Today we’d like to introduce you to Lucy De Leon.
Hi Lucy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey started working in the agricultural fields at a young age, where I learned the value of hard work, community, and food. Today, I share authentic Mexican flavors through my restaurants and food production business, serving schools, local markets, and beyond. I’m passionate about creating opportunities, building connections and inspiring other women, especially Latinas, to grow and pursue their dreams.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been an easy road. There have been many challenges along the way, both personally and professionally, but each experience taught me resilience and the importance of not giving up. I’ve learned that growth comes through hard work, faith, and staying committed to your vision even during difficult times.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am proud to be a Latina owned business known for producing authentic Mexican food in Portland in a creative and unique way. We are always trying to bring color, culture, and tradition into what we do. For example, we make our signature pink tortillas using fresh beet juice that we boil and blend naturally for color, and at another restaurant we use blue corn to make blue tortillas. One of our restaurants is pink-themed and the other is blue-themed, reflecting our creativity and love for Mexican culture.
What sets us apart is not only our food, but the heart behind our business. I am most proud that we get to serve our Mexican food to schools throughout Oregon and be part of students’ lunches. It means a lot to share our culture with the next generation through food.
When people support our restaurants and businesses, they are also supporting local growers, local producers, and our team. Most of my staff are women, many of them single mothers, and several have been with us for years. Creating opportunities, building community, and staying true to our roots is at the center of everything we do.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories was traveling to different states with my parents and siblings as we followed agricultural work in the fields. There were times when we didn’t even have a place to stay, and we would sleep in the car. But as a child, all that mattered to me was that I had my mom and dad with me. To me, it felt like an adventure, almost like camping. Those experiences taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Lapatroncitapdx.com
- Instagram: @lapatroncitapdx
- Facebook: lapatroncitapdx
