Business Spotlight: Mercado Libertad--A New Mexican Grocery in Liberty Hill
Business Spotlight: Say hello to Liberty Hill’s newest neighbors! Samuel and Rozslin Velez traded the Las Vegas heat for Texas charm to open Mercado Libertad. From local farm eggs to those must-have Mexican Cokes, see why this specialty market is becoming a neighborhood favorite.
Therese Brandenburg
A Taste of Home: Mercado Libertad Brings Mexican Flavors to Liberty Hill
Tucked behind the Subway off Highway 29, Liberty Hill’s newest specialty grocer is more than just a storefront; it is a leap of faith for owners Samuel and Rozslin Velez.
The couple traded the neon lights of Las Vegas for the rolling hills of Texas, seeking good schools for their three children and a climate free of snow. After an exhaustive search—aided by a bit of digital research and a recommendation from friends—the Velezes bought a home in Liberty Hill online.
“We drove right up,” Rozslin says. They haven't looked back since.
From Convenience to Community
The inspiration for Mercado Libertad was born from a simple frustration: Samuel didn’t like driving 20 minutes to find an authentic Mexican market. Sensing a gap in the local landscape, and backed by the mentorship of an uncle who runs a similar business in Ohio, the couple decided to open their own.
While the shop caters to those seeking specific ingredients from south of the border, the Velezes have found that their inventory has a universal appeal. Most Texans love these foods too.
Local Favorites and Future Plans
Since opening last December, the business has experienced the typical "roller coaster" of a new startup, but a steady stream of regulars is already forming. The current stars of the shelves include:
- Farm-fresh eggs: Sourced from a local supplier who treats her happy hens like family.
- Authentic Mexican bakery breads: Delivered fresh and full of tradition.
- Locally made salsas: A staple for any Texas pantry.
The shop also stocks nostalgia in a bottle, such as quart-sized Mexican Coca-Cola made with cane sugar. Of course, staples like breakfast tacos, tamales and bulk peppers are sold there too. For those looking for more than pantry staples, the couple plans to expand the shop to include a full-service meat market within the next six months.
The Personal Touch
For Rozslin and Samuel, the business is as much about conversation as it is about commerce. Rozslin spends much of her day introducing curious newcomers to different products or catching up with regulars about their families.
“I hope people shop local where they can really get to know their retailer” she says.
Whether you are hunting for the perfect salsa, a happy dozen of eggs, or just a warm neighborhood chat, Mercado Libertad is proving that the best ingredient for a growing community is a place where neighbors are known by name. Shop locally!
Libertad Mercado | 13750 State Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill Texas | Mon-Sat, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.