Northgate González Market opened a new La Mirada store on Jan. 14, marking a homecoming rooted in family history, community ties, and cultural pride. The opening of Northgate González Market La Mirada positions it as a key destination for authentic Mexican food in Los Angeles County.
Located at 12721 Valley View Blvd., the 29,800-square-foot supermarket anchors a neighborhood tied closely to the González family’s earliest years in the United States. Therefore, company leaders framed the opening as both a business expansion and a personal milestone.
“For our family, La Mirada will always hold a special place in our hearts,” said Oscar González, co-president of Northgate González Market. “It was our first home, and opening a store here is a proud moment for our family.”
A Full-Circle Moment for the González Family
From the start, Northgate González Market La Mirada reflects the company’s origins and values. Most notably, the store features a custom mural titled From Our Roots to Home by La Mirada artist Alysia Ponce.
The artwork traces the González family’s journey from Jalostotitlán, Jalisco, to Southern California. It highlights themes of faith, hard work, and tradition while honoring La Mirada as the first U.S. city the family called home. As a result, the mural turns the store into a storytelling space rather than just a retail destination.
Community leaders attended a special reception celebrating the opening. During the event, Northgate announced a donation of more than $20,000 to local schools, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to community investment.
Benefiting schools include Los Altos Elementary, Foster Road Elementary, Gardenhill Elementary, Hutchinson Middle School, La Mirada High School, and St. Paul of the Cross School.
“La Mirada is proud to welcome Northgate Market and the González family’s investment into our city,” said City Council Member John Lewis, District 1. “Northgate Market is not only a great place to shop, but also a community partner.”
Jobs and Fresh Food Anchor the New Store
Beyond sentiment, Northgate González Market La Mirada delivers economic impact. The store employs 244 associates, creating new jobs in a modernized retail space designed for high-volume service.
At the same time, the location offers the signature departments that have defined Northgate since its founding in 1980. Each department emphasizes craftsmanship, freshness, and tradition.
The Tortillería La González produces masa throughout the day using volcanic stone from Puebla. This traditional grinding method preserves flavor and texture while supporting daily production of tortillas, chips, tostadas, and masa. Seasonal varieties, including pineapple and pumpkin, add variety.
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In the Pastelería La González, bakers prepare pan dulce and signature cakes daily. The department features a classic tres leches cake and bolillos made from scratch using traditional Mexican recipes. Consequently, customers find both everyday staples and celebratory desserts under one roof.
The Carnicería remains central to the brand’s identity. Known since 1980 as “Los Meros Meros de la Carne Asada,” Northgate butchers prepare premium meats while offering hands-on guidance to shoppers.
Prepared Foods Highlight Tradition and Convenience
Meanwhile, Carnitas Don Miguel showcases one of the company’s most iconic offerings. Inspired by founder Don Miguel González Jiménez, the carnitas follow Michoacán-style traditions. The meat cooks slowly in traditional cazos, producing rich flavor and tender texture that customers recognize instantly.
Shoppers also find an extensive section of chiles and spices. From chile de árbol and guajillo to serrano and jalapeño, the assortment ranks among the largest in the region. Rancho González products further support authentic home cooking across seasons.
In addition, the store’s Cocina offers grab-and-go meals. Customers can choose empanadas, chile rellenos, guisados, rice and beans, blending convenience with authenticity.
Strengthening Roots While Looking Ahead
Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Anaheim, Northgate González Market operates 44 stores across Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Diego counties. While growth continues, Northgate González Market La Mirada stands apart as a symbolic return to where the story began.
Ultimately, the opening blends commerce, culture, and community. It reinforces how heritage-driven grocers can grow without losing their soul—by honoring the past while serving today’s neighborhoods.