Chef G began his journey to opening his restaurant, La Cocina De TiTi, in the West Side Bazaar, a small business incubator where aspiring entrepreneurs incubate business concepts and learn the fundamentals of running a business.
He was there for seven months before moving to his own brick-and-mortar building. Located in Lackawanna, the authentic Puerto Rican restaurant officially opened its doors on August 29, 2026.
“For me, being here just means happiness to my whole team, to La Cocina De TiTi, and especially to the Hispanic community,” Chef G said. “Puerto Rico is not only known for yellow rice and Pastelillos. I want to bring the gastronomy, the culture of Puerto Rico, and elevate it. I want to have these opportunities to showcase that Puerto Rico’s got more to offer.”
Chef G attended the Taste of Buffalo festival as a spectator two years ago, dreaming of getting a chance to be a part of the event. Staying determined, he continued to work hard, eventually making that dream, and more, come true.
Dreaming big has been a huge part of his life since he can remember. Taking inspiration from the Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny, Chef G is proud to be Hispanic, hoping to share his culture with the rest of the world by way of his food.
“It’s a heavy weight that I’m carrying on my shoulders,” Chef G said. “I’m not only representing my restaurant, my family. I’m representing Puerto Rico. I’m representing every single small business that is out there trying to make it, to have their own space, and be able to make progress in life to elevate their restaurant, to make sure that they have customers.”
