Lily Canjura gazed out the window of the small juice bar in the direction of the construction site of what some are calling "NFL World." Sitting only a block and half away from where the stadium will soon stand, Canjura and her neighboring tenants are worried about what will come in the next year.
"Right now, we don't know what will happen until a year from now. We just have to wait and hope," said Canjura.
Canjura has lived in Los Angeles most of her life and has been in Inglewood for more than three years. She has worked as a manager at Mango Tango since they first opened a little over two years ago.
Unlike many of the other eateries and food options in the area, Mango Tango offers fresh and organic salads, sandwiches, smoothies and pressed-juices – all made by hand in house. Despite the popularity of fried southern food and fast food found nearby, Mango Tango has survived and even thrived within the community. The vibrant cafe welcomes locals and regulars daily as they sit on the outdoor patio, listen to traditional Latino music and choose from the hand-drawn chalk menu on the wall. Mango Tango is one of a kind for Inglewood and the surrounding community.
"We have to source everything from Restaurant Depot and other healthy markets. We are one of few businesses here that offer this kind of food and quality," explained Canjura. "We really want to be able to stay open so we can keep offering fresh food so there is an option besides processed and fried food."
Even though the business has been successful for the past two years, the announcement that the Rams would soon be calling Inglewood home proved to be a game-changer for business owners in the area.
"We were bought out along with the other tenants [in the building]. We really don't know what will happen," said Canjura. "We haven't been told all the details yet."
The colorful cafe offering more than 30 juice and smoothie options seems to be playing the role of David as the new stadium looming ahead is a daunting Goliath.
"The stadium will only be a block and half away once construction is done," said Canjura. "Who knows if we will still be here."
Canjura's personal opinion of the Los Angeles Rams moving into town is mixed.
"I think it will bring more jobs to the area. Less people will have to commute," said Canjura. "It's a small city and it could use a remodel and there might be more business."
With the future unknown for Mango Tango, Canjura said she has already begun planning ahead in case the business succumbs within the next year.
"Hopefully, I'd be able to start another restaurant or food truck. I want to still be able to provide these healthy options and stay in the area," said Canjura. "This might be opportunity waiting for me."
The future is unknown for Canjura and Mango Tango as the city begins its plans to welcome the Rams home.
"All we can do is wait, listen and try out best," said Canjura. "Only time will tell,"
Annenberg Media