“I feel so good,” Albert said. “I believe anything is possible in life. I started as a dishwasher, a janitor, a busser, a server, and now I own the place. Dreams really do come true.”
Milo’s City Cafe
Milo’s City Cafe is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday at 1325 N.E. Broadway, 503-288-6456 miloscitycafepdx.com
A Tale of Perseverance and Ownership: From Dishwasher to Restaurant Owner in Portland
Albert Escobar’s journey from uncertainty to restaurant ownership is a testament to hard work, determination, and the power of dreams. Immigrating to Portland from Peru in 1995, Albert’s path took unexpected turns, leading him to his current role as a proud restaurant owner.
Initially working in a factory, Albert took on a side gig washing dishes at Sammy’s, a series of restaurants owned by chefs Loren Skogland and Marianne Meskel. Despite facing language barriers and doubts about his abilities, Albert sent most of his earnings back home to his family in Peru. His gradual immersion into the world of restaurants began when he was offered the chance to move from dishwashing to bussing tables. Despite his anxiety, he accepted the opportunity and proved his capabilities, even turning his mishaps into meaningful connections with customers.
Albert’s journey took him from bussing tables to becoming a server at Milo’s City Cafe, a popular brunch spot in Portland’s Irvington neighborhood. With hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks, all while sending for his family to join him in Portland. More than two decades later, both Albert and his wife, Elena, have now become owners of the very restaurant where they started their journey.
When Milo’s faced a temporary closure, Albert saw an opportunity to step up and take over the business. His dedication and reputation garnered support from the previous owners and landlords, enabling him to secure the restaurant’s future. With its recent reopening, Milo’s has brought back its beloved dishes, with Albert and Elena infusing their own touch of care and authenticity.
Elena’s experience as a long-term employee, starting from a dishwasher to becoming a preparadora, has made her an integral part of the restaurant’s revival. Her expertise and commitment to preserving the restaurant’s signature flavors have made a significant impact. With her assistance, Milo’s is once again offering dishes that resonate with its loyal customers.
For Albert, Milo’s represents more than just a business; it’s a place where the community gathers, where regulars become family. With a focus on familiar, consistent dishes, he aims to cater to the neighborhood’s preferences and maintain the sense of belonging that has been a hallmark of Milo’s for over two decades.
The Lloyd neighborhood’s support has been unwavering, with patrons from all walks of life returning to enjoy their cherished meals and reconnect with familiar faces. The sense of community that Milo’s embodies is what keeps people coming back, generation after generation.
Albert’s commitment to his craft is evident in his daily routine, which mirrors the work ethic he’s had since arriving in America. With his journey from dishwasher to owner, he serves as a living testament to the idea that dreams can indeed come true through hard work and perseverance.
Milo’s City Cafe, now under Albert and Elena’s ownership, continues to stand as a symbol of their dedication and the heartwarming stories that are woven into its fabric. The legacy of this Portland brunch spot carries forward, reminding us all that with determination and a belief in the possibilities of life, dreams can be realized.
Supportland Info
Milo’s City Cafe is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday at 1325 N.E. Broadway, 503-288-6456 miloscitycafepdx.com
“I feel so good,” Albert said. “I believe anything is possible in life. I started as a dishwasher, a janitor, a busser, a server, and now I own the place. Dreams really do come true.”
Original article published on OregonLive.com by Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com who did an amazing job. I used Ai to re-write his article, so go eat at Milo’s to supportland and thank Michael for the tip by reading his article that includes over a dozen pics you need to see: https://www.oregonlive.com/dining/2023/08/from-dishwasher-to-owner-immigrant-dreams-come-true-at-milos-city-cafe.html
