Passion for Food and Family: Jesus González Castorena
Tara A. Spears
The young tradesmen of our community use their talents to provide amenities for the public. Kinaesthetically gifted, they enjoy producing with their hands. That’s why this series intends to applaud and share the stories of Jaltemba Bay tradesmen. The author selected each individual as an example of a particular aspect of Mexican culture in order to highlight the diversity that collectively makes this country so vibrant and appealing.
One of the first things one recognizes about Mexican culture is the deep commitment to family and tradition. Jesus Gonzalez Castorena, chef and owner of restaurant Expresso89 in north La Penta, combines his passion for his family with his love for cooking. Not only does Jesus limit the restaurant hours 8:30 am till 4:00 pm in order to have ample time with his children, but the charming restaurant is very kid friendly.
Go to Facebook expression89 to see a menu or to make a reservation.
Jesus speaks English if you call or text 322 369 5049. The restaurant accepts credit cards, offers gift certificates, large group reservations, and you can call ahead to pick up orders for breakfast, specialty coffee bar drinks, desserts, and rental of the establishment and staff for special events.
When asked how he selected his menu items, Jesus replied,”I chose my family’s favorites with the entrees inspired by our morning and midnight cravings.” Since the Expresso89 has marvelous specialty coffee options, Jesus draws on his childhood favorites for selecting cookie and cheesecake options to go with the snazzy coffees. Jesus is also inspired by the availability of local fruits and is constantly adding to the menu. “I prefer to make almost every component myself (bread, sauces, pickles, seasonings, meat mixtures, fries, etc) to make our food even more special for our guests.” It is this devotion to quality and unique combinations that makes the food at Expresso89 so flavorful.
If you are a fan of mellow mornings beginning with coffee and a robust breakfast and quiet conversation, this is your spot! The flavorful array of breakfast choices will appeal to you. Or if you wake up later and want a tasty brunch, Jesus can offer several amazing dishes ranging from shrimp and meat burrito, ribeye sandwich to various salads. Of course, you can also take home fresh baked croissants! “I really enjoy cooking for others and generating a moment of satisfaction in people with my food. It means so much to me to have repeat customers.”
When Jesus is not baking and cooking in the restaurant, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Evelyn, and his two children, Helene and Jonathon. The new baby is expected at Christmas. Jesus was born in Aguascalientes but chose to open his business here due to the market potential and to be near extended family. You can find him playing soccer with his kids or playing on the beach.
Jesus defines the qualities of a modern Mexican man this way: “The young Mexicans are aspirational. We like to know that we work because we want to achieve goals, to care for our family. It is also true that we like to learn many things from the environment because we realize it’s importance.”
Jesus embodies another element that defines Mexican culture- a strong sense of innovation and appreciation of technology. Check out his kitchen and you will see the latest cooking innovations; he also markets his products online. He even has a brick pizza oven on the back patio.
In Mexico, cooking is a serious art form and a national past-time. Not only is food preparation a rich source of history and culture but a fun way to meet new people. Once you experience the calm, relaxing atmosphere and delicious food of Expresso 89 you’ll be back for more! Thank you to gifted craftsman and family man Jesus for enriching our JB community with his wonderful food.
Part 2 of 5 articles. Contact the author Facebook- jbayter Spr
