Their story began in New York City back in 2017, when Co-Founder, Alex Villarino saw the need for truly authentic Latin American products in other regions of the US other than NYC or Los Angeles. Three years later, they made the heartfelt decision to return to Oʻahu, Megahn Chun's birthplace. They longed for a place to start their family and find a strong sense of connection.
At Mercado de La Raza, they firmly believe in the extraordinary power of food to bring people together, regardless of their cultural backgrounds. It's a beautiful way to share our stories and build bridges between communities. Above all, they are dedicated to bringing the incredible flavors of their childhood, the richness of their heritage, and the diverse cultures they cherish to their new home: Oʻahu. Mercado de la Raza is a vibrant fusion of three core concepts: a gathering place for the Latino community, a Wholesale collaborator for local enterprises, and a specialized Latino grocery store. They want to create a platform that not only celebrates Latin culture but also empowers Latino entrepreneurs.