Bringing Puerto Rican Flavor to Kansas City with Primos
Kansas City, get ready for a delightful taste from the Caribbean! Jorge Rivera, a lively culinary creator, has embarked on a flavorful journey by opening his cloud kitchen, Primos, adding a much-needed Puerto Rican flair to the local dining scene.
A Family Connection to Cooking
As you dive into the vibrant world of Primos, you’ll find that it all began with Rivera’s grandmother back in Puerto Rico. After moving to Kansas from his childhood home, where he spent his early years until the age of ten, Rivera was eager to find a slice of his past in the form of Puerto Rican restaurants in Kansas City. He reminisces fondly about his favorite spot, the now-closed Caribe Blue. “When it closed down, I felt a void, but it sparked an idea in me,” Rivera shared with a sparkle in his eye.
With his military police career behind him, Rivera embraced the chance to stay in Kansas and set up a cloud kitchen at the Crossroads Food Stop on 1600 Campbell St. He took a bold step to fill the gap he saw in the local market for his beloved Caribbean-style cuisine. And remember, Primos means “cousins” in Spanish, which perfectly reflects Rivera’s vision of creating a warm, family-centric dining space.
Dishing Out Authentic Flavors
Since its grand opening on the vibrant day of Cinco de Mayo earlier this year, Primos has quickly become a local go-to for anyone craving authentic Puerto Rican dishes. Rivera has forged connections with reliable suppliers, ensuring that every bite bursts with authentic flavor. With a menu that features enduring favorites like empanadillas, crispy fried plantains, and mouthwatering pincho de pollo (spiced chicken skewers), you’re bound to find something that tantalizes your taste buds.
But hold on, because Rivera’s flagship dish, the Boribowl, is where things really get exciting! Inspired by the term “Boricua,” which Puerto Ricans use proudly to identify themselves, this dish is a feast for the senses. “It’s our heritage in a bowl,” Rivera proudly claims. The Boribowl includes pork marinated for an impressive 24 hours in a secret sauce (pssst, it’s a family secret!) before being boiled to perfection and then pan-fried to give it that perfect crispy bite. And to top it off, you can savor it over mofongo, an unforgettable dish made from smashed fried plantains and flavored with cilantro, garlic butter, and chicken broth. Yum!
Engaging the Community
As the culinary community buzzes about Primos, Rivera expresses his commitment to not just serving food, but also fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all. “We create a strong family environment in our space,” he says, inviting locals to come in, share stories, and indulge in a meal that’s not just about eating but about community bonding.
Kansas City, don’t miss out on this sparkling gem of a cloud kitchen where every bite takes you closer to the rich and flavorful heart of Puerto Rican heritage. Rivera’s Primos is more than just a place to grab a meal; it’s a celebration of culture and family, manifesting deliciously in each carefully crafted dish. What better way to honor your roots than by sharing it with the community around you?
