KSHB 41 reporter Olivia Acree covers portions of Johnson County, Kansas. Share your story idea with Olivia.
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As Kansas City celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, the spotlight is on the rich cultural tapestry woven through the community, particularly through food.
One area restaurant owner wants to introduce the community to the authentic flavors of Mexico he believes are overlooked.
Victor Esqueda arrived in Kansas City from Guadalajara, Mexico, 30 years ago.
He quickly found himself missing the traditional food from his home, which he also felt was missing from the local restaurant scene.
“The real Mexican food that will be lean, light and full of flavor. No greasy, no cheesy, no deep fried,” said Esqueda, co-owner of Ixtapa Fine Mexican Cuisine.
Esqueda decided to start his own restaurant.
He said Ixtapa Fine Mexican Cuisine aims to showcase traditional Mexican flavors while providing jobs and support to other members of the Latino community.
“It’s so funny when people have told us, 'Oh, my God, you have the best Mexican restaurants in town.' And say, 'No, we don't have the best. We have the only ones,'" Esqueda said.
However, Esqueda is facing challenges at his Overland Park location. He’s struggling to stay afloat amidst high taxes and costs.
“We have incredible reviews, but really what we need is more customers,” Esqueda said.
At a recent U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce convention held in Kansas City, event chair Jackie Puente highlighted the strength of the local Hispanic community and its Latino entrepreneurs.
“Kansas City has an amazing Hispanic community, an amazing number of Hispanic business leaders,” Puente said. “One important part of the Hispanic community and the Hispanic culture is entrepreneurship.”
As Kansas City embraces the diversity of Hispanic culture, Esqueda wants to share his heritage with even more residents.
“Let me give you the opportunity to show you what is our culture,” Esqueda said.
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