Pepsi x Chicharito Surprise Restaurant Workers in LA

Pepsi and Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez took a trip around Los Angeles last week to surprise local heroes at work. The pandemic has not been easy for small businesses and their employees, so to recognize front-line restaurant workers for their hard work throughout this time of uncertainty, Pepsi changed up its delivery route and brought along some friends to personally thank employees.

Chicharito surprises restaurant

Three restaurants in Los Angeles – Chile Verde, King Taco and Taco Nazo – received a special visit from international soccer star, Chicharito. Unloading gifts out of a Pepsi truck, Chicharito thanked and surprised fans with giveaways such as signed soccer balls, jerseys, and special branded items. At Taco Nazo, the last stop of the day, employees were surprised with a fiesta and had a chance to hang out with Chicharito, take photos and have a kickabout on a mini soccer pitch.

Chicharito with the King Taco team

Giving back to the local community is an important focus for Pepsi. Last week Chicharito supported PepsiCo’s announcement of “Team of Champions,” a $1 million initiative over three years that will provide the gift of the game to underserved Black and Hispanic communities to help create transformational change across the U.S. through soccer. 11 local organizations – including LA’s own Spartan Wolves and Tudela FC – will receive access to field time, equipment, and mentoring, coaching & training.

Chicharito and the Chile Verde team