If you’ve caught a whiff of cinnamon sugar in the air and followed your nose to a gleaming churro truck, chances are you’ve stumbled upon Noris Churros — a new local business serving up the sweet, golden treats of Mexico City right here in Northern Virginia.
The name “Noris” is a loving tribute to co-founder Nora Sanchez, who, alongside her partner Marcos Vazquez, turned a dream into a dessert-slinging reality. Their secret recipe? A mix of authenticity, patience, and just a pinch of daring.
“It’s not easy being an entrepreneur,” said Viridiana Neri, Nora’s daughter and the unofficial ambassador for the brand. “People think it’s glitz and glamour, but it’s a lot of hard work.”
The churro truck — custom-built in Mexico — was hauled across the border to Texas, where Marcos jumped into a rental truck and drove it all the way to Virginia. “My mom flew down to meet him,” Viridiana recalled with a laugh. “It was a whole adventure.”
Now six months into selling, Noris Churros is a regular sight at events, where fans line up for fresh, crispy churros made with love — and a notoriously “picky” dough. For smaller gatherings, the team offers large party boxes perfect for meetings, birthdays, or whenever you’re in need of a sugar fix.
Behind the scenes, the business got a major boost from Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) — a nonprofit based in Manassas that’s celebrating 100 years of strengthening families and communities across the region.
Through their entrepreneurial training programs, including business planning and financial education, NVFS empowers local residents like Nora and Marcos to turn their ideas into reality. “They learned everything — business plans, permits, how to grow a business,” said Viridiana. “It gave them confidence.”
Founded in 1924, NVFS provides a broad spectrum of services — from early childhood education to housing and workforce development — designed to help individuals and families become self-sufficient. Their Manassas location plays a vital role in supporting the entrepreneurial dreams of immigrants and underserved residents through accessible education and mentorship.
While Nora has dabbled in other jobs before, this venture feels different. “She’s a risk-taker,” Viridiana said proudly. “But this time, she’s put her heart into it. And Marcos? He’s been her biggest motivator.”
So what’s the secret to the perfect churro?
“Patience,” Viridiana said with a smile. “And a little love.”
