On the night of October 2nd, a devastating fire broke out in our strip mall, changing our lives in an instant. Our beloved bakery, which has been a labor of love and a celebration of our culture, was deeply affected. Due to the damage, we are currently inoperable until further notice. As a small, family-run business, this has left us heartbroken and facing an uncertain future.
What we built wasn’t just a bakery. It was a gathering place. A little slice of Havana or Miami right here in Knoxville, where we could share the flavors, warmth, and traditions of our heritage with this beautiful community we’ve grown to love so much. From the fresh pastelitos, the strong cafecito, and the smiles that came with every order, we poured our hearts into every single detail.
Now, we’re faced with the challenge of picking up the pieces.
We’re launching this fundraiser to help us stay afloat through the next few weeks as we:
• Find temporary kitchen space to continue baking and fulfilling small orders
• Cover ongoing bills and operating costs during this unexpected closure
• Support our team and plan for the long road to recovery
We know times are tough for everyone, and asking for help is never easy. But every donation, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to reopening and serving you again. Your support means the world to us.
Knoxville, you’ve welcomed our Cuban roots with open arms, and it’s our greatest hope to continue sharing our culture, our food, and our story with you for years to come.
With all our love and gratitude,
Pastelito’s Cuban Bakery Family
