Today we’d like to introduce you to Oscar Ramos.
Hi Oscar, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started from humble beginnings, driven by a deep passion for hard work, family, and creating something meaningful. For years, I worked in construction, building not only homes and businesses but also my character and discipline. That experience taught me the value of precision, resilience, and leadership.
Eventually, my wife and I decided to bring a dream to life — a restaurant that would represent the true flavors of Mexico with a royal touch: El Taco Real. We wanted to create more than just a place to eat — we wanted to build an experience, where every taco tells a story of culture, authenticity, and pride.
From long nights during construction to the excitement of our grand opening, our journey has been filled with challenges, growth, and gratitude. Today, El Taco Real stands as a symbol of perseverance and love for our roots. We continue to grow, learning every day, and staying loyal to what got us here — family, flavor, and faith in the dream.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building El Taco Real was one of the biggest challenges of my life. We faced unexpected construction costs, delays, and moments when it felt like the dream was slipping away. We didn’t get approved for the SBA loan we were counting on, so we decided to fund the entire project ourselves through my construction company, GOAT Construction.
There were nights of exhaustion, pressure, and doubt — but also a deep sense of purpose that kept us going. Every obstacle forced us to grow stronger, to become more resourceful, and to lead with heart instead of fear.
In the end, all those struggles became part of our story. They remind me that success isn’t built on comfort — it’s built on resilience, faith, and the willingness to keep going no matter what stands in the way
We’ve been impressed with El Taco Real , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
El Taco Real is a family-owned Mexican restaurant located in Richfield, Minnesota. We specialize in authentic tacos made with handmade nixtamal tortillas, premium meats, and fresh ingredients — prepared with the same passion and respect our ancestors had for real Mexican food.
What sets us apart is our dedication to quality and storytelling. Every detail — from the design inspired by Aztec and Spanish royalty to our creative dishes like Honey Macha Wings and Papa Real — is part of an experience we call “The Real Taste of Royalty.”
We’re proud to represent Mexican culture with elegance, authenticity, and heart. Our goal is not just to serve food, but to share an experience — one that celebrates heritage, creativity, and community. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, we want every guest to feel like royalty.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding the right mentor starts with humility — being willing to learn and listen. In my experience, mentors aren’t always people you officially call “mentor.” Sometimes they’re leaders, business owners, or even friends who have walked the path you’re trying to build.
For me, surrounding myself with people who are smarter in specific areas has been key. I’ve learned from chefs, consultants, and entrepreneurs who challenge me to think bigger and stay grounded at the same time. The best networking doesn’t come from chasing opportunities — it comes from adding value, showing authenticity, and being consistent with your vision.
My advice: stay curious, stay humble, and never be afraid to ask questions. The right mentor will recognize your drive and help you see potential in yourself that you might have missed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eltacoreal.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eltacoreal24?igsh=ajU1Z2p1emhhMXB0
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BNG9Bq9VD/
