We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Padilla and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
It was a love for food and posting to my personal page, Aznomnoms slowly evolved from that. I also live in the West Valley so I knew i wanted that to be apart of my page. I really wanted to showcase all the places I love in West Phoenix because I felt it never was shown in local food blogs.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I moved back to AZ at 22 not knowing professionally and personally what I was going to do. By day I work at the largest customer centric company in the world but at night it’s all thing food related. The food blogger life was not something I thought would be a part of life but I’m so happy it is. I’ve met so many great business owners and friendships through this hobby that im so proud of myself for continuing it. My weekends are definitely busy trying out Arizona’s food scene.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Since I’ve known my bestie for over 20 years I know she’s always down for anything. First place would be Enroute Tea and Coffee for a caffeine kick! For a sweet treat we would stop for some Pan Dulce at Phoenix’s best Mexican bakery, La Purísima . For brunch we would have to stop at Colados for some Nutella crepes and chai tea lattes. We both love Mexican food so we would check out Calitacos in Tolleson or grab Ceviche from Pony’s Miches. For dessert hands down would be to stop at Abbie’s Cakes.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
For me the one person I credit my work ethic to is my dad. Being 1st Gen Mexican American I learned from a young age if you want something you have to work hard for it. Seeing him work hard and never complain I aspire to be as selfless as he is one day

Instagram: @aznomnoms

Other: Tik tok. @aznomnoms

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