"Boricua Soul, a Puerto Rican–Southern restaurant in the heart of downtown Durham, North Carolina, is co-owned by Serena and Toriano Fredericks. The restaurant features a blend of Caribbean and Southern dishes such as hoecakes, alcapurrias, jibaritos, sweet potato cheesecake empanadas, mac and cheese topped with pernil, and vegan collards. It has a strong community focus, hosting live jazz events, supporting local farmers, and advocating for social justice causes. Despite challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant has remained a vital part of the community, offering catering and operating a food truck." - Von Diaz