Q: How long has Loteria been at The Market? 
A: Since day 1 of The Market being open in 2012! 
 
Q: Describe your restaurant in a few words: 
A: Artisanal. From scratch. Ground-up. A local graffiti artist created the mural on our walls- we embrace creativity here. 
 
Q: What is your favorite dish you make? 
A: Our San Jose Burrito- it’s bomb! 
 
Q: What is the inspiration behind most of your recipes? 
A: We try to think outside the box- using fresh ingredients and different cuts of meat. I was born and raised in San Jose. I grew up with my Grandmother who was an amazing cook- always eating what she would make. I am first generation and my family is from Leon, Mexico. I went to the SF Culinary Academy where I got an AA in Culinary Arts. This all has formed my inspiration to own a restaurant embracing the Mexican cuisine.

Q: What is an interesting cooking technique you use? 
A: My favorite is slow-braising because of the effect it has on the proteins. When you bite into it, it’s super soft and succulent. Pork cheeks cooked this way is my personal preference. 

Q: In a nutshell, what led up to you starting your restaurant? 
A: My brother-in-law brought me over here when The Market Bar was first opening and suggested I start a taco bar. At the time I was working corporate and took a chance to express my ethnic background and culinary experience.

Q: What is your favorite part about San Pedro Square?

A: Seeing the growth and diversity is amazing. It’s very exciting to see it developing- the future here is very bright.

Q: What is the most fun thing you’ve done in Downtown San Jose?

A: Grow up here!

Q: Give us a few fun facts about yourself:
A: I’m a retro VW enthusiast, I attended the first 3 Burning Man festivals, I’m an avid toy collector and I’ve been skateboarding over 35 years!