Raul Porto Sr., the Cuban émigré and founder of Porto's Bakery & Cafe, has passed away at the age of 92. Renowned for his popular chain of Southern California bakeries, Porto died on Wednesday, leaving behind a legacy of sweet and savory Cuban treats loved by locals. The family-owned business confirmed the news of his passing in an Instagram post on Friday, as reported by KTLA.

The bakery's humble beginnings trace back to Porto's home kitchen, where he and his wife Rosa began selling their homemade cakes and pastries. Working alongside his wife, Raul managed to balance another bakery job before eventually committing full-time to the flourishing family venture. Porto's eventually expanded to a physical storefront on Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park in 1976, garnering a reputation as one of L.A.'s most cherished bakery establishments, KTLA stated.

Rosa Porto, Raul’s partner in both life and business, predeceased him in 2019. Together they established a community staple, where queues bend around the block for a taste of their famed potato balls, meat pies, and an assortment of baked goods nostalgic for their Cuban roots. NBC Los Angeles highlighted Porto's significant impact, noting, "Through their hard work, humility, and dedication, they transformed a small family endeavor into a cherished community treasure."

Today, Porto's Bakery & Cafe operates six bustling locations across Glendale, Burbank, Downey, Buena Park, West Covina, and Northridge. Raul's commitment to quality and community has left a palpable mark on the Southern California foodscape, in addition to propelling the family name to widespread acclaim. Fans of the establishment took to social media to offer condolences and share memories fueled by the bakery's flavorful offerings, as per the post on Porto's official Instagram account cited by NBC Los Angeles.