Raul Porto Sr., the founder of SoCal’s Cuban staple Porto’s Bakery, has died. He was 92.
The company announced Friday that he died peacefully and surrounded by family earlier this week. Jennifer Wells, a representative for Porto's Bakery, told LAist that Raul Porto Sr. had been battling dementia for a number of years but lived a very full life.
“To all our family, friends, and guests from across our communities: while words cannot fully express our sadness at this time, we want to extend our deepest gratitude for your continued support and all the love and kindness you have shown us throughout the years,” Porto's Bakery said in a statement on Instagram. A post shared by Porto's Bakery & Café (@portosbakery) Porto’s Bakery is famous for their signature cheese rolls, potato balls, fruit tartlets, and a running list of other sweet and savory treats. But the bakery started as a family affair more than 40 years ago when Raul Sr.
and Rosa Porto came to California from Cuba, according to the company. The family started selling cakes to family and friends out of their small home kitchen before opening up the first official store on Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park in 1976, which has since closed. “Through their hard work, humility, and dedication, they transformed a small family endeavor into a cherished community treasure,” Porto’s Bakery said in a statement.
“Known for his humble nature, Raul Sr. balanced his roles as a devoted husband, father, and businessman, ins.
