80-Year-Old Paletero Continues Sweet Tradition in San Francisco’s Mission District
The article profiles Alberto Sanchez, an 80-year-old paletero (ice cream vendor) who has been working in San Francisco's Mission District for nearly 25 years. Sanchez began his career at age 11 in Mexico City polishing shoes.
San Francisco Oakland San Jose, CA, August 20, 2026 —
Alberto Sanchez, an 80-year-old paletero, has been a familiar and welcome presence in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District for close to 25 years. His daily rounds, offering refreshing paletas (Mexican popsicles) and ice cream, have become a sweet fixture in the neighborhood.
Sanchez’s journey into the world of street vending began much earlier in his life. At the tender age of 11, he started his working career in his native Mexico City, where he polished shoes. This early start instilled in him a strong work ethic that has carried through his decades of entrepreneurship.
For nearly a quarter-century, Sanchez has dedicated himself to serving the Mission District community. While the specifics of his ice cream business are not detailed, his longevity in the role highlights a commitment to his craft and his customers. The report does not include further details on his current operations or future plans.
Story summarized from the original created by Oscar Palma on missionlocal.org, see more information here.
