In 2013, Alexis traveled to Puerto Rico for the first time and instantly fell in love — not just with the island, but with its people, culture, and food. He bought a one-way ticket and moved to PR, where he met Juan, a restaurant manager born and raised in Toa Alta, Puerto Rico. It was love at first sight. Looking for opportunities to grow, they moved to Phoenix in the fall of 2014.

It didn't take long before they were homesick—not just for the island, but for its food. Authentic Puerto Rican flavors were nowhere to be found, so Juan took matters into his own hands. What you see today began humbly, in their home kitchen, long before the food truck or restaurant. He called his family back home, collecting treasured recipes—from sofrito to pernil—and began cooking.

The moment those aromas filled their home, they knew they had something special. They started small: Juan cooked lunch specials, and Alexis made deliveries to homes, offices, and schools. The duo packed everything into a Honda Civic and served meals to friends, family, and anyone hungry for real Puerto Rican food.

For nearly two years, they did it all —saving every dollar until, in 2017, they purchased their food truck. Phoenix Coqui officially hit the streets and found a home at The Rock on 7th Ave and Indian School. At their grand opening that summer, the line wrapped around the block, and they sold out in just two hours. That momentum carried them forward, growing steadily through the years.

Then came 2020. Like many others, they had to shut down. When they reopened in June—right in the middle of the Phoenix summer—everything had changed. With bars closed, their nighttime schedule shifted to daytime. But that pivot proved to be a blessing. Their high-quality food, quick service, and outdoor, low-contact setup made them THE go-to spot. It was a turning point.

That growth gave them the confidence to dream bigger. In February 2022, they opened their brick-and-mortar restaurant, just a block from their original parking spot.

Many know them from their food truck days, but few know the journey began even earlier—from scratch, in their home kitchen. Today, we invite you to experience the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico and make yourself at home with us at Phoenix Coqui.