Our History
Three masters of flavor (Don Pepe, Ruben Perez, Don Rene Perez) plotting their next culinary masterpiece—where every conversation is seasoned with passion and every recipe is a family secret worth guarding.
In the sugarcane fields of Puerto Padre, Cuba, where Don Pepe Perez first cultivated a love for flavor, craftsmanship, and community. That legacy of integrity and hospitality has been passed down through four generations — from Cuba to the heart of Central Florida.
In the 1950s, Don Pepe’s son, Rene Perez, immigrated to New York City with nothing but a suitcase and a dream. Surrounded by the energy of the city, Rene discovered his passion for culinary artistry and built a life rooted in hard work, family, and flavor. Eventually, he moved to Orlando and opened his first diner — a place that would ignite the next generation’s love for hospitality.
His son, Ruben Perez, grew up in that diner, learning firsthand what it meant to serve others with heart and excellence. In 2009, Ruben opened the first Zaza location at the Orlando International Airport, blending his family’s Cuban roots with a modern take on comfort food and coffee. What started as one location has grown into a beloved brand with ten locations and an artisan coffee roasting facility, now run by Don Pepe’s great-grandson, Ruben Enrique.
At Zaza, we serve more than just food — we serve up familia tradition. Our signature Cuban comfort food is made fresh daily, using recipes and methods passed down through generations. From perfectly baked quesitos and empanadas to our classic slow-roasted mojo pork Cuban sandwich, every bite tells a story.
Before food blogs, before celebrity chefs, before “trending”—this Cuban family was already serving looks and serving flavor that would make your taste buds dance.
From healing hearts to feeding souls—this man knew that sometimes the best remedy is a perfectly seasoned plate of pure comfort.
Mambuela didn’t just have recipes, she had culinary superpowers—the kind that transform simple ingredients into extraordinary cravings and keep you dreaming of más.
Don Rene gets his start in NYC with his original flavor squad—these legends didn’t just cook food, they crafted edible magic, one perfectly pressed sandwich at a time.
Since 2015, Zaza Cuban Comfort Food has been a taste of home at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Our first location opened its doors that year, bringing our authentic Cuban dishes to the heart of Florida travel.
Zaza has grown with heart and purpose. Today, we proudly celebrate multiple locations across Central Florida. We welcome every team member into our familia, and every guest as an amigo.
Great service. Food was really good. Cozy. Even though a small chain it had a family run vibe. I prefer the small family run restaurants and this didn’t disappoint. Even though it looks like a dive from the outside was clean and well taken care of. Will return. Visiting from out of state.
Always a great time here honestly. I do come quite often so they know I want my croquetas fresh each time! They always greet you upon entering which makes you feel welcome. Everyone is great! Love it here!!
One of my Fav empanada places. I used to eat them and get their con Leche at the airport. That was my perfect welcome to Orlando. The beef and chicken empanadas are both great. The cheese pastry with guava are also good.
This cozy haven is my home away from home, where every sip of coffee wraps me in warmth and love. Your Latin-inspired brews are a taste sensation, crafted with passion and served with a generous dash of sweetness that makes my heart skip a beat!
The food was fresh, tasted amazing and everyone was friendly. The restaurant is clean and again, food was amazingly fresh. Didn’t taste like it was sitting for hours. My son who is 8 and picky eater had soup, a Quesitos and two empanadas. We’ve been to other locations which is great, but this one has been my far the best.
