For those seeking authentic Mexican comfort food in North County, San Diego, the name Lourdes Mexican Food Escondido likely rings a bell. What began as a humble taco and cake shop in Escondido has blossomed into a beloved local chain, now boasting four locations and with eyes on further expansion. This is the story of the Parra family and their dedication to sharing the taste of Sonora, Mexico, with their adopted community.
In 1986, Hector and Lourdes Parra, captivated by the charm of Escondido during a family vacation, decided to relocate from Mexico with their four young children. Two years later, in 1988, their entrepreneurial journey began with a small storefront on Escondido Boulevard. Hector took charge of the taco grill, while Lourdes showcased her baking skills with traditional tres leches cakes.
However, the sweltering Escondido summers prompted Lourdes to rethink her baking endeavors. As Hector recounts, “She told me, ‘No more cakes.'” This pivotal moment led Lourdes to shift her focus towards savory dishes, drawing upon her culinary roots. She began crafting enchiladas, seafood specialties, and, most notably, her mother’s cherished chicken soup recipe from Sonora.
This family chicken soup became the cornerstone of Lourdes Mexican Food’s enduring popularity. Lourdes, the restaurant’s namesake and culinary heart, had learned the art of making this comforting soup from her mother in Sonora, Mexico. She started preparing it in large quantities, initially for restaurants, including one she and Hector owned previously. While Hector admits to a slight “Americanization” of the recipe, the core essence remains true to its familial origins. “It’s a secret ingredient in the salsa added to it that makes it special,” Hector reveals, hinting at the magic that keeps customers coming back for more.
The original Lourdes Mexican Food Escondido location on Escondido Boulevard is a testament to their success. During lunchtime, the line often stretches out the door, a clear indication of the restaurant’s local appeal. Hector acknowledges the power of word-of-mouth, media attention, social media buzz, and, of course, his wife’s signature chicken soup in driving this popularity.
What makes this soup so iconic? It’s characterized by generous chunks of tender white meat, a hearty scoop of rice, a sprinkle of onion and cilantro, and creamy avocado wedges on top. Each steaming bowl is accompanied by warm corn or flour tortillas, crispy tortilla chips, flavorful salsa, and spicy carrots, creating a complete and satisfying meal. The soup has become so renowned that locals reportedly deliver it to friends battling the flu, and the Parras’ son, Alex, playfully jokes about doctors recommending it, given their catering services to the pharmaceutical industry.
Lourdes Mexican Food exterior showcasing rooster and hens decorations
Beyond the delicious food, the original Lourdes Mexican Food Escondido location fosters a strong sense of community. The familiar rooster and hen decorations adorning the building’s exterior, unchanged since its opening, contribute to its welcoming and nostalgic atmosphere. It has become a cherished gathering spot for Escondido locals to connect and enjoy a meal together.
While the newer Lourdes Mexican Food locations in San Marcos and Cardiff, managed by the Parra children, embrace a more modern aesthetic, the commitment to quality and family recipes remains unwavering. Each morning, family members diligently prepare batches of Lourdes’ signature soup at every location, adhering to her precise recipe. Scratch-made rice, beans, and other menu staples like salads, burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas are also prepared fresh daily.
Lourdes Mexican Food chicken soup with corn tortillas
Customer preferences vary slightly across locations. Cardiff patrons lean towards salads, enchiladas, chile rellenos, and tacos, while the second Escondido outpost on El Norte Parkway, conveniently situated inside a Shell gas station, has gained a reputation for its breakfast burritos. Yet, the chicken soup remains the undisputed iconic comfort food staple across all Lourdes Mexican Food restaurants.
Now grandparents to five grandchildren, Lourdes at 65 and Hector at 70 are looking towards the future. Their adult children are poised to continue the family legacy, with plans to expand further into Oceanside or Carlsbad. Hector expresses his contentment with their decision to settle in Escondido, stating, “I like this country.” The Parras family still calls Escondido home and hopes to eventually pass the torch to the next generation and enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
Lourdes Mexican Food interior at Escondido Boulevard store
Visit Lourdes Mexican Food
IN ESCONDIDO
650 S Escondido Blvd, Escondido
(760) 746-1141
615 W El Norte Pkwy, Escondido (Inside the Shell gas station)
760-746-1389
IN SAN MARCOS
1646 San Elijo Road, Ste 103, San Marcos
760-290-3784
IN CARDIFF
2113 San Elijo Avenue, Cardiff-by-the-Sea
760-230-2610
