Raspados, chicharones, and fruta preparada are all traditional street snacks that Luis Gonzales and his father, Enrique Gonzales, sell during lunchtime events. Two years ago the Gonzales family brought their food cart business to M-A.
L. Gonzales opened his business immediately after moving here from Mexico three years ago. He initially experienced some difficulties attending to customers on his own, leading him to partner with his father, E. Gonzales.
Former Leadership student Abigail Rojas coordinated the spring carnival event where L. Gonzales and E. Gonzales first sold snacks to M-A two years ago.
“I started in Redwood City because that’s where I found a greater Hispanic community,” L. Gonzales said. “That’s where I found Abby, who invited me here.”
“The thing I like most about selling at M-A is being around new people. I’ve heard different stories from students here. In a kind of way it’s calming because it keeps me entertained,” L. Gozales said.
The two prefer working at events like the ones hosted at M-A because it brings more consistent customers compared to selling on public streets.
“You can’t sell in just any random place, it’s important for us to plan ahead and find a spot where we are allowed,” E. Gonzales said.
A crucial aspect of their success is preparation. Paleteros and fruit vendors have a system where they communicate among themselves about where each will be selling, which helps them to avoid competition and stay informed about where they will get the most customers
“It’s nice here at M-A because we can sell a lot in a short period of time,” E. Gonzales said. “Still, I would like more time because we are never able to sell to all students by the time that lunch ends.”
“Our most popular item is the Raspado de coco con nuez,” L. Gonzales explained. For this item, coconut shaved ice is topped with almonds.
The Gonzales are always happy to serve students, and it’s evident in warm smiles and long lines that M-A students are always excited to have them back for events.
The two vendors are currently selling in Fremont.
