WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Back in the 70’s, a California hippie living in an old school bus discovered a passion for Mexican food, life changing stuff…
He parked up the bus and took his dreams of peace, love and great tacos to far out places like New York and Oregon.
Fresh out of business school, he got a job as the host in this newly opened Mexican restaurant. After a few years at the Cantina and a failed attempt at opening a similar restaurant in New York City, he moved to Bend, Oregon where he opened the first Mexicali Rose restaurant with his partners.
From 1979 to 1999 Mexicali Rose was one of the most popular restaurants in this ski town and earned several awards, including Best Mexican Restaurant in the Pacific Northwest.
He and his wife raised their two sons with Mexicali in their blood; fuelled by burritos and washing restaurant pots they could fit inside! In 1992 the family opened Baja Norte, their first fast-casual restaurant with an open display kitchen, colourful graphics and traditional recipes. This concept was inspired by several trips to Cabo San Lucas in Baja California, inspired by the big open grill in the airport and excellent food trucks on the streets.
After selling both successful brands in the US, the family embarked upon an international adventure. In 2005 they moved to New Zealand and introduced Kiwis to the laid-back California flavours of Mexicali.
The first store opened up in Princess Wharf, Auckland and was the flagship store for 16 years. Today, Mexicali is a 11 outlet franchise across the country serving up delicious and convenient Cali-style eats.
