In March 2011 “Mi Patria” opened becoming the first and only Ecuadorian restaurant in Des Moines. Owner Cesar Miranda (Ecuadorian) with more than fifteen years of experience in the restaurant business, accomplished his dream by bringing the aromas and flavors of his country to Des Moines. A customer of the restaurant stated, “I never imagined finding an Ecuadorian restaurant in Iowa”. This gives us an idea of the challenges Cesar Miranda encountered. Before opening the restaurant, Cesar and his wife Delilah exploited every opportunity to prepare, serve and sell their dishes in the different festivals and fairs in the area. They attended World Food Festivals for over four years in Des Moines.