El Salvador continues revitalizing its Historic Center with the opening of a new Starbucks store on the renovated Rubén Darío Street, inside the restored Antonio Bou Building—an architectural landmark originally built between 1923 and 1927. This milestone, achieved with the support of President Nayib Bukele’s government, highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage while promoting sustainable urban development and investment.
Minister of Tourism Morena Valdez emphasized the importance of historic centers as anchors of identity and economic growth. “Historic centers consolidate cultural identity and connect history. They are also important because they attract more tourists and generate jobs,” she stated. Valdez expressed pride in the transformation of San Salvador’s Historic Center, noting that “many stories of our beloved diaspora will come together here.”
Tourism continues to play a key role in El Salvador’s economic growth, representing 10% of the national GDP and generating over 340,000 jobs. As of October 2025, the country has welcomed 3.1 million international visitors, with a goal of reaching 4 million by year’s end.
Starbucks representative Héctor Viche expressed gratitude to the Salvadoran government for its support and reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to the country. “What was once a dream is now a beautiful reality. The Antonio Bou building has been carefully restored to respect its heritage value while integrating sustainable operations,” he said. “This is the first community store in Latin America dedicated to a community, filled with art crafted by Salvadoran hands.”
Adriana Larín, Director General of the Salvadoran Coffee Authority, praised President Bukele’s leadership in rebuilding the nation and fostering private investment. “Starbucks has invested nearly one million dollars in this restoration project, creating over 180 new jobs,” she noted. “We are generating formal employment and building a better future for new generations.”