BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Kiosko Latino restaurant on Buffalo's West Side is not just surviving, but thriving during this pandemic. That success has led the owner to make a big move for her business.
“It’s something that will stay in the family forever, you know? It’s a legacy for my children and my grandchildren,” said Maria Rodriguez, Owner.
She offers Puerto Rican and Mexican cuisine. Her Puerto Rican recipes were passed down from her mother and grandmother. She picked up Mexican recipes after living in California.
"Chimichangas, quesadillas, enchiladas...That’s how Kiosko Latino became what it is today, a mix of Puerto Rican and Mexican food," said Rodriguez.
When Kiosko first opend back in 2017, she started small, cooking her meals in her kitchen and selling them in the West Side Bazaar.
“We would take food over there back and forth, it was crazy. A lot of work," said Rodriguez.
But after three years and with help from WEDI, a local non-profit focused on economic growth, she’s been able to grow her business and now open her own storefront at 345 West Ferry.
"I’ve been working with Maria for a long time. She’s one of those people who will not give up so it doesn’t surprise me that she’s gotten to this point,” said Bob Doyle, Community Development Director, at WEDI.
She’s turned her passion for food and her culture into an award-winning restaurant that serves the west side community, all during a global pandemic.
"Regardless of the pandemic, we are surviving and we are going forward so I thank God for that. Feel free to come, pass by or call and we’ll be happy to serve you," said Rodriguez.
Kiosko Latino is currently offering takekout only: curbside pickup and delivery. You can find them at their website and on Grubhub.
They're open 11:30-6pm Tuesday-Thursday and 11:30-7pm Friday and Saturday.
