About Us!

Meet Yesenia Rodrigues

Hi, I’m Yesenia, the face behind The Pastelito Bar. 

My love for pastelitos began in March of 2020 during one of the most uncertain seasons of my life. After being laid off from my job during the pandemic, I found myself reconnecting with a tradition that had been part of my family for generations. At just 22 years old, I made my very first pastelito, inspired by the memories of watching my mother and grandmother prepare them with love in our family kitchen.

For me, pastelitos have always been more than food. They represent family, culture, resilience, and the moments shared around the table. Although my passion for cooking became quiet after losing my grandfather and my inspiration at a young age, that passion was reignited when I needed it most.

During the pandemic, I began selling pastelitos and sold out every day for five months. That season became a leap of faith, leading me to start a full-time business alongside my mother, one of the greatest influences in my life.

After closing that chapter in 2025, I returned to school and earned my Culinary Arts certificate. In April, I married my husband, Raphael, whose encouragement helped remind me that my passion for pastelitos was still alive. Together, we opened the Pastelito Bar with the dream of sharing our love for food, culture, and community with others.

Today, I continue my education in Nutritional Science with the goal of combining culinary creativity, wellness, and meaningful connections through food. After my own health journey with Type 2 diabetes, my mission has become even stronger: to continue learning, create with intention, and serve my customers with the highest quality ingredients and care.

Every pastelito we make carries a piece of my story, my family, and my heart. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your special moments.

Meet Raphael Rodrigues

Hi, I’m Raphael, the heart behind The Pastelito Bar.

With my Brazilian roots, I have always carried a deep appreciation for culture, family, and the traditions that connect us. Growing up surrounded by the warmth of Brazilian hospitality taught me that food has a unique way of bringing people together, creating memories, and making people feel at home.

Professionally, I am a licensed mental health clinician with a passion for caring for others. My work has allowed me to support people through some of their most difficult moments with compassion, patience, and understanding. In 2023, I earned my Master’s degree from Framingham State University, continuing my commitment to serving others and strengthening the communities around me.

As the General Manager of Pastelito Bar, I help support the operations, organization, and growth of our business while making sure that the heart behind every order, every customer interaction, and every experience remains the same. I believe that the smallest details, like a warm welcome, a meaningful conversation, or a carefully prepared meal, can really make someone feel seen and valued.

When Yesenia shared her dream of bringing The Pastelito Bar to life, I saw more than a business. I saw a purpose. I saw an opportunity for our Puerto Rican and Brazilian cultures to come together and create something special.

Together, we are building Pastelito Bar on the foundation of family, faith, culture, and community. Yesenia carries the story and the flavors that inspired this journey, and I help carry the love, care, and connection that make it meaningful.

Every pastelito is a piece of our story. It's a reminder that food can do more than satisfy hunger; it can bring people together.