The Brookside Business Association is proud to announce Justin and Leslie Hernandez as this year’s Mr. and Mrs. Irish for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade. Justin, owner of Jalapeno’s Brookside, 6318 Brookside Plaza, embodies the spirit of community, tradition, and celebration that makes this event so special. “Being named Mr. Irish is an incredible honor—not just for me, but for my family. This parade is all about tradition, and I love that my kids get to experience it in such a special way,” said Justin. “My kids think it’s awesome for mom and dad get to be honored in the parade.”
Although Justin attended St. Patrick’s Grade School in Kansas and grew up around the parade, he typically experienced the parade from the front lines of his bustling restaurant. This year will be a different kind of experience—one that allows him to fully take in the magic of the event from a new perspective. “The St. Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade and the Art Annual always bring such energy to Brookside. The parade is a signal of transition from winter to spring, and at time when the entire community comes together. Getting to be front and center this year is special.”
For Justin, Brookside has been like a second home since Jalapenos Brookside opened in 1994. “I’ve grown up here. As a kid I remember walking around Jalapenos while it was being renovated, walking to the shops with my mom, and working side by side with my dad.” Justin started working at Jalapenos at age 11 but didn’t join Jalapenos Brookside alongside his dad, Benny, until 2009. “I was just married when I joined my dad in Brookside. When you’re young you just work and there’s no real perspective. When I joined my dad he taught me the day-to-day operations, and how to make the sausage - what it really takes to run a great business.” Justin took over the operation over 8 years ago when Benny retired and excited to have him join the parade this year. “After owning the restaurant for a while dad learned we kids aren’t half bad. That time was priceless. The parade is going to be a lot of fun, bringing him full circle.”
For Justin family is everything, he and Leslie’s story is one of deep roots and strong ties to both Jalapeno’s and Brookside. Leslie’s connection to Jalapenos also runs through family—her uncle was Benny’s longtime business partner, and Leslie and Justin worked side by side since they were 11. They were married in 2008 and have four children that also call Jalapenos home. They cherish family and the memories they’ve created at Jalapenos and in Brookside. “I get my true joy from my kids. They’re super proud and think it’s cool that dad owns a restaurant. The business doesn’t define me, but it’s a legacy we share,” says Justin. He also values creating memories for others. “Getting the opportunity to make core memories with family and friends is special. It’s a priceless thing – it’s godly wealth. I hope I give to others what’s been given to me. I love I can pass that along.”
Brookside is like an extended family to Justin and Benny. Over the years, they’ve watched the neighborhood evolve, forming lifelong connections with residents, customers, and other business owners. As the owners of Jalapeños Brookside, Benny and now Justin has been a familiar face to generations of customers, witnessing families grow and return year after year. “You connect with people in a deep way, and I appreciate being more than a business owner to many. Connecting is part of owning a business in Brookside. If that’s not your thing, you’re probably in the wrong location.”
Beyond his role as the honorary Irish, Justin recommends the parade for everyone. “Brookside’s St. Pat’s Parade is more than just an event. It’s a celebration for the entire City and a tradition that connects generations,” says Justin. “It’s an honor to be recognized, and we can’t wait to celebrate with the entire community.” As for the kids, Justin says “candy is currency for children. It’s just a big fun day for them. I have friends that come with their kids every year.” We agree, whether young or old, the parade is fun for everyone and hope to see generations enjoy it together.
For more information about Jalapenos visit JalapenosBrookside.com or visit them at 6318 Brookside Plaza in the heart of the historic Brookside Shops.
The Brookside St. Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade takes place on Saturday, March 15, 2025, continuing its tradition of bringing families, businesses, and friends together for one of Kansas City’s most beloved celebrations.
For more information on the parade and its honorees, visit BrooksideKC.org or follow along on on Facebook at BrooksideKC, on Instagram at BrooksideKansasCity.