A few nights ago, an intoxicated man came into our family restaurant in Spring. He fell off a safe stool, then turned his anger on us, yelling at my dad to get legal, threatening me, and yanking our front door so hard it broke. We've already been struggling to get our feet off the ground, and now on top of everything else, we’re scrambling to repair our main entrance and keep our restaurant safe and welcoming.

This is just one example of what our family has been facing as we fight to keep our restaurant alive.

My name is Enrique, and I just graduated from the University of Houston. I’ve done a lot of scary things in my life, but starting a restaurant with my mom has been both the hardest and the most growth-inducing.

It’s been her dream my entire life to open her own place, not just to share her cooking, but to build stability and economic mobility in a country that has made her journey harder than it needed to be.

We’ve made it this far with no investors, no bank loans, and no safety net — just grit, sacrifice, and community support. I studied business in college because I wanted to help her. I’ve learned permits, licensing, taxes, branding, hospitality, and more — while working 10am–10pm almost every day to keep us afloat.

But even with all that, the truth is: being a family-owned business is a completely different climb compared to a corporation. Banks rarely bet on people like us. We’ve been crushed by unexpected fees, rejected for financing, and forced to take loans from family just to survive. And still, we keep going.

Right now, we need help with:

– Repairing our broken front door (main entrance)

– Fixing critical equipment (freezer, speakers, glassware)

– Printing menus, signage, and promotional materials

– Making our patio usable and inviting

– Everyday essentials (towels, mops, plants, and supplies)

Every dollar donated goes directly into keeping Chubby’s alive, safe, functional, and welcoming.

The best way to support us is always to come visit, share a meal, and laugh with us at Chubby’s. But if you’re able to contribute here, you’re helping us keep this dream alive for our family and community.

We’re not at the beginning anymore — but we’re still climbing. And we’re grateful for every single hand that helps us.

With love and gratitude,

Enrique & Family