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$15.99 (as of September 18, 2024 12:33 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Welcome to the exciting world of Buena Papa French Fry Bar, where gourmet fries meet international flair! The brainchild of James and Johanna Windon, Buena Papa started in Raleigh, North Carolina, transforming a Colombian kitchen improvisation into a beloved culinary venture that garnered a spot on “Shark Tank.” Specializing in loaded fries like El Mexicano and The Carolina, this fry bar even became the official loaded fry provider for the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team. With franchise locations springing up in Florida and North Carolina, their innovative approach to fry toppings has captured the hearts of food lovers and social media influencers alike. Explore the journey of how a simple idea turned into a nationally franchised delight, impressing both Sharks and customers along the way. Have you ever found yourself wondering what makes French fries even better? Enter Buena Papa French Fry Bar, a unique spot that’s grabbing all the buzz thanks to its national exposure on “Shark Tank.” Founded by James and Johanna Windon, Buena Papa is all about gourmet French fries made to order with a variety of internationally inspired toppings. Whether you’re a fry aficionado or just someone who enjoys a good entrepreneurial success story, there’s plenty to love about Buena Papa. Let’s dive into the details and explore what makes this fry bar so special.
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The Birth of Buena Papa French Fry Bar
Who knew that a pantry mishap could lead to a booming business? James and Johanna Windon found inspiration for Buena Papa during the pandemic when their cleaning business had to temporarily shut down. While making bandeja paisa, a Colombian dish featuring beans, chorizo, and pork belly, they found themselves without rice and instead used homemade French fries. The result was so tantalizing that it sparked the idea for Buena Papa French Fry Bar. The name itself, meaning ‘good potato’ in Spanish, reflects their Colombian roots and the unique twist they bring to the humble fry.
From Humble Beginnings to Shark Tank Dreams
It’s often said that the best businesses start with passion, and this was certainly the case for the Windons. Starting with a mere $18 in their bank account, they invested their life savings into the venture. This gamble paid off more than they could have anticipated. They describe making it onto “Shark Tank” as a dream come true, hoping to make “local history” and expand their successful business.
Buena Papa: The Official Loaded Fry of the Carolina Hurricanes
In October 2022, Buena Papa opened its third location at PNC Arena in North Carolina, a major milestone that also led to them becoming the official loaded fry of the Carolina Hurricanes for the 2022-2023 season. This venue wasn’t just another spot; it was an opportunity to introduce thousands of sports fans to their unique take on loaded fries. The menu at the arena was pared down to some of their most popular items: El Mexicano, El Americano, El Griego, and a local specialty known as The Carolina, featuring pulled pork seasoned with apple cider vinegar and spices, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce.
| Menu Item | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| El Mexicano | Mexican-inspired toppings with traditional spices |
| El Americano | American-style ingredients with a gourmet twist |
| El Griego | Greek flavors showcasing Mediterranean spices |
| The Carolina | Pulled pork, apple cider vinegar seasoning, coleslaw, BBQ sauce |
It didn’t just stop there. Buena Papa’s debut at the arena was so successful that they sold out on the first night, proving that their fries can win over even the toughest crowd.
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Expanding the Franchise: From Raleigh to Miami
Buena Papa’s success didn’t go unnoticed, and franchising was the next logical step. By the fall of 2023, they had announced their first Florida franchise in Miami. The Miami location introduced new menu items tailored to the local palate, such as El Cubano and El Miami. These dishes reflect the richness of Miami’s diverse food scene.
Special Miami Menu Items
El Cubano takes inspiration from the classic Cuban sandwich, while El Miami features tender pulled pork, guava barbecue sauce, queso fresco, and yuca chips. The adaptability of their menu is one of Buena Papa’s significant strengths, catering to local tastes while maintaining their core offering of gourmet, loaded fries.
Celebrity Endorsements and Media Buzz
Good food doesn’t take long to get noticed, especially by influential people in the culinary world. In the summer of 2022, Pati Jinich, a noted Mexican celebrity chef and host of the PBS TV series “Pati’s Mexican Table,” visited Buena Papa for her digital series “Thriving Through Food.” She described the concept as “a genius mashup,” commending the Windons for using fries as a vehicle to introduce Colombian cuisine to locals.
Social Media Spotlight
The brand has also gained significant traction on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The tag “Buena Papa Fry Bar review” has amassed over five million views on TikTok. With this level of online interest, it’s clear that Buena Papa has a growing fanbase eager to see more of what they have to offer.
The Shark Tank Experience
Appearing on Season 15, Episode 4 of “Shark Tank,” James and Johanna sought $400,000 for a 7% stake in their company. Their narrative was compelling: starting with almost nothing, investing their life savings, and building a profitable business. Their numbers impressed the Sharks. Each dish costs $3.50 to make and retails for $13.50, and their first location had churned out a whopping $1.1 million in its first year.
Shark Tank Deal Breakdown
After some intense negotiations and a brief discussion on the company’s valuation, Robert Herjavec extended an offer of $400,000 for a 20% stake. The Windons managed to negotiate this down to 19%, sealing the deal.
Why You Should Try Buena Papa
Buena Papa isn’t just about fries; it’s an experience. Here are some compelling reasons to give them a try:
International Flavors
Buena Papa offers a diverse range of loaded fries inspired by cuisines worldwide. Whether you’re in the mood for something American, Mexican, Greek, or even a unique local specialty, there’s something on the menu for everyone.
Fresh Ingredients
Each plate of fries is made to order, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor. The commitment to quality is evident in every bite, making each visit to Buena Papa a culinary adventure.
Community-Oriented
From its origins in Raleigh to its expansion to Miami, Buena Papa has stayed true to its roots. The Windons aim to create a community around their love for fries, often engaging with their fans through social media and public appearances.
The Future of Buena Papa
With a successful Shark Tank appearance, multiple franchise locations, and a growing fanbase, Buena Papa’s future looks promising. They plan to continue their national franchising efforts, bringing their unique take on loaded fries to even more cities across the country.
National Franchising Program
Their national franchising program aims to replicate their success in other regions, making it easier for entrepreneurs to open their own Buena Papa locations. This not only expands the brand but also creates new opportunities for fry lovers everywhere.
Conclusion
Buena Papa French Fry Bar is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a testament to creativity, resilience, and culinary innovation. From its humble beginnings during the pandemic to its national exposure on Shark Tank, Buena Papa has proven that even the simplest ingredients can make for an extraordinary business. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something deliciously different, give Buena Papa a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Be sure to keep an eye on their social media for the latest updates and new menu items, and perhaps you’ll find yourself at one of their locations, enjoying a plate of internationally-inspired, gourmet fries.
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