04/14/2026
SO EXCITED 😆 WE LOOK FORWARD TO BUILDING RELATIONSHIP WITH EVERYONE💙
Business Highlight: 18 Street Raspas 🍧
What started as a moment of hardship turned into one of Hondo’s favorite sweet spots 💛
About 17 years ago, owner Gustavo Salas and his family began their journey in a small rental trailer outside HEB. After Gustavo’s father suffered a serious injury and underwent nine surgeries, he needed a new way to provide for his family. With determination and a leap of faith, he invested in a snow cone business using his disability funds and got to work 💪
That decision changed everything.
From those humble beginnings, 18 Street Raspas has grown into a full destination 🙌
About eight years ago, the family purchased their current building and began expanding the menu far beyond traditional raspas.
Today, they serve everything from authentic shaved ice and Italian ice to milkshakes, banana splits, funnel cakes, fried Oreos, nachos, and more 🍦🍓
If you are craving it, chances are they have it 😋
But what truly sets 18 Street Raspas apart is not just the variety. It is the heart behind it ❤️
Family is at the center of everything they do 👨👩👧👦
With deep roots tied between Hondo, D’Hanis, and Castroville, the Salas family chose Hondo because it feels like home 🏡 Even before opening their storefront, they spent weekends here, building relationships that still walk through their doors today.
For them, this business is more than a place to grab a treat. It is a place where customers feel like family 🤝
Their commitment to quality is just as strong ⭐
Many of their ingredients, including chamoy, corn, and spices, are sourced directly from Mexico by Gustavo’s mother to ensure authentic flavor in every bite 🌶️
When asked about their success, Gustavo points to one person. His dad 🙌 Known for his unmatched work ethic and ability to connect with anyone, he has built lasting relationships with customers who come just as much for the conversation as they do for the treats 💬
Looking ahead, 18 Street Raspas has big dreams 🚀 Their biggest challenge right now is space. They have outgrown their current building and envision a larger location with indoor seating, expanded menu options, and room for families to gather and kids to just be kids 🎉 Future plans include birthday parties, community events, food trucks, pop up markets, and more 🛍️🌮
Their goal is simple. To grow into a true community hub where people can come together, connect, and enjoy something sweet 🍧✨
After nearly two decades in business, one thing is clear. 18 Street Raspas is not just a place. It is a story of resilience, family, and a whole lot of heart 💛
