OUR STORY
Leo Alquiros discovered his love for food at a young age in the Philippines, where he grew up cooking and selling homemade dishes and baked goods in his hometown (Lucena City, Quezon Province). After immigrating to the United States in the early 1990s, he spent eight years working in corporate food research and development, refining his skills and deepening his understanding of flavor and technique.
Leo has always believed that food is best enjoyed when shared. In his spare time, he gives back by cooking and distributing free meals both in the U.S. and abroad - a reflection of his gratitude and commitment to the communities he serves. He is also very active in organizing an all-volunteer outreach program called Let Us Share Our Blessings (LUSOB), that offers food, and sometimes medical checkups for communities in need.
His first catering opportunity came during his daughter's first birthday celebration in November of 1990. The positive response, and the growing support of the Filipino community through word of mouth, allowed him to build a steady part-time catering business. In 1999, his longtime dream became a reality when he opened his first restaurant Tropical Hut Philippine Cuisine in Old Bridge, NJ. Over the years, he has expanded his restaurant to 8 more locations across NJ, NY and PA.
As his culinary ventures continue to grow, he is excited to introduce his recipes and beloved Filipino delicacies to the vibrant state of Florida, choosing Jacksonville as his newest destination. Guided by passion, remarkable flavor, and a spirit of warm hospitality, he eagerly anticipates making a meaningful contribution to the community.