This Hispanic Heritage Month, we had the chance to talk to some of our Hispanic DTOP business leaders about their heritage, their community, and their culture. The 2024 theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” According to the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers, the theme – “signifies the diversity inherent within the Hispanic and Latino communities, as well as strength that comes with unity.” These business leaders are shaping the future of our Downtown Oak Park community in the work that they do and the community they are building.

EcoKarat Jewelry Oak Park
131 N Marion
Jose Torres, Owner

At EcoKarat Jewelry, they celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by highlighting the journey of their Master Jeweler, Jose Torres, whose roots and heritage have been central to his success. His focus on sustainable jewelry is influenced by his cultural values, which define his work ethic, his craftsmanship, and his impact on his community.

There isn’t just one piece of jewelry that celebrates the cultural artistry that defines Jose’s Ecuadorian heritage – all the custom pieces he creates are inspired by traditional Ecuadorian designs.

Jose chose to open his business here because we’re more than just a business district. “It’s a community. The vibrant culture and support within Downtown Oak Park allow us to thrive, connect with diverse people, and build lasting relationships with clients who value artistry and sustainability in jewelry,” said Jose.

For more information, click here or follow them on Instagram.

Vigo Coffee
1100 Lake St Ste 100B.
Brisa Rangel, Owner

Brisa Rangel, owner of Vigo Coffee, celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by visiting Latin restaurants to honor and appreciate their creativity and contributions to the United States.

At Vigo Coffee, Brisa’s Mexican culture is in every sip of their handcrafted signature lattes made with ingredients from Mexico fusing flavors from around the world. Their famous Horchata Latte is made with a 100-year-old family recipe, their Dark Chocolate Vineyards, prepared with wine from the Valle de Guadalupe and Dutch cocoa, and their popular Café de Olla, featuring orange peel, anise, cloves, cinnamon, and piloncillo.

For Brisa, opening Vigo Coffee here was about finding a community open to collaboration. “As newcomers to the community, we were seeking new channels of contact; however, we have found much more within this group—talented individuals, full of knowledge, always willing to help and support local businesses. We have discovered a space that has allowed us to collaborate with the community and have a greater impact,” said Brisa

For more information, click here or follow them on Instagram.

Tre Sorelle
1111 Lake St.
Roberto Carlos, General Manager

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is a family affair for Tre Sorelle General Manager Roberto Carlos. They host a family reunion where they enjoy food, customs, traditions, and music from their Mexican culture. Food is a big part of their party; they enjoy family recipes for handmade tamales, mole, and pozole.

When Roberto isn’t eating at home, he enjoys the Huarache al Pastor at Tacos El Tio #4 and the Tacos de Pollo at Boss Burrito.

Roberto has worked at Tre Sorelle for over twenty years, and the people make the community. “The people of Oak Park make it the perfect place for our restaurant. Not only are the customers great, but the people who work at the Downtown Oak Park Business Alliance help us with the business resources we need and are a great benefit to being here.”

For more information, click here or follow them on Instagram.