Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Ines.
Hi Maria Ines, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey began in late 2022 when I made the decision to pursue a future in a mobile food truck. With the help of my sister mentoring me we launched Taqueria Luna. It’s been an incredible adventure—marked by sleepless nights, unexpected challenges, and a whirlwind of emotions. Building a brand from the ground up has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Each day brings new lessons, and learning to face obstacles head-on rather than stress over them has truly reshaped my character.
My love for food and cooking was born in my childhood in Mexico, inspired by the incredible women in my life—my mother and grandmother. From a young age, I was captivated by watching my mother prepare meals for our family, always eager to lend a helping hand in the kitchen. She remains my greatest inspiration, not only for the recipes we serve but also for the name of our business, Taqueria Luna.
Our most popular dish, the Queso Birria Tacos, is a treasured recipe from my mother. This single dish has been a cornerstone of our success, helping our business grow year after year. When we first introduced it, we were preparing around 25 pounds of birria meat weekly. Today, we cook upwards of 80 pounds each week to meet the demand.
Operating from a food trailer does come with its limitations, but it also gives us the opportunity to focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional quality, maintaining consistency, and providing outstanding customer service. Every challenge we face is a chance to learn and grow, and this journey continues to shape who I am—both as a chef and as a business owner.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not—each challenge has provided us with valuable lessons.
Launching a mobile food truck business has come with its share of obstacles. From navigating complex permitting and regulatory requirements to managing unexpected equipment failures, we’ve faced numerous situations that have tested our patience and resilience.
One of the most significant challenges was learning to operate efficiently within the limited space of a food trailer. This constraint pushed us to innovate our workflow and streamline our menu, allowing us to prioritize quality over quantity.
Beyond the logistical hurdles, the emotional demands have been equally intense—long hours, financial pressures, and the weight of building a business from the ground up. However, our passion for food and the unwavering support of our community have been constant sources of motivation. Each setback became a stepping stone, strengthening our resolve and shaping our growth. Today, we are proud of how far we’ve come and excited for what lies ahead.
Another considerable challenge has been finding reliable and dedicated team members. There were times when I had to manage the entire operation on my own. I’m incredibly grateful to my nieces and nephew, whose support during those critical moments helped keep our business running smoothly through uncertain times.
Yet, the most difficult aspect has been the limited time I get to spend with my wonderful five-year-old daughter and my amazing husband. Running a business is a full-time commitment—six days a week filled with food preparation, cleaning, customer engagement, accounting, and supply management.
Despite the hardships, I remain deeply thankful for the steadfast support of my family. Their love and encouragement have been the foundation of this journey, and I truly cannot express enough gratitude for their unwavering presence and belief in me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Taqueria Luna, we are more than just a food truck—we are a family-owned business rooted in tradition, fueled by passion, and inspired by a deep love for authentic Mexican cuisine.
Our specialty lies in crafting bold, flavorful dishes that celebrate generations of culinary heritage, with our signature Queso Birria Tacos leading the way. Though we operate from a compact food trailer, we never compromise on quality, consistency, or service. In fact, our space has inspired us to be more intentional with our menu and operations, ensuring that every dish is prepared with precision and care.
What truly sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to authenticity and family values. Every taco, every plate, and every customer interaction is infused with the warmth and love that reflect our roots in Mexico. Taqueria Luna is more than a brand—it’s a heartfelt tribute to my mother, whose cherished recipes and enduring spirit continue to guide and inspire our journey.
When you visit us, you’re not just enjoying a meal—you’re becoming part of our story. Whether it’s your first time trying birria or you’re a longtime fan, we’re here to serve you with heart, flavor, and gratitude.
As we continue to grow, we hold fast to a simple truth: The value of life is not measured by the possessions we accumulate, but by the richness of our experiences. We are deeply grateful for our humble beginnings, as they have shaped who we are today.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was born and raised in the small town of Almagres, Veracruz, where I developed a strong foundation rooted in hard work, faith, and gratitude—values instilled in me by my parents, whose dedication and integrity continue to inspire me today.
From a young age, I helped on my father’s farm alongside my siblings after school. The girls were often tasked with planting seeds, and while we enjoyed the work, we sometimes got a little carried away—planting six seeds in the same hole! As I grew older, I became more involved in our family’s small food business. My mother prepared meals for our local community, and I assisted by taking orders and delivering food throughout our pueblo. I always looked forward to the days when we had more orders than we could handle. Despite limited financial resources, our home was filled with love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for what we had.
As the second youngest of eight children, I learned early on the importance of responsibility, perseverance, and humility. I’ve always had a passion for art, painting, and creativity—values that continue to influence my professional approach, where I prioritize quality over quantity.
At 18, I made one of the most difficult decisions of my life: to leave my parents and move to the United States in search of greater opportunities. My motivation was deeply rooted in a desire to support my family, help repair their home, and improve their quality of life.
After arriving in the U.S., I worked in various factories and eventually met my husband in 2010. We’ve now been happily married for 11 years. Through hard work and determination, we saved enough to start a home cleaning business, which I successfully grew over eight years into a respected and well-established company in our community. My attention to detail and genuine care for my clients helped set me apart.
In 2020, I welcomed my daughter—my greatest joy and daily inspiration. Two years later, in 2022, my sister and I felt a strong calling to honor our family name. Together, we founded Dominguez-Luna LLC, and after months of planning, dedication, and sleepless nights, we proudly launched our mobile food truck, Taqueria Luna, in May 2023.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://partners.orders.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taqueria_luna_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taqueria.luna.154570/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/taqueria-luna-madison
