Sandra

Hello, my name is Sandra.

I am from the Dominican Republic, and this is my story. I was born and raised in Santo Domingo, a city known for its vibrant colors, rich traditions, and delicious cuisine. My childhood was deeply influenced by gastronomy from a very young age. My maternal grandmother taught me everything I know about traditional Dominican cooking. She showed me how food can bring people together, fostering unity and a sense of community.

In 1992, I emigrated to Puerto Rico in search of better opportunities for growth and development. This beautiful island gave me the chance to elevate my culinary knowledge to another level, allowing me to share the traditional food of the Dominican Republic while also broadening my horizons with Puerto Rican cuisine. Continuing my pursuit of growth and seeking more opportunities for myself and my family, I arrived in the United States in 2008. Here, I have faced challenges in further developing my professional skills, but at the same time, I have found an opportunity to share authentic dishes with a broader audience eager to try different flavors.

In May 2024, I made the decision to start my own business because I want people to enjoy multicultural dishes in one place. El Rinconcito Criollo brings the tastes and flavors from my hometown in the Dominican Republic and the experiences I gained during my journey in Puerto Rico. My dream is to create a place where I can bring my culture to life and offer authentic cuisine in Columbus, Ohio. However, to take this project to the next level, I need to invest significantly, and the cost of investment is high. Despite this, my dreams remain strong, and I am determined to move forward.

El Rinconcito Criollo is one of my most ambitious projects. My goal is to offer everyone a unique experience of our traditional dishes and to provide a diverse menu that showcases the best of our culinary heritage.