Raul Porto Sr., the co-founder of Porto’s Bakery and Cafe, died on Wednesday, May 22. He was 92.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Porto’s Bakery founder and beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Raul Porto Sr.,” read a statement his family posted to the bakery’s official Instagram page. “He passed away peacefully on Wednesday surrounded by his loving family.”
Raul Porto Sr., arrived in California from Cuba with his wife, Rosa, more than 40 years ago. The couple opened their first Porto’s Bakery, which focused on Cuban pastries and bakes, on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles’s Echo Park neighborhood. Raul, who worked at other bakeries during the nascent period of his namesake eatery, was able to join full-time a few years later.
SEE ALSO: Porto’s Bakery and Cafe founder Rosa Porto dies
The post continued, “Raul Sr. was an extraordinary man who, alongside his wife Rosa, founded Porto’s Bakery from their home kitchen, selling cakes and pastries to friends and family. Raul Sr. would assist whenever he could, even while working at another local bakery. After several years, he was able to join Rosa full-time, dedicating himself to growing their business. Through their hard work, humility, and dedication, they transformed a small family endeavor into a cherished community treasure.”
Rosa Porto passed away in 2019.
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Over the last four decades, the Porto family built a bakery mainstay with locations in Northridge, Buena Park, Burbank, Downey, Glendale and West Covina. For the grand opening of its West Covina location in 2019, celebrities like actor Andy Garcia and trumpeter Arturo Sandoval made an appearance for the big day, as well as hundreds of fans who lined up around the block to get their hands on the bakery’s cakes, pastries, baked goods and sandwiches.
The couple retired several years ago to focus on their family and reap the rewards of relaxation after building a successful family-run enterprise, according to the Instagram post. The Porto family continues to run Porto’s Bakery and Cafe locations.
In response to the news of Raul’s death, well wishers added fond memories of the patriarch. “I remember going to the Glendale Porto’s when it was half its size and he was always working the register,” wrote Noelia Gonzalez on the Porto’s Instagram post. “And then later when it grew he’d stand in the doorway between the two big areas watching and saying hello. As a fellow Cuban, I’m proud of your family and all they’ve achieved thru hard work, sacrifice, commitment, dedication, and Love. Your parents set a wonderful example for all!” And musician Eric Bobo, of Cypress Hill fame, commented, “I’ve been going there since I was very young with my mom. He is an Icon!!! He will be missed.”
Raul Porto Sr. is survived by his children, Beatriz, Raul Jr., and Margarita.
