This week has been a somber one for the San Antonio restaurant scene after Leche de Tigre broke the news about the sudden death of its co-founder, Axel Oliva. In addition to condolences, community members have been contributing to an online fundraiser to support Oliva’s loved ones during this difficult time.
Leche de Tigre announced Oliva’s passing in a heartfelt post on Tuesday, March 31, asking for privacy while the family behind the restaurant grieves the 31-year-old who passed on March 29. Oliva opened Leche de Tigre with his brothers, Alec and Emil Oliva, in 2023, and the restaurant soon became lauded for its Peruvian fare and top-notch hospitality.
After Leche de Tigre’s post, a family friend, Joshua Hernandez, created a GoFundMe to cover the cost of “funeral expenses and immediate bills.” With an initial goal of $12,000, the GoFundMe has exceeded $14,000 as of 2:33 p.m. on Thursday, April 2. MySA reached out to Hernandez for comment via the GoFundMe contact form, and we will update this story if and when we hear back.
“To know Axel is to love him. A kind, gentle, and nurturing soul to the patrons of his beloved restaurant, but above all, an incredible son and brother to his beautiful family. Always nurturing the community with the power of hospitality and love for humanity and nature,” the GoFundMe said.
A public memorial for Oliva will be held at 5 p.m. today, Thursday, April 2, at Porter Loring Mortuary at 1101 McCullough Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212.