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Portland, OR

Expanding production capacity to meet demand for gluten-free Colombian food through equipment upgrades.

• Gluten-free pioneer: 100% gluten-free kitchen recognized by celiac-friendly platforms and food blogs.
• Strong community presence: Family-run and immigrant-owned business with deep local roots.
• Critical equipment investment: Funds will support key purchases to increase efficiency and output.
• Growth-oriented strategy: Launching new catering and wholesale brand to serve regional demand.
• Consistent acclaim: Featured in Eater Portland and maintains a near-perfect customer review score.

El Pilon is raising funds to upgrade its equipment and boost production capacity in response to growing demand for its 100% gluten-free Colombian cuisine. Operating two storefronts in Portland, the family-owned business has earned widespread recognition for its authentic offerings, including empanadas, arepas, and patacones. With consistently high customer reviews and local media praise, El Pilon serves both individual customers and an expanding network of retail and food service partners across the Pacific Northwest. However, current operations are constrained by aging equipment, making it difficult to scale without sacrificing quality or increasing prices.

The capital raised will support the purchase of new equipment, including a food cart, fryer, fridge, and outdoor food storage unit, all of which are essential to increasing output and improving operational efficiency. These strategic upgrades will not only help reduce maintenance costs but also enable El Pilon to meet the growing demand from both in-store patrons and wholesale partners. This investment marks a critical step in the company’s broader plan to evolve into a leading fast-casual restaurant and launch its new catering and wholesale brand, Aji. By investing in El Pilon, supporters are contributing to the growth of a family business rooted in heritage, quality, and community, while helping to expand access to flavorful, gluten-free Latin food across the region.

Company Info

El Pilon is a Portland-based gluten-free Colombian food business expanding through retail, catering, and wholesale growth.

El Pilon is a Portland-based food business specializing in gluten-free Colombian cuisine, operating two storefronts and partnering with local retailers across the metropolitan area. The company offers a variety of traditional dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and patacones, all prepared in a 100% gluten-free kitchen. El Pilon has earned strong customer reviews and media recognition for its authenticity and dedication to quality, catering to gluten-sensitive and celiac diners. Founded by Colombian immigrants, the business has grown from a downtown food cart into a local staple, serving a diverse and loyal customer base.

Under the leadership of co-owner Martin Montagut, El Pilon has doubled its revenue and is now expanding to meet increasing demand. Plans include upgrading production equipment and launching a subsidiary brand, Aji, focused on wholesale and event catering for gluten-free empanadas. The company is strategically positioning itself as both a beloved fast-casual restaurant and a supplier of gluten-free Latin fare throughout the Pacific Northwest. With its deep cultural roots, family-driven leadership, and scalable business model, El Pilon continues to grow its impact in Portland’s food scene and beyond.