In a moment that felt like coming full circle, Northgate González Market opened its long-anticipated doors on January 14, 2026, marking a celebratory homecoming for the beloved Southern California grocery brand rooted deep in the city’s history and the González family’s American journey.
The day was nothing short of historic, with hundreds lining up before dawn, eager for a first look at the vibrant new 29,800-square-foot market that brings authentic Mexican flavors, community pride, and fresh, family-centered offerings to La Mirada’s Valley View Boulevard.
For the González family, founders of the iconic Northgate chain, this opening carried personal resonance. Co-President Oscar González shared that La Mirada holds a “special place” in their hearts, being the community where the family first made their home when they came to the United States decades ago.
“Opening a store here isn’t just business, this is where our story began,” González told local media, underscoring that the La Mirada location represents not only a new store but a return to their roots and a celebration of heritage.
From the moment the ribbon was cut, shoppers felt the holiday-like energy: live mariachi rhythms, smiles, and long-awaited family moments amid the aromas of freshly made tamales, stone-ground tortillas, and warm pan dulce. Inside the market, classic departments invite visitors to savor tradition with every aisle:
- Tamalería — handmade masa and savory selections like pork, chicken, and seasonal sweet tamales.
- Tortillería La González — daily stone-ground tortillas made on volcanic rock.
- Pastelería La González — fresh pan dulce, bolillos, and tres leches cakes.
- Carnicería — expert butchers, premium cuts, and the chain’s famous carne asada.
- Carnitas Don Miguel — tender Michoacán-inspired slow-roasted carnitas.
It’s these authentic offerings, along with the expansive selection of spices, chiles, and Latino culinary staples that have helped Northgate earn beloved status across Southern California over four decades.
The grand opening brought 244 new jobs to La Mirada, boosting local employment and economic opportunity. A highlight of the store itself is a heartfelt commissioned mural titled “From Our Roots to Home,” painted by La Mirada artist Alysia Ponce, charting the González family’s journey from Jalostotitlán, Jalisco, Mexico to becoming pillars of the region’s cultural and business landscape. In a show of community commitment, Northgate also announced donations totaling more than $20,000 to local schools, supporting students and families across several La Mirada campuses.
City leaders, residents, and families alike called the opening more than a retail milestone, it is a true homecoming that honors tradition while building fresh momentum for La Mirada’s future.
“La Mirada is proud to welcome Northgate Market and the González family’s investment into our city,” stated Mayor Ed Eng, recognizing the store as both a destination and community partner; a place where daily life, culture, and celebration intersect.
The Northgate La Mirada opening isn’t just another supermarket debut, it’s a reminder that some things are worth the wait, and when community, culture, and history unite, the result is nothing short of remarkable.
