Patch Businesses Of The Year: Ibiza Kitchen In Chappaqua

CHAPPAQUA, NY — When the coronavirus pandemic began in New York in March, the owner of Ibiza Kitchen in Chappaqua began offering free meals on Fridays.

"In times like this, we all need to take care of each other," Ignacio Blanco told Patch in March. "No one will be turned away."

Blanco, co-owner with Ben Wallace of the King Street eatery, ended up running the "Hunger Squad" for seven months.

"He estimates that he distributed thousands of meals. No questions asked!" said Terri Lynn, who nominated him for Patch's 2020 Business of the Year. "Like most businesses he was concerned about the future of the restaurant and the well-being of his staff. When he told me about it I asked him if he wanted to open a GoFundMe page to help with the costs. He said 'no' and personally funded the cost for the weekly meals. Ignacio said he could tell just by looking at people that his meals were crucial for people and their families."

The Hunger Squad caught the attention of New York State Senator Pete Harckham. In October, Harckham presented the restaurant with the Empire Award for outstanding service to the community.

"Ignacio is a kind, caring and humble man. When the senator presented him with the award he said, 'I wish I could have done more.' Those are the words of a true hero," Lynn said.

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Nominate A Chappaqua Or Mt Kisco Business For Best Of The Year

The coronavirus pandemic presented enormous challenges for most local businesses, from the stay-home orders in the spring to enduring restrictions and other hurdles that continue this fall. But that hasn't stopped many of our small businesses from continuing to offer the products and services beloved by their regular customers. Patch will regularly feature nominated businesses throughout November and December. Please submit your nomination by Dec. 10.