For Maritza, every pupusa is a way to share the flavors of home while supporting her family.

Maritza has spent the past two years serving one of El Salvador's most recognizable dishes: fresh, handmade pupusas.

Originally from El Salvador, she enjoys preparing the traditional recipes she grew up with and introducing them to customers throughout Los Angeles. Every day begins long before customers arrive, as she prepares the food herself before opening the stand.

Maritza works about eight hours each day, typically from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m., balancing the demands of the business while raising her two children, ages 15 and 6.

For Maritza, street vending is more than a job. It's an opportunity to share a piece of her culture through food, creating handmade pupusas that remind many customers of home while introducing others to Salvadoran cuisine for the very first time.

Quick Facts

Name: Maritza

Business: Pupusería

Specialty: Handmade Pupusas

Origin: El Salvador

Time Here: 2 Years

Hours: Daily, 2 PM–9 PM

Family: Mother of Two

Favorite Part: Sharing Traditional Salvadoran Food

By Austin Iluore

Bringing El Salvador to Los Angeles