(Borrowed from the South Pasadena Review)
How would you celebrate your 96th birthday? If you are Mijares Mexican Restaurant, you host a Tequila tasting extravaganza; pairing a specially created menu with a variety of Souza Tequilas. Opened in 1920 by Jesusita Mijares, Mijares Mexican Restaurant is the oldest family owned restaurant in Pasadena. The November 17, 2016 celebration offered the perfect setting for the family to take just a moment to thank all their long-time customers and friends.
Alice Recendez, Jesusita’s daughter and Owner reminded the crowd that the banquet room, where the festivities were held, literally stands on the foot print of her Mother’s home. She went on to state, “My Mother was so hard-working and gracious in her life. I am so grateful that you are all here today.”
Arlene de Lang, Alice’s daughter and General Manager/Partner expressed to the gathering, “She’s (Jesusita) smiling down from heaven right now. In 1918, she came from Mexico…Legally! After her two sisters told her Pasadena was beautiful, Jesusita came and the rest is history.”
Tom Recendez, Alice’s son and Manager/Partner stated that he was “so happy that my Mother is here to see this 96th Anniversary. We are so proud of you and don’t want to let you down.”
Tina Jimenez, Alice’s other daughter and Office Manager/Partner took a moment to say, “I’m very grateful to be here working for my Mother. I’m not one to talk much, but I’m blessed. I’m blessed to work with my family.”
After hearing the family speak, it is easy to see why Mijares Mexican Restaurant maintains such a strong and loyal following in Pasadena and the greater area. Family and tradition serve as cornerstones of their business. Every person entering the front doors is greeted with a warm welcome. The family and, by extension, the entire Mijares staff, works hard to maintain that sense of family and tradition for all customers, new and old.
It may seem strange to write an article about a restaurant and barely mention their food. Well, it should come as no surprise that a restaurant that has been around for 96 years has fantastic food! If you have never been to Mijares or it is on your to-do list, now is the time to experience their traditional Mexican cuisine. Once there, you might as well sample their award-winning George’s Margarita. Don’t forget to say hello to Alice every Sunday. She continues to work simply the best Sunday Brunch around.
Mijares Mexican Restaurant is a family run restaurant that is operated by a family that cares. Over the past 96 years, Mijares has solidified is placement as one of our most important local treasures.