El Coqui Puerto Rican Cuisine: A Taste of the Island in the Heart of Santa Rosa
Bringing bold flavor, family tradition, and vibrant Puerto Rican culture to Sonoma County, El Coqui Puerto Rican Cuisine has become a celebrated dining destination in downtown Santa Rosa. Recognized by Food Network, Check, Please! Bay Area, and honored with awards including a Sonoma County Harvest Fair Gold Medal and “Best Latin Restaurant” from both The Press Democrat and North Bay Bohemian, El Coqui has earned its reputation as one of the region’s most distinctive and flavorful culinary experiences.
At the heart of the kitchen is Jacqueline Roman, whose Puerto Rican heritage and family traditions inspire every dish. Raised in New York with deep roots in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Jacqueline learned to cook from her grandmother--carrying forward generations of recipes shaped by summers on the island, farm life, and cherished family memories. Her cooking reflects that history in every bite, from deeply seasoned classics to comforting, home-style dishes that celebrate authentic island flavor.
Alongside her is co-owner Tina Jackson, who brings the same passion to the restaurant’s warm hospitality and business vision. Together, the duo have built an experience rooted in culture, music, and community. Tina describes El Coqui as a place where “food is loaded with as much flavor and color as the people,” where salsa music, celebration, and laughter are all part of the dining experience.
From mofongo and slow-cooked specialties to traditional Puerto Rican favorites passed down through generations, El Coqui offers Santa Rosa a true taste of the island... rich in history, full of personality, and always made with heart.
