Our Story
Rooted in Culture,
Built for Community
La Bandera Kitchen was born from a passion for authentic Dominican cuisine and a deep commitment to building community across the Bay Area.
Founder & Head Chef
Franklyn Rosario
La Bandera Kitchen · Oakland, CA
Meet the Chef
Franklyn Rosario
Chef Franklyn Rosario grew up in the Dominican Republic surrounded by the rich flavors and traditions of Caribbean cuisine. From his grandmother's kitchen to the professional culinary world, food has always been his language of love and community.
After relocating to Oakland, Franklyn recognized a gap in the Bay Area's culinary landscape — authentic Dominican cuisine that could serve both the community and the corporate world. In 2018, he founded La Bandera Kitchen with a simple mission: bring the flavors of home to the Bay Area while creating jobs and opportunities for the community.
With a background spanning corporate catering, event management, and community organizing, Franklyn brings a unique blend of culinary artistry and business acumen to every plate. His vision extends beyond food — he sees La Bandera Kitchen as a vehicle for cultural celebration, economic empowerment, and community building.
Today, La Bandera Kitchen serves hundreds of corporate clients across the Bay Area, operates a thriving meal subscription program, and hosts beloved pop-up events that bring the Dominican community together.
Our Mission
Why We Do This
To bring authentic Dominican cuisine to the Bay Area while creating opportunities, supporting communities, and celebrating culture through food. Every meal we serve is a bridge between cultures and a contribution to the community we love.
Our Vision
Where We're Going
To become the leading Dominican catering company in Northern California and eventually expand nationally — proving that authentic cultural cuisine and corporate professionalism are not just compatible, they are a winning combination.
Our Values
What We Stand For
Authentic
Every dish tells the story of Dominican heritage and tradition.
Community Driven
We invest in the neighborhoods and people that support us.
Professional
Corporate-grade reliability with family-owned warmth.
Inclusive
Our table has room for everyone — all cultures, all backgrounds.
Our Journey
From Kitchen to Community
La Bandera Kitchen founded in Oakland by Chef Franklyn Rosario
First corporate catering contract secured with a Bay Area tech company
Launched meal subscription program during the pandemic to serve the community
Expanded to Berkeley, Emeryville, and Alameda markets
Launched pop-up events program — A Dominican Afternoon debuts in Berkeley
Reached 500+ corporate clients across the Bay Area
Launched corporate membership program and community impact initiatives
Expanding to San Francisco, Marin County, and Walnut Creek
Ready to Work With Us?
Whether you need corporate catering, a meal subscription, or want to attend one of our pop-up events, we would love to hear from you.