiches, pastries, plates, & drinks in a relaxed setting with modern interiors.
Location: 3505 St Johns Bluff Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32224
Website: www.latin-creations.com
Palermo Puerto Rican Kitchen
Relaxed, family-owned restaurant featuring traditional, homemade Puerto Rican dishes in snug surroundings.
Location: 556 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073
Website: palermopuertoricankitchen.com
Venezuelan
Arepa Please
A vibrant and artsy Venezuelan restaurant where culinary delights and creative expression come together in Riverside.
Locations: 469 Atlantic Blvd., Unit 13, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 & 474 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32202
Website: www.arepaplease.com
Arepas Truck
Every bite at Arepas Truck is a taste of Venezuelan street food.
Location: 10965 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246
Website: arepastruck.toast.site
Avila Bakery & Cafe
Breakfast, dessert, pastry and coffee shop specializing in Venezuelan food.
Location: 922 Blanding Blvd unit 4, Orange Park, FL 32065
Website: www.avilabakerycafe.com
La Nota
La Nota Restaurant has offered a unique blend of Venezuelan flavors and locally inspired dishes since 2016.
Location: 3809 Southside Service Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216
Website: lanotajax.com
Other Hispanic-owned local businesses
- Allen Children Center (Day care): 1804 St. Johns Bluff Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32246; allenchildrencenter.com
- ARICA Roofing & Construction LLC: aricaconstruction.com
- Aura of Beauty (Dominican lash and makeup artist): 9889 San Jose Blvd #7, Jacksonville, FL 32257; auraofbeauty.glossgenius.com
- Bella Pop Jax (Custom balloon decor): www.bellapopjax.com
- Bueno Boat Works (Marine service company): 14603 Beach Blvd #2100, Jacksonville, FL 32250; www.facebook.com/Buenoboatworks/
- Cleansed Hair Studio (Hair salon): 1225 Atlantic Blvd., Neptune Beach, FL 32266; www.facebook.com/cleansed904/
- G & O Residential Renovations (Remodeling and HVAC): sites.google.com/view/garciarenovations/home
- JeePee’s Spaw (Pet grooming): 518 Hollyberry Ln Suite 101, Orange Park, FL 32065; jeepeespaw.com
- The Law Place of Jacksonville, Anthony Paul Penoso, PA: 8081 Normandy Blvd Suite 9, Jacksonville, FL 32221; www.thelawplacejax.com
- Miami Pro Audio (Custom car audio shop): 15137 N Main St # 2, Jacksonville, FL 32218; miamiproaudio.com
- Olivia’s Gardens Landscape Maintenance: jose_e_hernandez@live.com
- Optivo Group (Property management): 4237 Salisbury Road Bldg 3 Suite 309, Jacksonville, FL 32216; optivogroup.net
- Pinnacle Communications Group (Security solutions): 7949 Atlantic Blvd #104, Jacksonville, FL 32211; pincomgroup.com
- Quality HVAC Contractors: 7162 Overland Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL, 32244; www.facebook.com/p/Quality-Hvac-Contractors-61552192803606
- Venezuela Marka Foundation (Traditional Venezuelan dance lessons): 8380 Baymeadows Road, Suite 2, Jacksonville, FL 32256; www.venezuelamarka.org
- Welcome Homecare (Home healthcare agency): 9570 Regency Square Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32225; welcomehomecare.com