Copacabana SF was founded by brothers Oliver and Alfonso Guzman Illanes, proud lifelong San Francisco residents with deep roots in the Excelsior and Ocean Avenue communities.
For as long as they can remember, music, culture, and community have been at the center of their lives. Growing up in San Francisco, they immersed themselves in the city's diverse arts scene and dedicated more than two decades to preserving Bolivian culture through folkloric dance. Today, they proudly serve as Board Members of Morenada San Francisco, an organization that has participated in the San Francisco Carnaval for over 10 years.
Beyond dance, Oliver and Alfonso have spent years promoting Latin American culture by organizing numerous successful concerts and cultural events throughout San Francisco. Through these events, they have had the privilege of bringing talented artists from Bolivia to perform in the Bay Area, allowing the community to experience and celebrate the richness of Bolivian music and culture. Their passion for sharing their heritage began long before Copacabana SF.
Their parents, Alfonso Eduardo and Anna, owned Delany's Restaurant (named after their daughter), a place where generations gathered to enjoy authentic Bolivian cuisine, music, and unforgettable memories. It was more than a restaurant, it was a cultural home where friendships were built, traditions were celebrated, and the Bolivian community came together.
After the passing of their beloved father, the brothers felt a deep responsibility to continue the legacy he left behind. They wanted to honor his life's work by creating another place where culture could be celebrated, traditions could be preserved, and future generations could remain connected to their roots.
His passion for bringing people together through music and community continues to inspire everything Copacabana SF represents today.
Inspired by the legendary Latin music venues that once helped shape cultural movements across the Americas, they founded Copacabana SF with one vision:
To create a modern cultural destination where live entertainment, music, dance, and artistic expression once again have a home in San Francisco.
Copacabana SF is a tribute to their father Alfonso Eduardo Guzman, to their family, to their community, and to every person who believes that culture is meant to be shared and celebrated.
Welcome to the Copacabana SF family!