Sandra Calderon and new bakery cases at La Bonita.By Roger Lanse

As Sandra Calderon passed the vacant building on the corner of Silver and 32nd streets a few years ago, she said to herself “what a great location for a business,” little knowing that one day she would have one there. In 2012, Calderon, with help from building owners Jeb and James Fowler in the form of two years of free rent, and help from family members, opened the Mexican bakery called La Bonita.

“When I feel like things aren’t going my way, I go to baking,” Calderon said. Well, even when things are going her way, she still goes to baking, and her banderas, biscochos, empanadas, and donuts are proof of her baking skills.

As the years went by, “little by little” Calderon added tortas, tacos, tamales, burritos, homemade tortillas, and other Mexican delights. An indoor restaurant was added inviting customers to sit for a while with a Mexican pastry and a cup of coffee, or for lunch.

The summer of 2019 saw a significant remodel that brightened and rearranged the interior of La Bonita. New display cases, a soda fountain, a jazzed up register area, and a convenience store featuring snacks, were added. Taco Thursdays now complement Taco Tuesdays.

Calderon’s son, Angel, is in charge of the new convenience store, coming from Las Cruces every day to help his mom. Calderon’s husband, Troy, and nephew, Armando Adame, also help much in the venture.

The bakery and store are open seven days a week, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the week and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the weekend.