The menu functions like a tracklist, honoring artists Leonard grew up listening to in the 1990s and 2000s, including Notorious B.I.G., Lil Wayne, J. Cole, Fabolous and Kanye West.
“Some of them have multiple references and innuendos or double entendres tied into the song name and the items that are inside of it,” Leonard said. “It’s just kind of saluting the artists that I like to listen to.”
“Big Papa” empanada (brisket, bacon and Gouda cheeseburger fillings).QCity Metro
Offerings include “Respect” (Caribbean jerk oxtail), “No Limit” (Buffalo lemon pepper chicken) and the signature “Big Papa” (brisket, bacon and Gouda cheeseburger).
Leonard said he originally chose the name “Papa’s Empanadas,” but another business has already used it, and he wanted something different. Because his 8-ounce empanadas were already larger than traditional 3-ounce portions, adding “Big” finalized the brand and paid homage to his hip-hop influences.
Leonard chose to operate until 3:30 a.m. after encountering what he described as a lack of late-night food options when he moved back.
“When I came back, I couldn’t get food after 8 o’clock. It was ridiculous,” he said. “I wanted to add something that I knew we were missing, that I knew people would gravitate towards.”
Road ahead
With 14 years of experience as an executive chef, Leonard feels confident navigating Charlotte’s competitive restaurant scene.
“I feel very comfortable in what I’m doing,” he said. “And I think my food speaks for itself.”
Big Papa’s is running an extended soft opening so staff can cross-train on every station. A full grand opening featuring a DJ, updated exterior murals, and a covered patio will follow.
Know before you go:
Address: 1812 Rozzelles Ferry Road (The entrance is located on the Trade Street side next to the parking lot).Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 4 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. (Soft opening hours this week run 4 p.m. to midnight).
Dining and Cooking