Grubhub and the New York State Latino Restaurant, Bar & Lounge Association (NYSLRBLA) have awarded a total of $100,000 in grants to 10 restaurants across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens. Each recipient of the 2025 Rising Restaurateur Grant will receive $10,000 to support their small business operations, which may include staffing, equipment upgrades, marketing, or other essential needs.
Sandra Jaquez, president of NYSLRBLA, stated: “The New York State Latino Restaurant, Bar & Lounge Association is incredibly excited to celebrate the second year of our partnership with Grubhub. For our city’s small and minority-owned restaurants, the Rising Restaurateur grant program is a vital support that enables them to cover essential expenses, invest in growth, and foster innovation. This funding will provide our restaurants with the opportunity to better serve their communities and support positive change in our industry, creating a multiplier effect that will benefit all New Yorkers.”
An award ceremony was held at Mojitos Restaurant in Queens to honor the grant recipients. Representatives from both organizations recognized the contributions of local independent restaurateurs to New York City’s economy.
Rising Restaurateur is a joint initiative between Grubhub and NYSLRBLA. The program aims to help Latino and minority-owned businesses succeed in the food and beverage sector.
Joshua Bocian, Associate Director of Government Affairs at Grubhub said: “The 2025 Rising Restaurateur grant recipients, like the majority of the restaurants Grubhub serves, are small and medium-sized businesses that play a vital role in neighborhoods and communities across NYC. At Grubhub, we’re committed to uplifting independent restaurants – they’re the heart of our communities – and it’s meaningful for us to help them grow and continue shaping the city’s diverse food scene.”
The following establishments were named as this year’s grant recipients:
Bronx:
– Boca Restaurant and Steakhouse
– El DF Mexican Patio
– Leche y Miel Restaurant
– Lena Trattoria
Brooklyn:
– Carro Café
– Gustoso Restaurant
Manhattan:
– Isla Bonita
– Tiny Tapas and Bites
Queens:
– Estrella Latina Bar and Grill
– Riko Peruvian Cuisine (2 locations)
Grubhub operates as a major online ordering and delivery marketplace in the United States. The company connects customers with local restaurants through its technology platforms. As part of Wonder Group, Grubhub works with over 415,000 merchants in more than 4,000 cities nationwide.
NYSLRBLA is a nonprofit organization supporting Hispanic and minority-owned businesses in commerce—especially within food service—in the tri-state area. The association has over 350 restaurant members ranging from fast-food outlets to gourmet dining establishments.
