We always knew that Chicago was rich in Hispanic heritage, but it surprised even us to learn that it is now the 2nd largest population of Mexican immigrants in the United States, behind only Los Angeles. 670,000 Mexican-born residents now call the Windy City home.

Chicago’s rich Mexican culture started in full force in the 1920’s as Mexican migrants who had come to the Midwest to work in the agriculture industry, quickly realized that higher paying, better working conditions jobs could be had in the steel, automotive, and food manufacturing plants in Chicago.

By 1929, Second City had become the largest outpost for emigrating Mexicans outside of the Southwest, settling into areas of Chicago such as Pilsen and Little Village, or as it’s known to locals, “La Villita”.

In addition to a commitment to hard work and family, Mexican immigrants brought with them their traditional food culture and Chicago has quickly become one of the hotbeds for Mexican cuisine in the world.

And while Mexican restaurants of all tastes and sizes permeate the Chicago food landscape, getting that traditional, authentic Mexican taste at home in a healthy plant-based version has been challenging to residents. We are proud to say that we are filling that food void by making our Barbacoa, Cochinita Pibil, Pastor and our brand new Filet Asada available in grocery stores around Chicago.

Salud Chicago!