On a frigid Friday afternoon, La Fonda El Taquito is buzzing with customers. Every table inside the Mexican restaurant is filled, and groups awaiting a seat chat by the bar and small stage, margaritas in hand.
“For those who haven’t experienced it, it’s sometimes hard for them to understand what a restaurant like this means in the community,” says Gene T. Chavez, a longtime customer and friend of the owners’ family. Chavez says he’s been coming to the restaurant since its first location was established just up the street.
“As I look around, there’s a lot of familiar faces, people I’ve known over the years,” he says. “And it’s always great, like greeting family, when you come here.”…