Spotlight on Staff: Ernie Mercado, Proprietor of Ernie's Al Fresco Catering
February 22, 2007
While Ernie is not technically a Caltech staff member, he is so well known and well loved on campus that Caltech Today felt the need to profile him. If you have never eaten Ernie's food, you are missing out—on both a good meal and a warm smile.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am originally from Guadalajara, Mexico. I have been married for 30 years, and my wife Grace works at Epson. My daughter Cristina is getting her PhD in psychology and education at the University of Michigan. I am very proud of her.
How did you come to be in your current line of work?
For years I worked at a company in the aircraft industry, as a controller in their parts and materials department. While there, I began to do a few jobs on the service side— sometimes driving the limo, sometimes tending the bar at events. I began to like the service side of things, and catering was something I found came naturally. I didn't want to open a restaurant, I decided, because staying in one place all the time would drive me crazy! So I decided the truck was the way to go—I could cook and cater, but not be tied to one place. I like my business—I get to see happy faces all the time! But it's hard work—you have to love it. It has to come from the heart.
Who are your other customers besides Caltech?
I stop at the City of Pasadena, the Pasadena Courthouse, and the Pasadena Police Department. Then in downtown Los Angeles I serve L.A. Water and Power, the Music Center, the LAPD, and Trade Tech.
Dare we ask which of your stops is your favorite?
Caltech is my favorite customer! I have been with Caltech the longest—eighteen years—since my daughter was a little girl. In fact, the students at Caltech had an influence on my daughter's education. I love the students here, and getting to know them encouraged me to encourage my daughter to get her PhD. I want to thank Caltech for that.
Also, I see a little part of my daughter in every student who comes to my truck, so even though she is far away right now, knowing the kids here makes me feel close to her.
What do you do in your spare time?
Spare time? I work twelve hours a day! For pleasure I do whatever my wife wants to do.
You wondered if Caltech Today would ask you what your favorite tequila is, so: what is your favorite tequila?
Don Julio and Tres Generaciones. The taste of these is the best, in my opinion.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I'd just like to say that I feel very blessed at this time of my life. I have a wonderful wife and daughter, and a great business. I cater to the best—I feel that way about all my customers. I am very thankful and happy.
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