A Story of Passion, Fight, and Flavor: 14 Years of The Mexican in Vancouver
It all began in the summer of 2003, when Claudia Romo, originally from Michoacán, and Cecilia Dander, from Cocoyoc, Morelos, strangers to each other, arrived in Vancouver with a dream in their hearts and hope to build something beautiful. Little did they know, that journey would mark the beginning of a story that would make a before and after in the city’s culinary scene.
They met working at Pacific Centre, selling T-shirts, and in 2009, they worked together again at a Mexican restaurant in Yaletown.
Amid long workdays and sleepless nights, an idea emerged that, at the time, seemed crazy: to open an authentic Mexican restaurant in Vancouver’s Entertainment District.
A crazy idea born from a deep love for their homeland, their culture, and their desire to share that magic with anyone eager to experience it.
In March 2011, they opened the doors of The Mexican Antojitos y Cantina. From the very beginning, they were convinced that there was much more to show of true Mexican cuisine, and that their mission was to convey that passion through every dish.
The Mexican community in Vancouver welcomed them from day one with pride and affection, and local press, including journalists like Mia Stainsby and Alexandra Gill, quickly recognized the quality of their work, highlighting the flavor, dedication, and commitment they put into each plate.
Over these 14 years, this small space with a Mexican soul has been much more than just a restaurant. It’s a refuge of shared stories, emotions that cross borders, and traditions that remain alive.
Here, unforgettable moments have taken place: customers turned friends and co-workers who are now family in Vancouver.
On January 2020 the world would be shaken with the arrival of COVID-19. But Claudia and Cecilia worked very hard to adapt to the constant changes that this event brought to this beautiful city. Day by day, step by step they managed to keep that spirit alive, preserving everything they had built with so much effort and love.
The years passed and the story kept writing itself without thinking that in 2025, they faced another challenge: a fire in the neighboring establishment damaged their premises.
Two months of uncertainty, tears, and sacrifices, but also of renewed determination to rise again. Because when you love something with all your soul, no obstacle can extinguish that inner fire.
Today, The Mexican reopens its doors stronger than ever, with the same flavor that has won hearts and an image that reflects their evolution.
But above all, with that warrior spirit that never gives up in the face of adversity and continues to believe in the power of food to unite, heal, and tell stories.
Today, we celebrate 14 years of passion, fight, and flavor.
And we look forward with the same hope, the same love, and the same faith that the best is yet to come.