By JACKIE MOE
On July 7, 1972, the Fraser family opened their first Mexican food restaurant, Don Jose Mexican Restaurant, in Orange, California. The establishment quickly became known for its simple, fresh, and authentic dishes, crafted by expert cooks from Jalisco, Mexico.
The restaurant’s origins trace back to founders Roderick and Patricia Fraser. Rod, a World War II veteran pilot from Oregon, and Patricia, a local from Orange, married in 1944 and rode the wave of the post-war economic boom. By the 1960s, restaurants had become the family’s main business venture.
With the help of their eldest son, Rick, the Frasers expanded their presence, opening locations throughout Orange County and the Inland Empire. In 2017, the Fraser family consolidated all Don Jose restaurants under a new brand, Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill, in honor of their late father, Rod.
Today, Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill remains a family-owned and operated business, with seven siblings and 25 third-generation cousins actively involved. Locations include Orange, Corona, Huntington Beach, Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, Laguna Hills, Tustin, Montclair, Riverside and Temecula.
Melinda Fraser, granddaughter of Fraser and Rodrigo’s Social Media Manager, said the restaurant’s “employees and customers are just as much family as the relatives.” Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill prides itself on its dedicated employees, many of whom have risen through the ranks to top management positions, becoming part of the Fraser’s extended family.
Culinary Tour
Fraser accompanied Backstage SoCal at the Corona location with a fiery passion for her family’s brand and food. This Father’s Day on June 16, the restaurant will offer an all-day Happy Hour and several special menu items, including the “Big Daddy Burger” which includes a double beef patty, cheese, pickles, sauce, lettuce, and topped with a roasted jalapeno with steak fries on the side.
Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill offers a delightful culinary experience that blends authentic Mexican flavors with fresh, local ingredients. The menu boasts an array of delicious dishes, starting with the sizzling fajitas, a customer favorite. The fajitas are a symphony of flavors and textures, served piping hot with perfectly seasoned meats and a vibrant medley of sautéed vegetables.
Another standout dish is the Baja fish tacos. These tacos feature crispy, golden-brown fish fillets topped with a refreshing slaw and a tangy crema, all nestled in soft, warm tortillas. The combination of fresh seafood and zesty toppings makes for a memorable bite.
For those seeking a lighter option, the Caesar salad at Rodrigo’s does not disappoint. Made with crisp romaine lettuce, avocados, corn, tomatoes, black beans, and beets, the salad is elevated by a tangy dressing that ties all the components together perfectly.
Rodrigo’s drink menu is equally impressive. The Mariachi Margarita is a refreshing twist on the classic, with a balanced blend of tequila, lime, and a hint of orange liqueur. The Espresso Martini offers a rich, robust flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a caffeinated kick with their cocktail.
The Mezcal a La Antigua Old Fashioned provides a smoky take on a timeless drink, while the Paloma delivers a refreshing and citrusy punch, ideal for warm evenings.
Dessert at Rodrigo’s is a must-try. The Kahlua Fudge Mudd Pie is a decadent treat, with layers of rich fudge and a hint of coffee liqueur. The Deep Fried Ice Cream is a nostalgic favorite, featuring a crispy, golden shell encasing a scoop of velvety ice cream. The fresh house-made churros, dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a dipping sauce, are the perfect sweet ending to a fantastic meal.
For more info, visit: https://rodrigos.com/
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