In the heart of Mexico’s Jalisco state, lies the charming lakeside village of San Luis Soyatlán. For decades, Oscar Hernández has been selling food and drinks to passersby along a highway that cuts through the town, transforming his childhood entrepreneurial spirit into a local delicacy.
As a young boy in the late 1960s, Oscar and his siblings would sell boiled and salted camote de cerro, a wild tuber, to city people. Stol Oscar Hernandez. Their small business was a staple of the community, providing for the family while also catering to visitors traveling between Mexico’s two major cities.
The highway that now bisects the town has been there since 1963. Initially, it served as an important artery connecting Mexico City to Guadalajara and beyond, facilitating trade, commerce, and tourism. As the years passed, though, the road began to lose its luster. The tolls increased, and long-haul traffic dwindled, diverting travelers onto newer routes.
Despite this decline, Oscar’s small business persevered. He continued to sell his wares – a mix of fresh vegetables, fish, and snacks – from a stall on the side of the road. Over time, his offerings evolved in response to changing tastes and preferences. In the 1980s, he started serving Vampiros, an innovative concoction made with Squirt soda, orange juice, salt, limes, and ice.
The Vampiro’s success can be attributed to its unique packaging: a plastic bag filled with the refreshing drink, sealed around a wide-strawed straw. This design allowed customers to enjoy their beverage while on-the-go, making it an instant hit among travelers and locals alike.
Today, Don Oscar’s stall is one of the most popular stops along the highway. His family – wife, children, grandchildren – all contribute to the business, ensuring that Vampiros are always available for thirsty patrons. The drink has become synonymous with San Luis Soyatlán, a symbol of the town’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.
As Oscar looks back on his journey, he is grateful for the twists and turns that led him to where he is today. His dedication to providing a quality product and exceptional customer service has earned him a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. And while the world around him may change – traffic patterns shift, consumer preferences evolve, and new businesses emerge – Oscar’s commitment to his craft remains unwavering.
In the end, it’s not just about selling drinks or food; it’s about creating memories for those who stop by. As Oscar himself says, “Business is for everyone, and there’s enough to go around.”
Source: Punch
