Methuen resident Triana Valente is living her dream, creating authentic Mexican fare for her Merrimack Valley neighbors!

“It’s in my heart to open here, and bring a little piece of Mexico,” says Valente, the owner of Triana’s Mexican Snacks which opened last month at 319 Merrimack St. (directly across from Borrelli’s Italian Deli) and was hopping during MethuenLife’s mid-afternoon weekday visit!

The shop offers everything from loaded juice-laden fruit cups (Mangos Locos is a hot seller!) and savory street corn to mouth-watering tacos, mulitas and churros with ice cream!

About two and a half years ago, Valente closed her Traina’s Real Mexican Food restaurant in Haverhill. She’s thrilled to be back in business, bringing specialties from her homeland to a new customer base in Methuen.

“I miss Haverhill a lot,” she said. “I always wanted to open something like this (snack eatery). You’ll see this type of shop all over Mexico, but there’s nothing like this around here. … I love this place, this location and my neighbors!”

The spot is loaded with beautiful Mexican artwork and music. There are about a half-dozen high-top chairs along the counter which looks out onto Merrimack Street. 

Valente’s son Derek Romano welcomes everyone with a smile and is happy to explain the menu items to newcomers.

With colder temperatures on the way, Valente is eager to introduce Mexican hot chocolate and other seasonal drinks that can be flavored with “caramel, strawberry, guava … we’re ready for winter!”

In the spring, watch for “Mexican ice pops made with chunks of fruit, like mango and kiwi. It’s really good!” Valente says.

Triana’s Mexican Snacks is open Monday through Saturday, 11am-9pm.