A Tale of Two Restaurants

When Bernardino and Gloria Bugarin came to America from Zacatecas, Mexico, their dream was to offer great Mexican food and drinks, and a slice of Zacatecas to America.

When Pepe’s was opened in 1970 in La Cañada, that dreamed was partially fulfilled. Pepe’s was a runaway success, garnering a loyal following that helped the Bugarin family fulfill the other half of their dream – opening Margaritas in 1977, in Pasadena.

Currently, Pepe’s and Margaritas are being run by the second generation of Bugarins, and customers still come for the delicious Mexican food and amazing drinks being served by the two restaurants. Many old customers have grown up with the restaurants, seeing both transform. Margaritas was first, expanding in the 90s, while in 2008, Pepe’s relocated from La Canada to a more pedestrian friendly location on Honolulu Ave. in Montrose.

Both are not only known for great food and drinks however, and the Bugarins pride on their restaurant’s top-notch service. The Bugarins make sure that their staff is friendly and efficient, and to give customers the importance they so deserve.

The ambience for both restaurants is a relaxed and casual vibe. People are invited to eat and have fun with their families in Pepe’s and Margaritas, and not be stifled by formal graces reserved for the more ‘fancy restaurants.’

But though the service and ambience are part of the reason why customers come back, it’s the food and drinks that shine for Pepe’s and Margaritas. From the beef tacos with beans and rice, enchiladas, shrimp in broth and rellenos, to the fantastic drinks like Margarita Martini, Michelada, Chelada, Chabela and more,

It’s been more than 40 years since Pepe’s opened, and 30+ years since Margaritas graced our city, and yet both still continue to provide quality food, refreshments and service consistently. We have the Bugarins to thank for, from founders Bernardino and Gloria, to the second generation Rolando and Ruby. The family has done well to preserve the spirit of Zacatecas through the restaurants food and drink, but also Mexican hospitality and feel through the service and ambience.

Pepe’s and Margaritas are here to stay, and if you haven’t done so, go and visit to experience the hype.

To find out more about Pepe’s and Margaritas, visit http://www.margaritasmexicanfood.com. Margaritas is located at 155 S. Rosemead Blvd. while Pepe’s is located at Honolulu Ave., Montrose. For more information, call (626) 449-4193 for Margaritas, and (818) 248-6622 for Pepe’s.