Rodeo Mexican Grill: Authentic Mexican Cuisine Loved by LA for Over 30 Years
Discover Rodeo Mexican Grill, a family-owned Los Angeles favorite serving authentic Mexican dishes for over 30 years. From tender carne asada to fan-favorite refried beans, learn how this community cornerstone blends tradition, innovation, and unbeatable flavors.
Step inside Rodeo Mexican Grill, and you’re immediately greeted by the aroma of sizzling carne asada, the vibrant colors of freshly made enchiladas, and the warm smiles of staff who feel more like family. With over 30 years of history, this family-owned Mexican restaurant has become a cornerstone of the community, offering a wide variety of traditional dishes that customers can’t help but come back for—sometimes every day.
At the heart of this success is Marilyn, who has managed Rodeo Mexican Grill since its early days. “People come for the food, but they stay because they feel like they’re part of our family,” she shared. From humble beginnings rooted in their first location, Happy Tom’s, to four thriving establishments today, Rodeo Mexican Grill’s journey is a testament to their passion for good food and great connections.
A Legacy of Flavor
The story of Rodeo Mexican Grill begins with its name. “Years ago, the space housed a restaurant called El Rodeo,” Marilyn explained. “When the owners took over, they wanted to honor that history by keeping the name. They added ‘Mexican Grill’ to reflect the fresh, authentic dishes they planned to offer.”
The restaurant quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to its affordable prices and dedication to quality. “The recipes might not be from someone’s grandmother, but the owners worked hard to perfect them alongside cooks who truly loved food,” Marilyn shared. That dedication paid off, with customers returning not only for the flavors but also for the familiarity.
Fan Favorites and Family Staples
With an extensive menu covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there’s something for everyone at Rodeo Mexican Grill. But a few dishes have risen to iconic status. “Our refried beans are a staple,” Marilyn noted. “People order them daily, whether as sides, small portions, or large servings. They’re so popular!” Carne asada, prepared to tender perfection, is another standout that keeps customers coming back for more.
When asked for her personal favorites, Marilyn couldn’t choose just one. “The pollo asado is incredible, and our enchiladas are a must-try too,” she said.
Despite having four locations, each neighborhood brings its own personality to the menu. “What’s popular varies by location, but our consistency is what keeps people loyal,” she added. Rodeo Mexican Grill’s commissary model ensures that every plate across all locations maintains the same delicious quality that has defined the restaurant for decades.
Building a Family, Not Just a Team
It’s not just the food that brings people back—it’s the relationships. “We have customers who come in every single day and order the same thing,” Marilyn said with a laugh. “It’s a testament to how much they love the menu and feel at home here.”
That sense of family extends to the staff as well. Many employees have been with Rodeo Mexican Grill for decades, with some leaving only to return later. “We’re so proud of that,” Marilyn said. “Our team is like family, and it’s a big part of why we’ve been able to succeed for so long.”
Innovation Meets Tradition
While Rodeo Mexican Grill prides itself on its traditional roots, it isn’t afraid to embrace the future. Two of their main locations feature robots—nicknamed Arturo Rito and Margarita—that deliver food to customers. “It took a while for everyone to warm up to them, but now the staff loves how much easier they make the job,” Marilyn shared.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Rodeo Mexican Grill continues to grow, the focus remains on consistency, community, and quality. With a loyal customer base, innovative solutions, and a dedication to the recipes that have defined them for decades, the future looks as bright as ever for this family-owned gem.