L.A. Taquería Thrives After Super Bowl Halftime Feature
Victor Villa’s taquería, Villa’s Tacos, has become a local sensation following its feature during the Super Bowl halftime show with Bad Bunny. On the day after the event, a queue of customers formed outside the restaurant in Highland Park, Los Angeles, starting as early as 7 a.m. Villa, who recently made an appearance alongside the global superstar, engaged with fans, leading them in a cheer that highlighted his restaurant’s name.
L.A. Taquería Thrives After Super Bowl Halftime Feature
After the halftime show, Villa witnessed a surge in interest as fans of all ages flocked to taste his acclaimed tacos. The excitement extended beyond tacos, reflecting a moment of pride for the immigrant community, as Villa emphasized the importance of love and community in the face of adversity. This sentiment echoed in the atmosphere of the restaurant, where Bad Bunny’s music played and visuals from the halftime performance were displayed.
Villa’s Tacos: A Growing Legacy
Villa started his culinary journey as a sidewalk pop-up in 2018, eventually moving to York Boulevard. His Highland Park storefront opened in 2023, further solidifying his presence in the food scene. His culinary contributions earned him spots in the L.A. Times 101 List and recognition in the Michelin Guide. Customers lined up for his signature tacos, known for their fresh, handmade blue corn tortillas and rich flavors.
- Notable Dates:
- 2018: Villa’s Tacos began as a pop-up.
- 2023: Opening of the Highland Park storefront.
- 2024: Launch of a stall in Grand Central Market.
Villa recounted receiving a call last December from Bad Bunny’s team, inviting him to participate in the halftime show. His family, who played critical roles in running the taquería, were overjoyed to celebrate both the Super Bowl and his mother’s 60th birthday simultaneously. This connection to family and culture was reinforced by their shared experiences and love for the community.
Community Impact and Message
Villa’s appearance was seen as a beacon of hope for immigrants, coming at a time when fear surrounding immigration issues loomed large in the community. He expressed solidarity with immigrant workers, underscoring the importance of their contributions to society. The positive representation from Bad Bunny’s performance sent a strong message about the dignity and hard work of street vendors.
- Customer Experiences:
- Many patrons were first-time visitors eager to try Villa’s renowned tacos.
- Regular customers returned to show support after the Super Bowl exposure.
Victor Villa’s story exemplifies resilience and cultural pride, demonstrating how food can transcend barriers and foster understanding. As his taquería continues to gain recognition, the hope remains that it will inspire further support for local businesses within the community.
