Bringing the Latin flavors of Los Angeles street food to Fort Wayne.

Johnny Perez has been in the restaurant and hospitality industry for a while now, working with big names in the restaurant business. But now, he’s venturing on his own to create a food truck experience that is true to his own heritage and background.

Johnny’s story begins in high school. He studied culinary arts at Anthis, a program that helps students gain practical career skills at an earlier age. He went on to study culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island and rounded out his education with a hospitality management degree from Purdue University Fort Wayne.

From there, he worked at BakerStreet, managed front-of-house at Hoppy Gnome, and became the head chef at Proximo. His behind-the-scenes work at these restaurants has been influential in the growth of the restaurant market in Fort Wayne.

He wants to make an even bigger splash with Mercadito Taqueria.

Mercadito means “little market” in Spanish. Mexican grocery stores often have taquerias tucked in the corner for shoppers to get authentic tacos and tortas. This space can serve as a gathering place for people in the community to share stories and gossip.

The food truck offers Los Angeles street food, but what exactly can you expect when you go to Mercadito Taqueria?

Los Angele is a hub for Latin-inspired food and flavors. Johnny offers stylized street food, globally-inspired options, and products with personal spins that are unique to Mercadito Taqueria.

Johnny supplements business from the food truck with catering options and will cater for your cat’s 5th birthday party (or weddings, quinceaneras, and company lunches).

Eventually, Johnny hopes to bring Mercadito Taqueria into the brick and mortar space as a fast-casual dining experience. In the long term, Mercadito Taqueria will become a full-service restaurant that provides bar service and flavorful sit-down experience.