I always thought “one day I’m going to have my own business,” said Rogelio, owner of Roger’s Pizzerolo on Mission Gorge Road next door to the now-defunct Souplantation. His dream came true and was, the realization of the American Dream of success through hard work. Roger’s Pizzerolo opened for business this past December.

Originally from San Salvador, Rogelio worked for many years in local restaurants, starting as a dishwasher. After hard work and a bit of luck, he received a promotion to chef. He started his first pizza business in a gas station in Lemon Grove and worked solely take-out. After five years, it was time to find a brick-and-mortar location.