Meet Elena Martinez of E Hijole Tacos & Catering

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Martinez.

Hi Elena, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Elena Martinez |
Owner & Chef, E Hijole Tacos & Catering

A family-run catering business that specializes in delivering authentic and high-quality tacos through our taco cart and drop-off catering services. In addition to our signature tacos, we offer a broad range of catering, providing diverse and customizable menus tailored to meet the unique preferences of our clients.
I began continuing education with Mi Casa Resource Center at the age of 19 to enhance my entrepreneurial skills. Eight years ago, my journey with E Hijole started as a humble venture driven by passion and a vision to demonstrate self-worth and independence to my daughters.

Now, alongside my husband Frank, I am dedicated to growing the business to leave a legacy for our children and grandchildren. I aim to show them through example that hard work and honest service truly pay off.
My family and I have personally experienced how learning to cook and starting a business can be life changing. It has helped us overcome obstacles and brought true purpose into our lives.

E Hijole is deeply committed to sustainability and community impact, supporting local organizations.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey hasn’t always been smooth. In the early days, success meant wearing every hat, from managing operations to personally handling customer service, learning to keep everything running smoothly. Those experiences taught me resilience and the value of hands-on involvement. Real growth came from building a team that truly feels like family: my loved ones and my husband, who have been pillars of support. Together, we navigate modern challenges, including maintaining sustainability and delivering great quality and service, turning vision into lasting achievement.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
E Hijole Tacos & Catering is a family-run catering business committed to providing memorable experiences through delicious food, prepared with fresh ingredients and love. We offer a wide range of catering options, including taco boxes, taco bars, taco carts, pasta bars, convenient lunch-to-go packages, appetizers, and customized menus.

Our mission is to serve high-quality, authentic Mexican food & full service catering that delights our customers and fosters a sense of community.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me are the people around me, my family, my reason for everything I do; my team, whose unwavering support makes it all possible; and our taco family, who let us share our passion and create moments of joy in their lives. I always say we only have one opportunity, it doesn’t matter how small or big the moment is, or how many times they ordered, it’s their first and only experience with us. I want everyone who tastes our food and service to feel the love and care we put into it. By fostering a positive environment where my team feels supported and inspired, we can make every guest feel truly special. For me, it’s about connection, joy, and making every experience memorable.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ehijoletacos.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehijole.tacos/
• Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaehijole/

Image Credits
The Big Eat 2024, Credit: Nikki A Rae photography.