An authentic Puerto Rican café is coming soon to Myrtle Beach.
In a recent Facebook update, owners Gerald and Hilda Sunagel announced that Cocina Amore Café, which translates to “Kitchen of Love,” is preparing to open in the spring of 2025 at an undisclosed address.
“Our mission is to bring you the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine with a modern twist, all while focusing on sustainability and supporting local ingredients,” the husband-and-wife team shared in the update.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Hilda moved to the U.S. in 2001 with her young daughter, determined to create a better life for her family. According to a LinkedIn post from Gerald, she worked tirelessly to pay for her education and never abandoned her dreams—even when she had to put them on hold.
Drawing from recipes passed down through generations, Cocina Amore will offer both classic Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo balls (fried plantain bites), quesitos (cream cheese pastries), and Mallorca bread (sweet rolls), as well as inventive creations like the Mallorca Pressed Sandwich—featuring ham, cheddar cheese, and a hard-fried egg on soft Mallorca bread.
The café will also showcase a carefully curated selection of coffee, chosen to pair perfectly with the Puerto Rican dishes for the ultimate breakfast experience.
At the heart of Cocina Amore’s philosophy is a commitment to sustainability. The café aims to reduce food waste, prioritize eco-friendly practices, source ingredients locally, and create a warm, welcoming environment where customers can enjoy food that celebrates Puerto Rican culture and flavors.
Cocina Amore Café is offering holiday catering for small events ahead of its spring launch.
“With every dish, we aim to bring the warmth and joy of Puerto Rican culture to Myrtle Beach,” the Cocina Amore website states.
