Every evening, Saida and Cristina work together preparing traditional Mexican dishes for customers across Los Angeles.

Late one evening, I met Saida and Cristina as they worked side by side behind their food stand. While one prepared tortillas, the other helped keep orders moving, their teamwork making the busy dinner rush look effortless.

Originally from Chiapas, Mexico, both women enjoy serving customers and sharing the traditional dishes they grew up with. Their stand specializes in soups, shrimp, fish, and other homemade meals, with their signature soup remaining the most popular item on the menu.

They work every day from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., serving around 25 customers on a good evening. Like many street vendors, every shift depends on preparation, consistency, and working together to keep the business running smoothly.

Watching Saida and Cristina work made it clear that street vending is rarely a one-person effort. Behind every meal is a partnership built on trust, teamwork, and the shared goal of serving their community.

Quick Facts

Names: Saida & Cristina

Business: Mexican Food Stand

Origin: Chiapas, Mexico

Specialties: Soup, Shrimp & Fish

Most Popular Item: Homemade Soup

Hours: Daily, 5 PM–9:30 PM

Roles: Employees

Favorite Part: Serving Customers

By Austin Iluore

Side by Side