We had the good fortune of connecting with Holanda Delgado Real Adan Trejo Tolentino and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Holanda Delgado Real, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
The most important thing we’ve done as parents is teaching our children that challenges don’t define them. Through our own example, we’ve tried to show them the value of hard work, perseverance, faith, and kindness. Life hasn’t always been easy, but we want them to see that with determination and a positive attitude, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. More than anything, I hope they always feel loved, supported, and confident in who they are.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Taquería El DF was born from our love for authentic Mexico City street food and our desire to share a piece of our culture with the Houston community. As immigrants and entrepreneurs, we wanted to create a place where people could experience the flavors we grew up with—from suadero tacos and huaraches to fresh aguas frescas and traditional Mexican dishes that are not always easy to find outside of Mexico.

What sets us apart is our commitment to authenticity, quality, and family. We are not a large restaurant group or a franchise. We are a family-owned business that is personally involved in every aspect of the restaurant. Our customers are not just customers to us; many have become friends and part of our extended community.

Getting to where we are today was definitely not easy. Like many small business owners, we faced financial challenges, long hours, unexpected obstacles, and moments of uncertainty. There were times when we questioned whether we could keep going. Running a restaurant requires sacrifice, persistence, and the willingness to adapt when things do not go as planned.

What helped us overcome those challenges was our determination, our support for one another, and our belief that every setback carries a lesson. We learned that success is not about never failing—it is about continuing to move forward, even when the path is difficult. We learned the importance of listening to our customers, staying true to our values, and never losing sight of why we started.

What we are most proud of is not simply owning a restaurant; it is creating a place that brings people together. Food has a unique way of connecting people, and knowing that families, friends, and neighbors gather around our food is incredibly rewarding.

If there is one thing we want people to know about our brand and our story, it is that Taquería El DF represents hard work, perseverance, family, and authenticity. Our journey is proof that dreams can be built one day at a time, and we hope our story encourages others to pursue their own, even when the road is challenging.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Houston for a week, I would want them to experience the city the way locals do—through its incredible food, diverse culture, and unique attractions.

We would start with breakfast at a local Mexican bakery and then explore the Museum District, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts. In the evening, we would walk through Hermann Park and enjoy dinner at one of Houston’s amazing restaurants.

Of course, a stop at Taquería El DF would be a must! I would introduce them to authentic Mexico City street food, including suadero tacos, huaraches, and our homemade horchata. Houston has one of the most diverse food scenes in the country, and I love sharing the flavors that remind me of home.

Another day would include exploring Downtown Houston, Discovery Green, and catching a game or event if one is happening. We would also visit The Galleria, not just for shopping but to experience one of Houston’s most iconic destinations.

For a more relaxed day, I would take them to Buffalo Bayou Park to enjoy the skyline views and then head to one of Houston’s many coffee shops. If they enjoy art, we would spend time exploring local galleries and murals around the city.

No Houston visit would be complete without spending time in the city’s international neighborhoods. One of the things I love most about Houston is that you can experience cultures from all over the world without ever leaving the city.

What makes Houston special is its people. It is a city built by dreamers, entrepreneurs, and families from every background imaginable. The food, the culture, and the diversity make it one of the most exciting places to live, and that is what I would want my friend to experience most.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Together, we are deeply grateful for our children, who inspire us every day to work hard, grow, and build a better future. They remind us what truly matters and motivate us to keep moving forward.

We are also thankful for each other. Building a business, raising a family, and navigating life’s ups and downs has required teamwork, patience, and mutual support. The encouragement we have given one another has been an important part of our story.

Finally, we would like to thank our customers, friends, and the Houston community. As the owners of Taquería El DF, we are incredibly grateful for everyone who has supported us along the way. Every visit, recommendation, and word of encouragement has helped make our journey possible.

For Holanda, faith in God has been a source of strength, guidance, and hope through life’s challenges and opportunities.

Website: https://taqueriaeldf.com

Instagram: mexican_street_food_el_df

Facebook: Taqueria El D.F

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.