By The Star Staff
The New Progressive Party minority leader in the island House of Representatives, Carlos “Johnny” Méndez Nuñez, called attention Tuesday to this Saturday and Sunday’s “Los Kioskos Food Festival,” an activity where the visitor will have the opportunity to taste the diverse gastronomic offer of the traditional kiosks of Luquillo.
“The Kiosks of Luquillo are part of our uniqueness as a people. Since its creation in 1964, this strip of small and medium-sized merchants has been a center of tourist attraction for its family atmosphere, excellent food and proximity to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, La Monserrate,” Méndez Nuñez said in a written statement. “This weekend the ‘Los Kioskos Food Festival’ will be celebrated, a unique event where visitors can taste the best dishes, while enjoying live music and dozens of exhibitors.”
Méndez Nuñez, who also represents District 36 (Río Grande, Luquillo, Fajardo, Ceiba, Vieques and Culebra, is the author of Law 123-2019, which designated the area that includes the kiosks as a “Special Gastronomic Center of the Eastern Region of Puerto Rico,” thus seeking to continue promoting tourism and economic development. The law paved the way for the marketing of the “Luquillo Kiosks” worldwide.
“This is the first edition of this festival that I am convinced will have a great impact for everyone,” Méndez Nuñez said. “For example, the spaces for exhibitors were finished almost immediately when the process began, which shows a great level of interest. This activity represents an opportunity for everyone, from no matter what town, to visit the kiosks and fall in love with their gastronomy and atmosphere. Come to the Kiosks of Luquillo this weekend and enjoy the best food in the best atmosphere.”
The kiosks generate around 800 direct jobs, in addition to continuously injecting capital into the economy, not only in the municipality of Luquillo, but also in other towns in the eastern part of the island. It is estimated that the operation of businesses in the kiosks produces over $43 million a year for the economy.