Nestled within the bustling Gilbert Farmers Market, Benny Blanco Tortillas has cemented itself as a cherished cornerstone. Steering this culinary haven is the extraordinary Christopher Hudson, affectionately known as the "Big Bald Guy," who has masterfully transformed his passion for Mexican cuisine into an undeniable sensation. With a well-earned reputation for unparalleled excellence, these tortillas have become an enchanting obsession for Arizona locals and esteemed chefs alike.
The Man
Christopher Hudson's journey into the world of tortilla-making began years ago, fueled by his deep love for Mexican cuisine and his treasured family recipes passed down from his grandmother. It was during a visit to the Gilbert Farmers Market that he stumbled upon the remarkable tortillas of Ben Ramirez and Benny Blanco Tortillas, instantly evoking nostalgic memories of his childhood and igniting a fire within him.
Over the course of five years, Christopher became a loyal customer of Benny Blanco Tortillas, savoring the authentic tastes of Hermosillo, and Sonora with every delicious bite. However, when Ben Ramirez made the decision to explore new ventures, Christopher saw an irresistible opportunity. In August of 2018, he seized the chance to purchase the business, taking the reins and ensuring the legacy of Benny Blanco Tortillas would more than live on, it would thrive.
Christopher's unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing the flavors of his heritage has paid off as Benny Blanco Tortillas has experienced remarkable growth. “Conventional business wisdom says to cut your costs to make a profit. Buy in bulk, get cheaper ingredients, outsource to co-packers, find the cheapest employees, and automate equipment. And I've done the exact opposite. I've found artisans with great talent and attention to detail to continue the handmade process. I buy the best ingredients possible, as locally as possible. I maintain strict control over all quality control. I pay fairly, I charge my customers fairly. No discounts, no sales. Just straightforward quality.”
The recent opening of a physical storefront in Apache Junction is a significant milestone for Benny Blanco Tortillas. This dedicated space allows customers to fully immerse themselves in the flavors that Christopher holds dear to his heart.
The Tortillas
Benny Blanco Tortillas has garnered a devoted following at the Gilbert Farmers Market. Nestled in the heart of our community, the Gilbert Farmers Market provides Christopher and his team the perfect stage to showcase his culinary creations.
With his recognizable pickup truck, affectionately named Rhonda, parked nearby, Christopher's booth becomes a hub of excitement at the market. Each tortilla at Benny Blanco's is meticulously crafted with love and care, sparing no expense in sourcing the finest ingredients, including using heirloom corn and a portion of Arizona-grown heritage grain wheat in every flour tortilla, ensuring that every tortilla boasts the highest quality and exceptional taste.
What truly sets Benny Blanco Tortillas apart from mass-produced alternatives is the meticulous attention to detail and the use of traditional techniques in their creation. This dedication is evident in the consistent thickness and texture of his tortillas, which are meticulously handcrafted. Unlike their machine-made counterparts, Benny Blanco Tortillas possess a homemade charm that can only be achieved through the skillful touch of an artisan.
The extensive menu at Benny Blanco Tortillas is thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse preferences of its valued customers. Whether you crave the classic goodness of The O.G. (The Original Flour Tortilla), the rich heritage of White Sonoran (America's first wheat), the robust flavors of Rouge de Bordeaux (the tortilla with body), or the gluten-free delight of Gluten-Free Cassava (crafted from cassava root as a wheat alternative), there's a tortilla to suit every palate.
But Benny Blanco Tortillas doesn't stop there. Christopher, the creative force behind these exceptional tortillas, is driven by his passion for experimentation. Each week, he surprises visitors at the Gilbert Farmers Market with limited-edition flavors that highlight the very best of seasonal ingredients sourced directly from neighboring farms. Prepare to be captivated by extraordinary creations like What the Sweet Figgins or indulge in the whimsical Choco-Nanner. For those seeking an exhilarating kick, try the Face Melters. And if you're a fan of bold flavors, the Cheesy Chile Garlic Sopes will surely leave you craving more.
In addition to their delicious tortillas and culinary expertise, Benny Blanco Tortillas goes above and beyond to make a positive impact on their community. Christopher and his team believe in giving back and minimizing waste by generously donating unused products to the Genesis Project. This nonprofit food kitchen provides hot meals to those in need.
Benny Blanco Tortillas also demonstrates a deep commitment to helping those facing hardships. If you find yourself struggling to provide food for your family, a visit to Benny Blanco's is an opportunity to receive support. By simply saying the word "Porcupine," you will be given a pack of tortillas free of charge, no questions asked. If you have a large family, they will even provide you with more, ensuring that no one goes hungry. This act of kindness showcases Christopher and his team's genuine care for the community and their willingness to offer a helping hand in times of need.
With their delicious tortillas, commitment to giving back, and focus on sustainability, it’s no surprise that this establishment has become an irreplaceable staple in the hearts of locals.
For those eagerly seeking a tantalizing taste of Benny Blanco Tortillas, a visit to their storefront at 189 W. Apache Trail is a must. They welcome customers every Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing a convenient opportunity to indulge in their mouthwatering creations. Alternatively, you can also find them at the Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturdays, as well as several other local markets. Wherever you choose to encounter Benny Blanco Tortillas, you can be certain that a delightful journey to the heart of Mexico awaits, leaving your taste buds spellbound
"Who would've thought a tortilla company could create such a profound community impact? It's amazing what small changes can achieve."
