Taquería Las Flores- Rest. & Staff Recovery Fund

Hola, my name is Jazmin Flores and I’ve been the owner of Taqueria Las Flores, a Mexican restaurant located in North Park neighborhood, Chicago, since October 22, 2019.

Unfortunately, on the morning of Saturday, August 5, 2023, I was awoken by a phone call that no business owner ever wants to receive – the restaurant is on fire.

It is with deep sadness that I share the news that Las Flores was absolutely destroyed.

From the kitchen where it was our joy to make delicious food, to the many houseplants and cacti that grew right along the beautiful hand painted windows (many were gifts from my mom, friends and beloved customers) , to the Mexican artwork and decor that I so lovingly collected throughout my life – all was lost.

I used to say, “If we survived COVID and the lockdown as a brand-new business, we could survive ANYTHING.” After today, however, I am not so sure.

Coming from a family business, it had always been MY DREAM to follow in my father’s footsteps.

I wanted to recreate the delicious recipes and my childhood that I had at Taqueria El Asadero (2213 W Montrose Ave), with my own flair and out of the old man’s shadow.

Las Flores was a dream come true for me. As I always wanted to open a restaurant near home. It was my love letter to my Mexican heritage, and my neighborhood. Beyond that, however, I wanted nothing more than to create a community space where all would feel welcome.

I remember spending countless hours preparing the space. Coating the hallway with chalkboard paint, so excited for my nieces, nephews, and all children (and adults!) to have a fun space to get creative. I know how much parents enjoy a chance to eat their meals “in peace,” so I brought coloring books, crayons and marker into the restaurant. Cook books too for the foodies to enjoy.

Continuing in that spirit, for the past few years we have developed a wonderful partnership with Ms. Ana, from Hora de Cuentos. On a monthly basis, Ms. Ana brought her lovely Spanish storytime to the restaurant. Along with the songs, bubbles, and laughter, we were blessed to meet some amazing new customers. Needless to say, this event will be deeply missed.

Additionally, it has been so important for me to be an active member of the community as a neighbor myself, reconnecting. We loved to showcase local artists and even had some “pop-up” sales.

Further, it was always a great time to collaborate with other local restaurants.(Honey Butter Fried Chicken x Las Flores was an AMAZING opportunity.)

Not only has Taqueria Las Flores donated food to Chicago Public Schools, such as Peterson Elementary, but we have also donated portions of our sales to various charities.

Beyond the great loss of my business, my heart truly aches for my amazing staff: Edna, Israel, Gerson, Shaan and Pancho.

Through the pandemic, wild inflation rates, the building being sold off to a developer and every other figurative punch that has been thrown our way, they have remained the backbone of Las Flores.

To say that I was devastated when sharing the awful news with them would be putting it much too lightly. I had to tell my employees - my friends & family - that the restaurant is gone.

​It is with this in mind, that I ask any who are able to please share anything that they can with us. Believe me, I understand that finances are tight for many right now, so I do not lightly make this request. However, I deeply appreciate anything that you are able to give.

Your donations will profoundly impact myself and my staff, as we attempt to navigate life in a world where our livelihood was burned down. If you are unable to provide monetary assistance, please consider giving this campaign a share.

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​With Much Gratitude,

​​Jazmin Flores