Casandra Flores said it was her grandmother who was the inspiration for Abuelita Coco, the first Mexican vegan cafe to open in Oak Lawn.
This is the first business venture for Flores, who said it has been a labor of love to get this cafe off the ground. She is joined in this opportunity by her sister, Ariana Flores, who serves as her partner, and other family members.
The grand opening of Abuelita Coco, 4821 W. 95th St., took place the morning of March 5 with great enthusiasm. A large crowd attended the grand opening, which began with a celebration of Mexican culture.
The event was coordinated through the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce and many members were present for the grand opening. Trustee Paul Mallo (3rd), whose district includes the new restaurant, filled in for Mayor Terry Vorderer, who was unable to attend.
“Speaking for the mayor, we welcome you to the village and wish you the best of success,” Mallo said.
Casandra Flores said her dream was to open this restaurant as a tribute to her grandmother, Maria Del Socorro Serna, who was affectionately known as Coco. Abuelita is the Spanish word for grandmother.
“She loved unconditionally, and every meal she prepared was infused with thought, intention and love,” Casandra said about her grandmother, who died 14 years ago. “But her spirit is still here.”
Casandra was born in Mexico but arrived in the United States with her family when she was 5. She said that she is part of the American dream and has been an Oak Lawn resident for 28 years.
A graduate of Oak Lawn Community High School, Casandra said the restaurant will focus on healthy alternatives. Breakfasts will feature gorditas, meatless breakfast burritos, avocado toast and Koko Kai yogurt, featuring probiotic rich coconut sweetened with maple syrup, granola and seasonal fruit. A variety of smoothies will be offered, along with various fruit-flavored acai bowls, and lattes and coffee.
“We will have healthy food and vitamins to offer,” Casandra said. “We cook with avocado oil only. We will offer everyone healthy options.”
Along with sourdough sandwiches, Abuelita Coco will provide meatless enchiladas and taco dinners. While healthy foods are on the menu, so are nachos, guacamole with chips, and papas, a variation of french fries.
The doors of Abuelita Coco opened for the first time at the grand opening. Casandra said that a lot of businesses have a soft opening and wait for a longer period before the grand opening. She said there was no reason to wait and wanted to get started as soon as possible.
“We are more than just a vegan cafe; we are a community,” Casandra said. “A space where you can truly be yourself, surrounded by love and empowerment. Our mission is to foster a sense of togetherness and bringing awareness, knowledge and pure, intentional products to guide you in feeling your best.”
Both Casandra and Ariana Flores shared in cutting the ribbon and were joined by family and members of the chamber.
“This ceremony is filled with love and with tradition,” Casandra said. “We remember family and those who are not with us. Every dish we serve is made with thought, intention and love.”
Nick Gulino, the new president of the chamber, praised Casandra and the new cafe.
“I grew up with the Flores family, they lived a block away from us,” Gulino said. “We celebrate this opening and we will do anything to help them.”
“I remember once reading that it takes a village to build something,” Casandra said. “And it does. I want to thank everyone that has helped and for being here today. I want to thank my sister and family.”
Casandra was contacted on March 7 — the third day of operation of the cafe — and said business has been brisk.
“It has been amazing,” Casandra said. “We have had a lot of business. It took a lot of time and a lot of love.”
She has been a vegan herself for eight years and believes Oak Lawn definitely needed a Mexican vegan cafe.
“Oh definitely,” she said. “Before we opened, I had to go far to find a vegan restaurant. It was needed here and people have responded.
“Oak Lawn holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew up, where I’ve grown, and continue to expand,” Casandra said. “We want to be a restaurant with a conscience.”
The cafe provides carry-out orders and delivery, Casandra said. The cafe has six tables with plenty of room for dining. They also have a front counter with five chairs. One table has checkers and other games for customers to play while waiting for their food. The cafe also has Wi-Fi.
The cafe is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The cafe is closed on Mondays.
More information can be obtained by calling 708-528-7691 or visit www.abuelitacoco.com.
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