Our Story
Puerto Peñasco is a town that takes care of its own. But every winter, seasonal layoffs, border slowdowns, and the unpredictable weight of hard times leave families stretched thin — and tables emptier than they should be.
In early 2024, a small group of passionate neighbors sat down together — sharing ideas, fueling each other's hope, and asking a simple question: What can we do? What came out of that conversation was something none of them could have fully predicted.
On February 24th, 2024, Empty Bowls Puerto Peñasco held its very first event, hosted by Renée Shearer at The Turquoise Door in Plaza San Miguel. It was a moment of pure community — and it worked. The response proved that this town shows up for its neighbors. That first event laid the foundation for everything that followed: more events, more partners, more bags packed, more tables filled.
This is what neighbors do. And we're just getting started.
Founding Team Members
It started with eight people and a belief that community could change things.
• Renée Shearer
• Chris Monatukwa
• DeeDee Freeman
• Pat Throgmorton
• Erin Cook
• Frank Cook
• Lourdes Peters
• Sonny Peters
Founding Partners
Our first event happened because of these four chefs and restaurants. They didn't wait to see if it would work. They just said yes.
Mickey Medina
Chef Mickey’s Place
Plaza del Sol, Freemont Blvd.
Phone: +52 638 388 9500
Laura Palacio
El Tapeo Wine Bar & Tapas
Laos Mar Hotel & Suites,
Playa Bonita
Phone: +52 638 380 5017
Chad & Fedra Poppin
Grapes & Barley
C. Jose Alcantar 20, El Puerto
Phone: +52 638 110 7810
Tony Acuña
Molly Molly Sushi
Avenida Sinaloa y Manuel Arista, Mirador
Phone: +52 638 107 1146
Empty Bowls February 2024 Inaugural Event
Video Created by: Yolanda Gutiérrez
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