Help us bring Rafael home.

The Tortilla Flats family has suffered a heartbreaking loss. If you’ve eaten at Tortilla Flats over the past several years, there’s a very good chance that Rafael Cruz cooked your meal. Rafael was one of the backbones of Tortilla Flats. Day after day, he showed up ready to work, always with a smile, a great attitude, and an enormous heart. He was an incredibly hard worker, a talented cook, and most importantly, a wonderful friend to so many people.

Rafael didn’t just make great food. He helped make the people around him better. Over the years, he taught and mentored countless other cooks and chefs, sharing his knowledge and helping them become better at what they do. He made friends with nearly everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him. He was truly part of the Tortilla Flats family.

This week, our friend Rafael was tragically killed following a motorcycle accident. His passing has left an enormous hole in our restaurant, and in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Rafael’s mother and family are now facing the heartbreaking task of bringing him home to the Dominican Republic.

We are raising money to help cover the significant costs of transporting Rafael home and to provide some financial support to his family during this incredibly difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the amount, would mean so much to Rafael’s family and to all of us who loved him. If you are unable to contribute financially, sharing this fundraiser is also a tremendous way to help.

Rafael gave so much of himself to Tortilla Flats and to the people around him. He worked hard, made people laugh, cooked countless meals, taught others, and became a friend to so many. We want to do everything we can to help bring our friend home. Thank you for being part of the Tortilla Flats community and for helping us honor Rafael and support his family. Rest in peace, Rafael. You will always be part of the Tortilla Flats family.

The Tortilla Flats business (Hope Hospitality LLC) will be handling the transfer of funds directly to you Rafael's family. ALL funds will used to cover the expensing of his funeral and transportation home and additional costs related to his tragic death. Thank you for helping bring our friend home.