It started in a backyard. A grill going, a stack of tortillas, la familia gathered around a table. Tacos first, then more. Word spread, requests followed, and soon the calendar filled with events.
After catering to more than 50 events, the team behind La Estación chose the next step: turning the weekend gig into a full-time business. They wanted to give Brownsville a place that felt like those family gatherings, just open to everyone.
They found it on Filmore Street, a long-quiet spot untouched for over 15 years, waiting for the right idea to open its doors again.
“We instinctively knew this was the ideal location for our business,” they shared.
What came next was dedication and hard work—determination, late nights, and a plan to build a food and snack destination that honors Brownsville’s taste—tacos and tortas, raspas, and chili cheese dogs.
“La Estación brings along all of the comforts of Brownsville,” Victor Pena, owner of La Estación, said.
The journey of getting started and getting all the necessary permits led them to a new partner. While applying through the City of Brownsville, they found BCIC and the Business Improvement and Growth program. They checked eligibility and moved fast.
“We decided to apply, knowing that this would be a fundamentally great opportunity for us to get our business up and running.”
BCIC’s BIG program funding moved the project forward. Exterior work, the kind you notice when you walk by, came first.
“The exterior upgrades consisted of painting, light fixture replacements, and electrical system enhancements,” they detailed.
Inside, the list grew: plumbing renovations, electrical outlet upgrades, new fixtures, and fresh paint. The grant stretched their budget and freed up bootstrapped funds for equipment, the essentials you need to serve a rush.
“The changes made to the existing structure are 100% noticeably different,” they said. “We were able to upgrade the lighting, windows, paint, and numerous other things to get us up to inspection standards.”
Three months after opening, the neighborhood responded. Regulars started to appear, and first-time visitors became fans. The place felt lived in, not because of age but because people kept showing up.
“Our neighboring clientele has brought back great positive feedback to us, stating that the neighborhood needed a spot like ours.”
La Estación is a hub. Private events, pop-ups, and collaborations with local businesses. The new location gives customers a taste before they book catering.
“We have been blessed to collaborate with different organizations and event venues that have aided us in recommendations for future events.”
And there is finally a place to send people when they ask where to find them.
“In the past, we were often asked if we had a permanent location. Now, we are blessed to be able to spread the word that we are located on 710 E. Filmore St.”
The next chapter is already drafted.
“Our goal and aspiration is to expand our location in the near future to have a sit-down location where you can enjoy the beautiful view of the indoor farmers market.”
Their advice for other entrepreneurs is practical and generous. “To small business owners, I suggest leveraging this opportunity by consulting with the BCIC team to better comprehend how it can benefit your business.”
And their reflection is simple. “BCIC has greatly facilitated my business operations and made my experience as seamless as possible.”
From a family idea to a neighborhood gem, La Estación shows what happens when passion meets follow-through, and when local support makes the timing work. Brownsville asked for a spot like this. Now it has one.
This story was originally written by Mariangela Espinoza, BCIC’s Home to Texas Intern in Summer 2025, and edited by Nelson Amaro, BCIC’s Director of Marketing & Communications.