Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert And Trisha De Los Santos.
Hi Robert and Trisha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Hailing from the Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic eight years ago, Robert has been on the hunt for flavors that remind him of su casa with a desire to bring a little slice of his homeland to everyone who craves something flavorful and new. His grandmother’s recipes are sure to appease your soul.
As a mom of four and a world traveler, Trisha has had the joy of experiencing diverse cuisines and unique dishes. She is blessed to head operations and prides herself in being the official taste tester, ensuring that you are equally content with every bite.
Robert De Los Santos’ love language is serving someone up a delicious plate of food. He’s been that way since his days growing up in the countryside of the Dominican Republic, where it’s customary for people to have a meal ready for anyone who might happen to walk in the door.
The love behind the food explodes from the plate at The Dominican, the Caribbean-style food cart De Los Santos opened in January 2025 with his wife, Trisha. It’s been a bit over a year since they’ve been delighting diners from the Dogwood at the Pine Shed on NE Second Street, but the cart is so delicious (and still relatively new on the scene) that we couldn’t help but peg it for this year’s Rookie Cart of the Year in our annual Source Restaurant Guide.
The Dominican has made waves in the food scene by winning the prestigious Rookie Food Cart of the Year award in the 2026 Restaurant Guide. This recognition highlights the exceptional quality and unique flavors that they bring to the table. Robert De Los Santos, the heart behind The Dominican, has always possessed a love for serving delicious meals. His culinary journey began in the lush countryside of the Dominican Republic, where the tradition was to have meals ready to share with anyone who would visit. This heartfelt approach to food continues to define The Dominican’s mission.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
We have been more than BLESSED in this journey! The food is unique to our region and as such, people are appreciating the love that is poured into each dish. We cannot express our appreciation enough for the community who supports us. As well, we aim to serve and serve well. We want people to feel like family and we treat them as such.
We have learned a lot in this venture, including the idea that we need a day of rest. In turn that means that we cannot serve 7 days a week and especially for the chef, that hits hard. He is a giver and warms others in sharing his creations. He would like to ensure that everyone is fed – EVERYDAY.
Also – our space is big enough to crank out the current offerings and we realize that more room would allow us to expand our menu. If everyone could just come over to the house – the chef makes some amazing dishes here too!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As mentioned, the chef (Robert) fills his cup by sharing his love of food with others. I (Trisha) have often told Robert that his passion is a creative art and he continues to grow in this area of his life by doing what he loves. Our traditional Dominican dishes are fan favorites.
Check out the menu here: https://www.thedominicanfoodcart.com/menu
In combination with the amazing flavors that Robert is slaying out of the truck, our attentive detail to ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and a part of our family is key.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Do it! Be bold. Be unique. Ensure everyone feels your love. Be you. ALSO – offer the samples.
We would love to talk more – don’t hesitate to reach out!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thedominicanfoodcart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedominicanfoodcart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Dominican-Food-Cart/61565411230630/
