A Taste of Tradition: How Rajas con Crema Brings Mexico to Maywood
What makes a restaurant unforgettable? For many, it’s a signature dish that lingers in memory long after the meal is over. At Rajas con Crema, that dish is their namesake—a creamy, smoky blend of roasted poblanos and tangy Mexican sour cream, crafted with love by co-owner Alicia. But beyond the flavors, it’s the story behind the food that draws people in: one of resilience, community, and an unwavering passion for authenticity.
What started as a small catering business serving local schools has blossomed into a cherished restaurant known for its homestyle cooking, regional specialties, and a hospitality-driven dining experience.
From Catering to Culinary Success
The story of Rajas con Crema began in 2005 when Alicia, inspired by her love of cooking, started catering for a group of teachers pursuing their master’s degrees. Word spread quickly, and soon her flavorful dishes were in demand for school events and private parties. “She worked out of our house until it became too much,” says Javier, her husband and co-owner.
In 2019, the couple decided to take a leap of faith and open their own restaurant in Maywood, California. Despite having no prior experience in the restaurant industry, Alicia and Javier brought the same passion and care to their new venture. Little did they know, the challenges of the pandemic were just around the corner.
Surviving the Storm
Like many restaurants, Rajas con Crema faced significant hurdles during COVID-19. Staffing shortages, economic uncertainties, and the sudden halt of indoor dining were just a few of the obstacles. But the couple’s determination, along with support from loyal customers, saw them through. “The PPP loans helped, and I was still teaching at the time, which meant we didn’t have to rely on the restaurant’s profits to get by,” Javier recalls.
Outdoor dining also played a crucial role in keeping the business afloat. “We opened up a patio space, and our customers kept coming back. Our food speaks for itself—it’s what brought us through the hardest times,” Javier adds.
A Menu Rooted in Authenticity
At the heart of Rajas con Crema’s success is its menu, a celebration of Mexico’s regional cuisines. Dishes like Carne en su Jugo, a hearty beef stew from Guadalajara, and the signature Rajas con Crema highlight Alicia’s commitment to tradition. “Our food is authentic,” Javier explains. “If it’s a dish from Jalisco, it’s made in that style, with those ingredients. It’s like eating at home.”
The menu also surprises with its Italian-inspired pastas, a nod to Alicia’s sister who married into an Italian family. Whether it’s the creamy Cajun Pasta with shrimp or the indulgent Huitlacoche Pasta, these dishes showcase the creativity and versatility that set Rajas con Crema apart.
And for dessert? The Churro Cheesecake—a labor of love that took five iterations to perfect—is a fan favorite. “We wanted something unique, something no one else had,” Javier says.
Building a Legacy
For Javier and Alicia, Rajas con Crema is a labor of love. While Alicia leads the kitchen, Javier focuses on front-of-house operations, training staff to provide the best service possible. They’ve even partnered with local organizations to offer work experience to young people, helping them build skills and confidence.
As they look to the future, the couple hopes to expand their menu and train their staff to take on greater responsibilities, eventually giving them the freedom to step back and explore new ventures. “We’re mentoring our team to ensure the restaurant thrives for years to come,” Javier says.