Our History
“A little corner of our homeland” is how Don Pancho describes Palenque Grill®.
What began as a lifelong dream for the Ochoa family became a reality on July 31, 2005, when the first Palenque Grill® opened its doors in Laredo, Texas. Since then, Palenque Grill has brought the authentic flavors, traditions, and hospitality of Northern Mexico to every guest who walks through its doors.
1975
Juan Francisco “Don Pancho” Ochoa began his journey in the restaurant industry in 1975 by founding El Pollo Loco® in his hometown of Guasave, Sinaloa, on Mexico’s northern Pacific coast. His passion for authentic Mexican cuisine and dedication to quality laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong legacy in hospitality.
1980
By 1980, El Pollo Loco® had expanded throughout Mexico before crossing the border and opening its first U.S. location in Los Angeles, California. This milestone introduced Don Pancho’s vision and recipes to a new audience while continuing the family’s commitment to authentic Mexican flavors.
1985
Taco Palenque® was born and progressively gained the reputation as one of South Texas’ most preferred places to eat. Don Pancho had done it again. He created a 100% Mexican fast casual chain which today serves thousands of customers throughout South Texas every year.
2005
For many years, Don Pancho dreamed of opening a full-service Mexican restaurant where guests could enjoy authentic regional cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere accompanied by live piano, trio, and mariachi music. He even kept the original restaurant design displayed in his office as a reminder of that dream.
In 2005, alongside his son Carlos “Charles” Ochoa, that dream became a reality with the opening of the first Palenque Grill® in Laredo, Texas.
The welcoming atmosphere at Palenque Grill reflects the Ochoa family’s hands-on involvement. Don Pancho’s wife, Flerida Ochoa, contributed many treasured family recipes that continue to inspire the menu, while other members of the Ochoa family have played an important role in the restaurant’s continued success and growth.
Our Cuisine
Palenque Grill proudly serves authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Mexico’s North Pacific Coast, including the states of Sinaloa, Sonora, Baja California, and Baja California Sur. Every dish is prepared with authentic recipes, regional flavors, and the finest quality ingredients to provide guests with an unforgettable dining experience.
And if you’re looking for Don Pancho’s personal favorite, be sure to try the Tintas de Filete al Albañil (Bricklayer’s Steak Tips).