Francisco Orihuela Martínez, better known as “Paco, the empanada guy,” is once again trending on social media, but now because he fulfilled his dream of opening his first restaurant, located in Cholula, Puebla.
From the beach to entrepreneurship
It was in 2016 when this young man, just 14 years old, went viral after tourists in Acapulco recorded him selling empanadas, using a captivating and persuasive pitch to achieve his goal: selling every last empanada he carried on his shoulder on a tray.
This unique sales approach even caught the attention of Arturo Elías Ayub, a Mexican businessman, son-in-law of Carlos Slim, and, at the time, one of the sharks on the show Shark Tank Mexico. The businessman offered him a scholarship and invited him to partner with him to sell his empanadas in Sanborns restaurants; however, his stepfather’s opposition led Paco to turn down the opportunity.
‘Las Empanadas de Paco’ is Born
Over the years, and after overcoming controversy, rumors, and personal problems, ‘Paco, the empanada man’ reappeared to announce the opening of his first restaurant, located in the Patio 14 gastronomic corridor, on East 14th Street in San Andrés Cholula, Puebla.
“After so many years shouting ’empanadas, empanadas!’ on the beach… I’m sharing that empanadas are coming to another state for the first time,” wrote Paco on social media. He has added a partner to this new venture and has the support of his wife.
Flavors with History and Tradition
The establishment, called ‘Las Empanadas de Paco,’ offers a wide variety of empanadas: from the traditional ones with ham and cheese, beef, or apple—for those who prefer sweeter flavors—to more exotic ones, such as fish, diet shark, and even one with mole poblano, in honor of the state where he now resides.
“What you are about to taste is not just an empanada, it is the result of a journey with soul, courage, and tradition. Born on the seashore, famous for their flavor and character, Paco’s empanadas arrive today in the heart of Puebla with the same charisma that made them legendary, because here we don’t cook food, we cook history,” reads the menu.
Las Empanadas de Paco serves Tuesday through Sunday, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Prices include $30 pesos per empanada, or a pack of three can be purchased for $80 pesos.
Source: record
