PAPI’S ORIGINATED WITH A FAMILY RECIPE, A DREAM, AND THE WILLINGNESS TO RISK EVERYTHING.
This is our story.
The Background
In 1980’s Cuba, most people lived in poverty and there was a U.S. led embargo against the country. Food rationing was tightened and many basic goods and services were restricted. People who did not have families sending money suffered, and there was little hope in sight.
The Dream
In spite of anti-American propaganda, Reynaldo “Rey” Regalado and his father, Rey Sr., still saw it as the land of opportunity. Rey Sr. believed his family recipes could make Cuban a big hit in America, and Rey Jr. wanted to open a business. The two envisioned themselves sharing the delectable tastes of east Cuba with the U.S.
The Escape
By 1990, Rey Jr. knew that he had to act quickly. At great risk, he trained every day for the approximately 5-mile swim to the safety of the U.S. Marine base at Guantanamo Bay. A few months later, a fisherman who also wished to leave the country approached Rey with a life-changing proposition: the man has access to a boat. They devised a plan for Rey, his childhood friend, and the fisherman's family to make an escape. On November 18, 1990, under the cover of darkness and without goodbyes, the 13 refugees went to the beach at Santiago de Cuba. They made the harrowing 4-hour journey to freedom, huddled in the belly of a 35-foot fishing boat that had been “borrowed” from the Cuban government. With nothing but the clothes on his back and his family recipes, Rey Jr. was one step closer to the dream.
The Result
It took 9 years of struggle and sacrifice before Rey saw his family again, but he persevered. By 2002, Rey was bringing the tastes of Cuba to Americans. He also became a proud U.S. citizen. Sadly, Rey Sr. died of cancer in December of 2002. Papi’s, Spanish for “Daddy’s,” is named for, and dedicated to Rey Sr.’s memory. It is a place for the celebration of bravery, ambition, and most of all, freedom.
Awards & Recognitions
Foursquare: The 15 Best Places for Sandwiches in Atlanta
USA Today: Authentic Cuban food across America
Tripadvisor:
Restaurantes de comida latinoamericana en Atlanta
GBJ: Winner of Georgia Business Journal’s - Best Caribbean Restaurants
Hiplatina: 10 Incredible Cuban Restaurants in the United States
The Infatuation: 15 Best Restaurants At Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
Sports Teller: Top 10 Falcons 2023 Foods at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
