Puerto Rican couple leads Central Florida’s food and business community

Dianne Santos and Hiram Turull, an influential Puerto Rican couple, have become prominent figures in the Central Florida food and business community, leaving an indelible mark on the local community. Since establishing their first El Cilantrillo restaurant in Kissimmee in 2017, the couple has exemplified an unstoppable entrepreneurial spirit, expanding their culinary enterprises and venturing into various businesses, including Don Turull Cafe, Don Turull Cigars, Turull’s Boquería Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Nona’s Urban Pizza, and the recent addition of Beaute Salon in Orlando.

Their story of success unfolds as they continuously expand their footprint, with a fourth El Cilantrillo location set to open in Old Town Kissimmee, occupying a spacious 7,300-square-foot venue to cater to a diverse audience, including families, sports teams, and special events. This upcoming venture, born in response to customer demand, is expected to become the largest in the area, accommodating 400 to 450 people both indoors and outdoors.

The couple's commitment to preserving the flavors of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the island, and evoking a sense of nostalgia has resonated with locals and tourists alike in the Kissimmee area. El Cilantrillo, in particular, specializes in Puerto Rican cuisine, offering generous family-style dishes.

In their latest endeavor, Nona’s Urban Pizza, which opened in the Lake Nona area, the couple invested $100,000 to bring a family-focused concept to life. Recognizing Lake Nona's rapid growth and family-friendly environment, they envisioned a place where parents could bring their children after school or sports practices. The pizzeria, characterized by an urban, colorful, and fun concept, offers diverse menu options, including pizzas with Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Venezuelan flavors, various pastas, and desserts.

Reflecting on their success, the couple emphasizes maintaining the authenticity of traditional foods, creating an ambiance reminiscent of Puerto Rico, and eliciting a sense of nostalgia that resonates with both locals and tourists. Their commitment to preserving their cultural identity while contributing to the local community has earned them recognition, including the prestigious El Josco Award as the 2023 Small Business of the Year.

Beyond their culinary ventures, Hiram Turull represents Don Turull Cafe, a 100% Puerto Rican coffee, and Don Turull Cigars. Their most recent project, Beaute Salon, initiated by Dianne Santos, offers a range of services, including hair care and body massages, along with an exclusive clothing line for Hispanic women.

Actively involving their children in their business decisions, the couple manages a team of over 187 employees across their Central Florida establishments. As the holiday season approaches, the couple underscores the importance of making time for family amid their busy schedule, reinforcing their commitment to both business success and community impact.