TEMPLE, Texas — Helados La Azteca, a Mexican-inspired ice cream store, is set to bring a taste of Mexico to Temple with its grand opening planned for a Friday in April.
To celebrate the grand opening, Helados La Azteca plans to offer one free paleta to all customers during the opening weekend.
Founded by the owner's father in the late 90s, the paleteria has been serving up a variety of Mexican treats, including homemade paletas, ice cream, mangonada, fruit cups, corn in a cup, raspas, and tostinoches.
With over 24 ice cream flavors and 50 popsicle flavors, the menu caters to both traditional and Mexican-inspired tastes such as tequila, mango, gansito, and rompope.
Starting from a single location in Waco, Texas, Helados La Azteca has expanded to seven locations, including three in the DFW area and three in Waco. The decision to open a new location in Temple was driven by the city's growing community and the warm reception received from locals.
"We feel like we offer a small slice of Mexico to those who have never been or those who simply miss our beloved Mexico," Eduardo Garcia, the owner, said.
The store prides itself on sourcing fresh produce locally to ensure the highest quality ingredients for its treats. Additionally, Helados La Azteca collaborates with other small businesses for giveaways and actively participates in supporting Hispanic organizations and local schools.
The store will operate seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and offers punch cards to reward loyal customers with discounts or free items after multiple visits.
"We aim to give every single guest the perfect experience of our culture, starting with our customer service. We want to make every one of our guests feel like they’re part of the Azteca Familia," Garcia said.
Looking ahead, the store has ambitious plans for further expansion, with a focus on reaching more communities south of Temple.
Garcia did not specify what Friday will be the grand opening date at the time this article was published.
6 News will update this story once we get a grand opening date.