About Us | Our Story

Three Generations of Authentic Mexican Cuisine

From a hospital kitchen in Mission Viejo to President Nixon’s Western White House — the Olamendi’s story spans over 50 years of family, tradition, and authentic Mexican flavors.

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Where It All Began

The story of Olamendi’s begins with Don Jorge Olamendi, born in Veracruz in the southeastern stretches of Mexico. As a boy, Jorge learned the art of traditional Mexican cooking from his mother, Doña Christina Torres de Olamendi — a master of authentic recipes passed down from her own mother, Doña Concepción Reyes, in the state of Puebla. His mother had also studied with the nuns of the Convent of Santa Clara, renowned for their culinary arts.

For young Jorge, the kitchen was more than a place for meals — it was a classroom. Trips to the market became lessons in quality and tradition. His mother taught him the subtle differences between chiles, from the smoky depth of dried poblano peppers to the fiery kick of chile de árbol. She showed him how to judge the ripeness of tomatoes, the freshness of cilantro, and the perfect scent of dried oregano.

From Mission Viejo Hospital to Restaurant Dream

As a young man, Don Jorge moved to California and began working in the doctor’s lounge of a hospital right here in Mission Viejo, where his authentic Mexican cooking brought comfort and joy to everyone he served. The doctors loved his dishes and often encouraged him: “Why don’t you open your own place?”

Those words sparked a dream. Though Jorge believed in his family’s recipes, opening a restaurant seemed far-fetched — until 15 doctors offered to help fund his vision.

1973: A Dream Becomes Reality

In 1973, Don Jorge and his wife Doña Maria Olamendi opened their first restaurant on El Camino Real in San Clemente, California — a small, family-owned spot where they began serving authentic dishes most Californians had never tasted. Using recipes from his mother and grandmothers, Jorge served mole poblano alongside fish and lobster tacos — delicacies that were brand new to the area.

Maria’s journey in the kitchen became a cornerstone of the Olamendi’s story. At just 19 years old, she had to learn to cook both for her family and the growing restaurant. Unsure at first, she often called her mother for guidance — even for simple dishes like beans and rice. Her mother patiently shared the secrets that made these recipes special. Today, those same recipes remain central to our menu.

The Monday Tradition

In the 1970s, sourcing authentic Mexican ingredients in Southern California was a real challenge. Determined to preserve the integrity of their cuisine, Jorge and Maria closed the restaurant one day each week to drive all the way to Tijuana for essential spices and ingredients. This tradition of dedication and authenticity continues today — the restaurant remains closed on Mondays as a tribute to those early days of uncompromising quality.

Cooking for the President

One of the most remarkable chapters in the Olamendi’s story came when President Richard Nixon became a regular guest. Living nearby at the Western White House in San Clemente, Nixon discovered Olamendi’s and kept coming back. His genuine warmth and respect left a lasting impression on Don Jorge — Nixon greeted everyone from cooks to busboys with the same humility.

Nixon’s favorite dish, Pollo a la Veracruzana, became a symbol of Olamendi’s authenticity. When the President invited Don Jorge to cook for him at the Western White House, it was a dream come true — a testament to the family’s hard work and passion for authentic Mexican cuisine.

Olamendi’s Mission Viejo: The Legacy Continues

Today, three generations of the Olamendi family proudly serve Orange County, continuing the legacy Jorge and Maria began over 50 years ago. Our Mission Viejo location brings the same commitment to fresh, authentic Mexican cooking to the heart of South Orange County.

With 338 reviews on Yelp and recognition as one of the highest-rated Mexican restaurants in Orange County, we’re honored that our community continues to welcome us as part of the family. Our tequila cocktails have been voted “Best Cocktail in America” by Restaurant Hospitality Magazine three years running.

Whether you’re here for our famous mole poblano, our award-winning margaritas, or simply a warm, family atmosphere — Olamendi’s Mission Viejo is where every meal feels like home.