THROWBACK THURSDAY: When Ventura’s and Halepaska’s Were Neighbors

Talk about a match made in heaven! Who remembers when two iconic businesses from Victoria were located right next to each other? Ventura's Tamales and Halepaska's Bakery! This was the definition of the PERFECT lunch spot in Victoria.

I remember enjoying some of the best Mexican food that Victoria has ever seen. When you were done, you would just walk a few steps over and pick up some of the best sweets that Victoria has ever seen at Halepaska's. This building probably accounts for some weight gain in the Victoria area.

While Halepaska's Bakery is no longer with us, Sweet Fountainz Bakery still brings us great treats at the former Halepaska's location on John Stockbauer. Keeping the Halepaska's vibe alive. Halepaska's opened in Victoria in 1953 and closed their doors for good on April 26 of 2020.

Ventura's is still going strong with its location on Navarro. One thing I love about Ventura's is the story of their growth in Victoria. Humble beginnings on Water St. However, many of you may not know that Ventura's story starts before the Water St. location back in 1978.

As for the old Halepaska's/Ventura's building? Texas Seafood brings us some amazing foods at that location today. How many of you remember when Ventura's had an all-you-can-eat buffet?

Do you have any stories about growing up in Victoria or pictures from back in the day? Share them with us and send us a message on our app.