Chazito’s Latin Cuisine will celebrate the grand opening of its new Statesboro location at 441 S Main St. on Sept. 8.

The family-owned business, founded by GS alumnus Chaz Ortiz, currently has restaurants and food trucks all over Georgia.

Ortiz said the idea of Chazito’s was born after several parties he threw.

“I threw some awesome house parties where I would cook for everybody,” Ortiz said. “People really liked my food and they told me, ‘You know what? You need to start selling this stuff.'”

Ortiz began cooking his recipes under a tent in Savannah in 2012. His food sold out on the first day, which led to the opening of Chazito’s’ first official location.

According to the restaurant’s website, Chazito’s’ menu features “authentic yet innovative Puerto Rican food,” including empanadas, plantains, pulled pork dishes and more.

Chazito’s also caters weddings, family gatherings business luncheons and other events.

Ortiz said people who have never been to Chazito’s should expect the quality of service to match the quality of food.

“We’ve got incredible food and incredible service,” Ortiz said. “It’s definitely a cultural experience, from the music to the food.”

For a full rundown of the restaurant, visit its website.

Emma Smith, The George-Anne News Editor, ganewsed@georgiasouthern.edu