Eduardo Robayo Dies: Kokoriko Founder & Colombian Chicken Icon

Eduardo Robayo Ferro, the Colombian entrepreneur and founder of the popular chicken restaurant chain Kokoriko, died Saturday at the age of 91, his wife Alba Lucía Gómez confirmed to Noticias Caracol. Robayo’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from business leaders and politicians across Colombia.

Robayo, along with Noé Cardona Cardona and Emilio Jordán Collazos, established Kokoriko in 1969 under the name Compañía Comercial e Industrial de Aves – AVESCO Ltda., according to reporting from El Universal and Infobae. The first location, ‘Las Colonias,’ opened in Bogotá, offering a simple menu of grilled chicken, potatoes, and arepas – a combination that quickly became a staple of Colombian cuisine.

Ferrán Martínez, a fellow entrepreneur, publicly expressed his grief on social media, writing, “The businessman Eduardo Robayo Ferro has died. A hug to his children Claudia, Eduardo and Carolina; his wife, Alba Lucía Gómez, and other family members.” Former Bogotá mayor Enrique Peñalosa described Robayo as a “great businessman, builder of the country and better human being,” as reported by Caracol Noticias.

Kokoriko rapidly expanded throughout Colombia, becoming one of the country’s most recognizable brands. By 2017, although, the Robayo family no longer held ownership of the chain. Control was consolidated by Inmaculada Guadalupe y Amigos (IGA), which now owns Kokoriko and other restaurant brands in the country, according to Caracol Noticias.

Despite the change in ownership, Robayo’s legacy continues to shape the Colombian food industry. Kokoriko currently operates 80 locations across at least 18 cities, competing with other major chains like Frisby, as noted in Infobae. The company released a statement lamenting Robayo’s passing, acknowledging his impact on the brand and the lives of those who worked alongside him.

Details regarding the circumstances of Robayo’s death and plans for a memorial service have not yet been released. The family is expected to provide further information in the coming hours.