El Mercadito — Local services in Payson

I just heard about this hidden gem! I stopped in to find some pork bones to use in broth, some jamaica, peppers, and plantains. This store is small, but it has a wonderful selection! The person at the meat counter was helpful. I found a good selection of bulk beans and other staples. I was happy to find some jamaica (dried hibiscus) also.

I made a delicious bone broth with ingredients from the meat counter and fresh produce section. The only thing they didn't have was leeks. I also made fried plantains with beans. I took a chance getting some hard cheese with loroco and it did not disappoint. It tasted fabulous with the plantains.

The restaurant looked delicious and there were quite a few people there eating. I plan to stop back and try the food and pastries. This is a wonderful...

This place is amazing! There’s so much crammed into such a little store. It’s the best Latin American store in Payson. The produce is good. The bread is good. The restaurant is good. The drink selection is vast! The candy selection is vast! Everything you need! Best of all, even though I speak only English, I still had a pleasant experience and was able to navigate through the store. The only reason I gave it four stars is because of reasons that are out of the store’s control. I don’t speak Spanish, and it can be quite awkward because everyone stares at you. More often that not, I’ve heard derogatory comments about my color, in Spanish, from customers, not employees in the store. It’s not the store’s fault, but it’s something to keep in mind that that is who you might be...

Needed some essentials for making tamales. I was my first time and I wasn’t sure I had everything. The cashier discovered what we were making and left her position to help me get a spice that I was missing. I am absolutely impressed. She was completely kind. And the others who were waiting in line were also very kind and patiently waited for us. There selection is great and being so close in payson makes for a treat. We made fresh salsa from the ingredients we purchased. Which for mid January was impressive to me. They also have a nice grill and a couple tables so if you want to grab a bite to eat it is handy. If your a fan a chorizo or Al pastor they have a healthy selection in their...