Founder Spotlight: Taco Empire’s Journey to $1M While Building a Legacy of Flavor

For Pilar Esparza and José Carlos Cornejo, entrepreneurship was the natural next step in a shared journey rooted in tradition and ambition. As the third generation in her family to work in the restaurant industry, Pilar grew up surrounded by the flavors, hospitality, and hard work that define great dining experiences. José Carlos brought a strong business mindset and the determination to build something of his own. Together, they launched Taco Empire, a brand that blends family heritage with a vision for growth.

We had the opportunity to learn more about Pilar through the Spring 2024 cohort of the OKC Latino Accelerator, a program designed to connect entrepreneurs in Oklahoma City with the resources, mentorship, and community needed to scale their businesses to $1M in revenue. As Taco Empire celebrates this milestone, they reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the bold plans that are shaping the company’s next chapter.

What inspired you to start your business?

We always knew we wanted to become business owners. I come from a family of restaurateurs—I’m the third generation to work in the industry—and José Carlos has always had a strong business mindset and the desire to own something of his own. Starting our own venture felt like a natural next step for both of us.

If you could go back to the early days of your business, what advice would you give yourself?

Definitely: map out a plan and prepare more thoroughly. There’s so much you learn along the way, but if we had reached out to someone with experience in the areas where we lacked it, the journey would’ve been smoother and far less stressful.

What role has your personal background and/or culture played in shaping your idea of building a business?

As I mentioned, I come from a family of restaurateurs, and José Carlos comes from a hardworking family as well. When we first moved to Oklahoma 14 years ago, we both found jobs in the restaurant industry. The years of experience we gained not only gave us the confidence but also the drive to eventually build something of our own.

How do you feel the Accelerator helped you grow as a founder and as a leader?

It gave me new perspectives to consider as a business owner. It also connected me with people who, in one way or another, have contributed to our growth. What helped us the most, personally, was the variety of guest speakers—each with expertise in different areas. That exposure helped me learn so much more, especially about marketing and branding.

Were there any specific resources, connections, or moments in the program that helped you in reaching this milestone?

Yes—particularly the marketing session with Naoma Serna. It was incredibly helpful.

What drives you to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough?

We know challenges are part of the journey to success and essential to growing our brand. If we want to reach our goals, we have to keep going—and that’s our biggest motivation.

At the same time, we know we’re setting an example for our children—to chase their dreams, prepare themselves, and work hard. We hope our journey inspires them in a positive way.

What does this milestone mean to you personally and for your business?

It gives us confidence and reassurance that—even when things don’t go perfectly—we’re on the right path and capable of achieving so much more.

What advice would you share with other entrepreneurs who are working toward their first $1M?

Don’t give up. Keep learning, growing, and reinvesting in your business. In time, your efforts will pay off.

What’s your long-term vision for your business and its impact on your community?

We want to see our brand grow. We believe in its potential to eventually become a franchise. In the near future, our goal is to open two more locations within the next two years—and from there, expand across Oklahoma and surrounding areas.

About Taco Empire

In June 2022, José Carlos Cornejo and Pilar Esparza decided to follow their dreams and start their own business. They launched Taco Empire the Food Truck, offering a simple menu specializing in tacos with blue corn tortillas. The community’s enthusiastic support quickly made Taco Empire a favorite spot for taco lovers. By November 2023, they proudly opened their first brick-and-mortar location . Today, José Carlos and Pilar are working hard on expanding their tasty empire across Oklahoma.

To learn more, visit TacoEmpireOKC.com or connect with Pilar on LinkedIn.