La Palmera Family Mexican Restaurant isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with family tradition, authentic Mexican flavors, and a deep-rooted commitment to community. With established locations in Everett and Mill Creek, and an eagerly anticipated opening in Seattle, La Palmera is a true testament to the American dream, built on hard work and a passion for sharing Mexican culinary heritage.
From Dishwasher to Owner: Hector Mendoza’s Inspiring Journey
Hector Mendoza’s story is the heart of La Palmera. Growing up in a small town in Jalisco, Mexico, Hector embarked on his restaurant journey shortly after arriving in the U.S. in 1985. Seattle became his new home, and a restaurant near Seattle Center marked the starting point of his impressive career. He began as a dishwasher, diligently learning every facet of the business as he climbed the ladder to cook, chef, and eventually front-of-house roles like busboy, server, bartender, and general manager.
His wife, Amelia, also became part of the restaurant world, working as a server at La Palmera in Everett. Her connection to the restaurant led to Hector joining the team. After dedicating 11 years to mastering the restaurant industry, and having proven his skills and dedication at La Palmera, Hector was offered a partnership. His leadership and vision ultimately led him to become the majority owner. Under his guidance, La Palmera flourished, cultivating a loyal following that paved the way for a second successful location in Mill Creek.
“I love connecting with people and creating a welcoming atmosphere where they feel like they’re at home,” Hector explains. “That personal touch is something people truly value. I make it a point to be at the front, greeting guests. They remember that, and it’s why they return, bringing friends, their families, and watching their children grow up and eventually bring in their own families.”
Authentic Flavors Straight from Jalisco
The allure of La Palmera lies in its commitment to authentic Mexican cuisine. Many of the dishes are rooted in cherished family recipes from Hector’s hometown in Jalisco. This dedication to genuine flavors extends to their cocktails as well. In his quest for the perfect tequila, Hector journeyed back to Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila. There, he personally selected barrels of exceptional tequila, ensuring a unique and high-quality spirit, bottled and branded exclusively for La Palmera, soon to be enjoyed by their patrons.
Family Values Extend Beyond the Restaurant Walls
Family isn’t just in the name; it’s the very foundation of La Palmera. Thirty percent of La Palmera’s employees are members of Hector’s family. Many other staff members have dedicated years, ranging from five to twenty, to the restaurant, becoming an integral part of the La Palmera family. “They’re more than employees; they’re family,” Hector says of his long-term team.
This sense of family extends outwards to the broader community. Hector and La Palmera are deeply committed to giving back, actively supporting local schools, churches, and non-profit organizations through fundraising initiatives. Organizations such as Picnic Point Elementary School, Glacier Peak High School, Henry M. Jackson High School, St. Mary Magdalen Parish & St. John Mission, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church have all benefited from La Palmera’s generosity.
Shannon Everist, parish administrator at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, affirms, “La Palmera is exceptionally generous to our parish and does phenomenal work in supporting the community.”
Expanding the Family to Seattle – South Lake Union Location Coming Soon
La Palmera’s family is set to grow even further with the highly anticipated opening of their new Seattle location in the South Lake Union neighborhood. With an opening date planned for March 30th, La Palmera is bringing its authentic Mexican flavors and warm family hospitality to a new community.
“Community is at the heart of everything we do,” Hector emphasizes. “We are dedicated to supporting children, schools, and non-profits in every way we can. We believe we are all part of one big family.”
La Palmera Family Mexican Restaurant invites you to experience the warmth of Mexican family hospitality and the authentic taste of Jalisco. Visit their Everett, Mill Creek, or soon-to-open Seattle location and become a part of their growing family.
