During 2025, the “Apoya lo Local” or “Support Local” series highlighted the effort, perseverance, and ability to reinvent businesses that are an essential part of our community. This initiative was created with the purpose of giving visibility to merchants, services, and entrepreneurs who have served the community for years, have adapted to change, and today need public support and solidarity more than ever. Through this coverage, we drew closer to their stories, recognized their daily work, and reinforced the importance of supporting our own. Let’s continue supporting our local merchants and entrepreneurs so that 2026 is filled with opportunities, growth, and great achievements for each of them.
Encanto Kicks & Coffee: coffee, sneakers, and Puerto Rican pride Located at 2110 E Norris Street, this establishment combines coffee, urban fashion, and Puerto Rican roots. Founded by Luis Quiles, who arrived from Puerto Rico at a young age, the business was born from his passion for sneakers and his entrepreneurial vision of integrating coffee as a sustainable model. Encanto stands out for celebrating Latino identity, offering a welcoming environment, and serving as a community gathering place. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Instagram: @encanto.phl
Centro Musical de Filadelfia: A cultural icon Since 1960, this space has been a meeting point for lovers of tropical music and a symbol of community identity and memory. Located at 5th Street and Lehigh Avenue, the institution continues to promote Latino culture under the leadership of Puerto Rican entrepreneur Reinaldo Meléndez-Martínez, who has kept its legacy alive since 2014 by offering music, instruments, and traditional items. Address: 464 W Lehigh Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19133 | Phone: (215) 425-7050
La Bodega de la 5: Flavor and community This business has become a hallmark for the Latino community in the 5th street commercial corridor. Founded in 2009 by Edward Bonilla, it evolved from a small family bodega into an establishment offering a wide variety of traditional products and essential services. La Bodega is a symbol of the resilience of Latino entrepreneurship and serves as a gathering space for those seeking a taste of home. Address: 4501 N 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19140 | Phone: (215) 455-0887
Helados Chupi Chupi: Puerto Rican family flavor This Puerto Rican family business has won over the community with its artisanal popsicles, natural juices, and snacks. It was born in 2018 in the kitchen of Yaralexis Encarnación (Yara) and her father Alexis, when a homemade recipe became an entrepreneurial dream. Its family spirit and the love put into every product keep Puerto Rican traditions alive. Social media: @heladoschupipaletas (Facebook) | @chupiheladoschupi (Instagram and TikTok)
Oblea Fusion: Reinvented colombian tradition Colombian entrepreneur Julián Ramos has taken the traditional Colombian oblea to another level with a proposal that combines tradition and innovation. With artisanal fillings and flavors, the business has attracted not only the Latino community but also people from diverse cultures across Philadelphia. Instagram: oblea_fusion | Phone: (256) 800-0838
Vickie’s Sweets: Sweetness and perseverance This local business, founded by Vikiana Pérez, is inspired by traditional Dominican baking learned at home. Born from a family tradition, it reflects how passion, dedication, and perseverance can turn a dream into reality and serve the community with pride. Vickie’s Sweets. Instagram: Vickies_sweets. Phone/WhatsApp: 267-939-0341 (WhatsApp is the preferred option).
From here we say: Support Local!