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Philadelphia, PA

Bringing the rich flavors of Venezuelan cuisine to Philadelphia through an efficient ghost kitchen model.

• Mission: Bringing authentic Venezuelan flavors to Philadelphia, offering a rich, cultural culinary experience through traditional dishes like arepas, empanadas, and tequeños.  
• Innovation: Transitioning to a ghost kitchen model to expand delivery and takeout services, enhancing operational efficiency and reaching a broader audience.  
• Funding Uses: Upgrading kitchen equipment, strengthening working capital, and refinancing debt to support growth and enhance production capacity.  
• Cultural Impact: Serving as a bridge between Venezuelan expatriates and local food enthusiasts, offering an authentic taste of Venezuela in every dish.  
• Leadership: A family-owned business led by Maria and Levi Hernández, dedicated to preserving and sharing their cultural heritage through food.

Autana Authentic Venezuelan Food, a family-owned business based in Philadelphia, delivers the vibrant and authentic flavors of Venezuelan cuisine to a growing community of food enthusiasts. Led by founders Maria and Levi Hernandez, Autana specializes in traditional Venezuelan dishes like arepas, empanadas, and tequeños, crafted with a deep commitment to quality and authenticity. Launched during the pandemic, the business has quickly gained recognition for its dedication to preserving cultural flavors and has established itself as a favorite among locals seeking an authentic taste of Venezuela.

The funds raised will support Autana’s transition to a ghost kitchen model, allowing it to expand its reach through takeout and delivery across Philadelphia. Investment will be used for essential kitchen equipment, working capital, and debt refinancing, positioning Autana for sustainable growth. By enhancing operational efficiency and focusing on delivery, Autana aims to meet the demand for Venezuelan cuisine, strengthening its footprint in the regional food scene and building toward future expansion.

Company Info

Autana Authentic Venezuelan Food delivers traditional Venezuelan flavors to Philadelphia, offering a nostalgic and genuine culinary experience.

Autana Authentic Venezuelan Food brings traditional Venezuelan flavors to Philadelphia, led by the family team of Maria and Levi Hernández. The restaurant focuses on creating authentic, home-style dishes like arepas, empanadas, and traditional beverages, celebrating the vibrant, diverse culinary heritage of Venezuela. Autana has garnered praise for its dedication to quality and authenticity, earning recognition from top Philadelphia food critics and locals alike. The business appeals to both Venezuelan expatriates and adventurous food enthusiasts, offering a warm and nostalgic dining experience that connects patrons to Venezuelan culture through food.

With a planned expansion into a ghost kitchen model, Autana aims to meet growing demand across Philadelphia for delivery and takeout. The funds raised will help enhance production capacity, update equipment, and strengthen working capital, positioning the business to serve more customers while maintaining its commitment to authenticity and quality.