Our Story

Welcome to Abuela's Kitchen!

Our journey began with a shared love for cooking and a deep passion for bringing authentic flavors to our community. Each member of our team has a unique story and background, contributing to the rich tapestry that is Abuela's Kitchen.

Gaetano - A chef by vocation, Gaetano's culinary journey spans across Peru, Ecuador, and Mexico. With years of experience and a career shift from HR, he discovered his true calling when he migrated from Venezuela in 2016. His expertise and dedication shape the heart of our kitchen.

Angely - Trained as a chef but unable to work in her homeland due to lack of opportunities, Angely is now the proud mom of Noah and life partner of Gaetano. She leads our kitchen with her exceptional preparations and is the creative force behind our beloved empanadas.

Andrea - A law school graduate from Venezuela, Andrea faced political challenges that prevented her from practicing law. Now residing in Urbana, she brings her versatile skills to our team, handling various tasks from waitressing to food preparation and dishwashing.

Matt and Lizi - Visionaries with years of experience in management and marketing, Matt and Lizi's passion for cooking is evident in every dish on our menu. Their expertise and enthusiasm infuse our kitchen with innovation and love.

This is us! We are Abuela's Kitchen, and we look forward to many more years of sharing our love of food with you. Cheers!