Veronica Robles Cultural Center (VROCC) was established in 2013 as a vibrant grassroots initiative, VROCC has blossomed into a beacon of artistic expression and community connection. Officially gaining 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2016, our journey continues to thrive.

Since 2020, we have been located in Boston, Massachusetts, within a National Register-listed Historic Building—the first library branch in the United States opened in the heart of East Boston in 1870.

Starting in 2022, we started building a balanced portfolio, earning income from rentals, memberships, classes, tickets, and funds from government, foundations, and corporations. However, despite these efforts, we remain among the many underfunded BIPOC organizations in the city of Boston, striving for social change and aiming to reduce economic disparities.

About La Cocina de VROCC

La Cocina de VROCC, located at 389 Maverick St., East Boston, MA 02128, operates Thursday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It also offers catering services as a key fundraising strategy to support the programs of the Veronica Robles Cultural Center (VROCC).

The kitchen’s main focus is operating Dancing Elotes, a youth-run business selling Mexican-style corn on the cob, supervised by the Chef Manager and supported by VROCC’s Youth Coordinator, Entrepreneurship Manager, and Managing Director.

La Cocina de VROCC also serves as a culinary incubator, fostering the growth of food entrepreneurs, catering services, food truck operators, and small-scale producers in East Boston. Through VROCC’s Cultural Entrepreneurship Program, participants receive mentorship, business support, and hands-on training that strengthen their path toward success and empower them to grow their enterprises. Workshops are offered from January through June.

This affordable, fully licensed, and well-equipped kitchen reduces barriers to entry for local food businesses, helping them launch, expand, and thrive while driving economic development in the community. By offering resources and guidance, it enables a diverse range of food vendors to participate in VROCC’s community festivals throughout the year, creating more vibrant events and greater opportunities for emerging food businesses.

By facilitating and expanding vendor participation, La Cocina de VROCC strengthens community ties, stimulates local economic activity, and generates essential funds that sustain VROCC’s educational and youth programs.

La Cocina VROCC also offers specialized cooking workshops focused on traditional dishes, providing opportunities for cultural immersion and conversational Spanish practice through the culinary arts.

Soft Opening: La Cocina VROCC

By Veronica Robles Cultural Center

Soft Opening: La Cocina VROCC

POZOLE MADE BY ANNIE VERONICA'S MOM