Solmary Cadenas, owner of Q' Papaya at Edison Mall, has transformed a modest $300 investment and a passion for her homeland’s cuisine into a thriving restaurant that celebrates Venezuelan culture.
Cadenas arrived in the U.S. from Venezuela with only a couple hundred dollars to her name, determined to build a better life.
“I decided to invest my $300,” she said. “It was all that I had.”
With limited resources, Cadenas taught herself to cook traditional Venezuelan dishes like empanadas, arepas, and Cachapas using YouTube tutorials.
Early attempts were challenging, she shared: “They came out thick, the dough would break. It was a disaster, but little by little,” she said, recalling how her operation grew from simple pastries to a full menu.
Her dedication paid off as her small business quickly grew, thanks to a strong social media presence that helped her secure a deal to sell her food at a local gas station. This success led to a second Q Papaya location opening at Edison Mall last year.
“It’s a lot of sacrifice and desire to keep moving forward,” she said.
For Cadenas, Q Papaya is more than a business; it’s a haven for fellow Venezuelans who can’t return home due to the country’s political crisis. “It’s a little sad because we would like to see our families, people who live in Venezuela, have a better quality of life,” she said.
The crisis in Venezuela resonates deeply with the Venezuelan community in Lee County, sparking solidarity efforts and protests. As tensions rise, Cadenas remains committed to offering a warm, comforting space.
“An empanada makes a Venezuelan happy; it transports them,” she said, reflecting on the joy her food brings to customers.
Cadenas embodies the resilience and drive of immigrants pursuing their dreams. Her message is one of optimism and determination: “When someone does something with love and with lots of desire, you can do anything.”