Before Munchies launched in 2013 in San Antonio, finding Mexican white corn snacks was a challenge for owner Ramiro Mendiola, who craved authentic treats from Mexico.

“Us Mexicans are always looking for food," Mendiola said. “At that time, I couldn’t find the kind of snacks I grew up eating in Mexico in San Antonio.”

The background

Mendiola, who is from Tamaulipas, moved to San Antonio at the age of 22 for an opportunity to earn his master’s degree in law at St. Mary’s University. After graduating, Mendiola said he wanted to take a shot at starting a business. Inspired by his love of Mexican street food, Mendiola launched Munchies to fill the gap of authentic Mexican treats in San Antonio.

What they offer


In Mexico, corn in a cup and other street food is usually made with white corn instead of yellow corn, which Mendiola said is what is typically offered in San Antonio.

Munchies serves white Mexican corn in a cup paired with mayo, housemade Mexican cream, as well as its signature tangy chile sauce.

Mendiola said the sauce is made of a variety of spices and chile powders that give it its tangy taste and thick texture, which is a customer favorite. Other popular items include the Tostielote, which blends the same ingredients over salsa verde-flavored Tostios chips.

The mangonada features mango-based sorbet topped with fresh mango chunks, chamoy and a tamarind candy stick.


What else?

Mendiola said he is proud to see businesses like his flourish in San Antonio and hopes to keep expanding while remaining a local business.

“I don’t ever see this as a competition with other businesses, " Mendiola said. "I see it as a shared love of our food and our culture.”