“Un pedazo de hogar en el corazón de muchos México-Americanos.” That’s what they say about El Mercado de Los Ángeles. El Mercado is often called “El Mercadito” by locals. It embodies the traditional Mexican cultural identity of the Eastside.
El Mercado de Los Ángeles is more than just a market. It is a place for the community to embrace their culture.
Founded in 1968 by Art Chaya, El Mercado originally served Mexican, Japanese, and Italian communities. It stands on the former site of the Boyle Heights Lumber Company. The variety of cultures, products, and foods boosted its appeal to outside visitors.
In 1988 Pedro Rosado bought El Mercado. He dedicated the building to becoming a piece of Mexico away from Mexico. Vendors brought in goods like leather boots and mole. Folklorico dresses and chicharrones also appeared. El Mercado became known for elaborate mariachi performances. Musicians recreate the practice of working al talon like they would in Mexico.
The building has evolved. Its original spirit and purpose have sustained. El Mercado has a large interior courtyard. It features a red-tiled roof, an arcade and two-story arches.
In 1991 Jose-Luis Gonzalez designed a mural. It is a bas-relief, mosaic tile mural. It is on the first level of the western elevation. The mural is called Mayan Rain God. It depicts abstract representations of the ancient Mayan deity.
Visitors rave about El Mercado’s chili-topped mango. They also love the diablitos. These are shaved-ice treats served with chili sauce. Mango and chili-lime seasoning add flavor. Some prefer apples with tamarind. Others choose raspados de vanilla.
Wendy Gonzalez works at one of the leather boot shops. She loves that El Mercado serves as a cultural hub. She says that the culture just gets bigger. Many people from different countries come to visit.
Maria Teresa Fuentes Hernandez has worked at El Mercado for over 13 years. She sells shoes. She says the familiarity brings comfort and peace. People say it reminds them of their hometowns in Mexico.
Aileen Trejo has been visiting El Mercado for years. Her family would visit her mother’s friend. Stopping by El Mercado for junk food was convenient. She says it is the closest thing she has that reminds her of Mexico.
El Mercado de Los Ángeles has a rich history. It is a place where community thrives. It is a taste of Mexico in Los Angeles.