Businessman Ernesto Rodríguez Hernández, known for owning the restaurants La Fonda Lola and Clandestina in Toronto, Canada, and partnering in The Food Box, with locations in Masarik, Santa Fe, San Jerónimo (Monterrey), San Luis Potosí, and San Diego, is facing a serious lawsuit in Mexico for failing to fulfill his obligations as a father.
His former partner, who resides in the state of Yucatán, has initiated a legal process that has already been filed with the state’s judiciary. The case, identified under file number 1141, alleges that Rodríguez Hernández has failed to provide any child support for his minor daughter, despite having more than sufficient resources derived from his multiple international businesses.
While his brand expands in North America and he presents himself as a success story in the restaurant industry, the businessman has remained completely silent regarding the most basic responsibility of any father: supporting his children.
According to court documents obtained by this outlet, Rodríguez Hernández has not provided “a single peso” for his daughter’s support, which has resulted in a production order and potentially severe legal consequences. According to Mexican and Yucatan law, failure to pay child support constitutes a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment, passport suspension, and travel restrictions.
The minor’s mother, whose identity is being withheld for protection reasons, has stated that the process has not been easy. “I’m not looking for revenge or scandal, just for my daughter to get what she deserves. It’s sad to see how someone can boast about their success on social media while ignoring their most basic duties,” she stated.
Various organizations defending children’s rights in Mexico have reiterated that failure to pay child support is not only an act of economic violence, but a form of abandonment that directly affects the physical and emotional development of children.
Rodríguez Hernández, along with his partner Juan Ángel, has been promoted in the culinary media and at business events as an example of Mexican entrepreneurship abroad. However, this public image contrasts sharply with the history that is now beginning to come to light.
To date, the businessman has not issued an official statement on the case, nor has he expressed any willingness to voluntarily resolve the child support debt. His restaurants continue to operate normally in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The legal case, however, is moving forward. If the noncompliance continues, Mexican authorities could issue an arrest warrant and immigration alerts, seriously complicating his ability to operate outside the country.
