Tropical Llama Owners Have Served Fusion Dishes

Sandra Roque and Johan Martinez brought their unique culinary blend to a Roslindale food cookout.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Mexican Food

Bold vector editorial illustration of two empanadas on a plate with spices, representing a cultural food fusion. — Tropical Llama owners Sandra Roque and Johan Martinez introduced their signature Bolivian-Dominican fusion menu to Boston at a recent local cookout. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Restaurant owners Sandra Roque and Johan Martinez showcased their fusion menu of Bolivian and Dominican cuisine at a recent event in Roslindale. The duo, who operate Tropical Llama in Raynham, hope to address a noted lack of Bolivian food options in Boston.

Why it matters

The owners identified a gap in the local culinary scene for authentic Bolivian dishes, a cuisine type that has been largely absent from the city for over a decade. By introducing these traditional flavors to new audiences, they aim to broaden the region's diverse food offerings.

Tropical Llama has operated in Raynham for 5 years. It has been more than 10 years since the last Bolivian restaurant closed in East Boston.

The players

Sandra Roque

Sandra Roque is a restaurant owner who operates Tropical Llama and intends to expand her business into the Boston market.

Johan Martinez

Johan Martinez is a restaurant owner and partner who helps operate Tropical Llama in Raynham.

Tropical Llama

Tropical Llama is a dining establishment based in Raynham that specializes in serving a fusion of Bolivian and Dominican cuisine.

The details

At the Hispanic Heritage and Hustle cookout, the owners served mini-empanadas highlighting their signature style. Their business menu combines traditional Bolivian spices with classic Dominican culinary techniques.

The restaurant owners have served Bolivian and Dominican food since 2021.
The food cookout in Roslindale took place on October 3, 2026.

Dining Out
Sept. 30
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Culture Shift

This move reflects the recent expansion of regional Latin American food concepts in urban hubs. It marks a departure from traditional dining models by prioritizing underrepresented regional cuisines in growing metropolitan areas.

Boston residents currently lacking access to Bolivian cuisine may see new dining options emerge in the city as the owners execute their expansion plans. Customers in the Roslindale area can look for these fusion dishes at future local pop-up events.

The takeaway

The addition of new regional restaurants can transform a city's culinary identity by reintroducing forgotten flavor profiles to the public. Diners interested in these fusion menus should keep an eye on community food events for early tasting opportunities before a permanent location opens.