Today we’d like to introduce you to Jordan Mendez
Hi Jordan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Three years ago, I moved to Mankato from Columbus, Ohio, to invest in and help run my family’s business, El Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant. At the time, I had little experience in the restaurant or service industry, but I was eager to learn. Straight out of high school, I committed myself to mastering every aspect of the business, determined to elevate Mazatlan to new heights.
From washing dishes and prepping in the kitchen to bussing tables and tackling challenges like inflation and economic shifts, I embraced every part of the journey. No obstacle ever deterred my determination to grow and succeed. Every experience shaped my understanding of leadership, operations, and what it truly takes to run a thriving restaurant.
Expanding into Saint Peter has been a dream of mine since the day I arrived in Mankato. The city’s charm and the warmth of its people made an immediate impression on me. Now, three years later, that vision is coming to life, and I’m thrilled to bring something fresh, vibrant, and exciting to the Saint Peter community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Every challenge has been a lesson that’s shaped me as a business owner and leader.
When I first moved to Mankato, I had little experience in the restaurant industry. I had to start from the ground up—washing dishes, prepping food, and bussing tables—all while learning the ins and outs of running a business. It was humbling but necessary. I quickly realized that success in this industry isn’t just about serving great food; it’s about understanding operations, managing people, and adapting to constant change.
One of the biggest struggles has been navigating economic challenges, especially inflation. The rising cost of ingredients, labor, and supplies has made it difficult to maintain affordability for customers while keeping quality high. We’ve had to get creative—negotiating with suppliers, optimizing our menu, and finding ways to improve efficiency without cutting corners.
Another challenge has been building a strong team. The restaurant industry has seen major staffing shortages, and finding people who share our work ethic and values hasn’t always been easy. We’ve focused on creating a culture where employees feel valued and motivated, which has helped us build a loyal and hardworking team.
Despite the obstacles, I’ve never let setbacks define the journey. I see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve. Expanding into Saint Peter is proof of that perseverance, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about El Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant?
At El Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant, we’re more than just a place to eat—we’re an experience. While we stay true to our roots with authentic Mexican cuisine, we also love to shake things up by adding creative fusion elements to keep our menu exciting and unexpected. Our goal is to keep people talking, and the best way to do that is by continuously innovating—whether it’s through bold new flavors, seasonal menu additions, or inventive cocktails.
Visual Appeal & Social Media
Presentation is just as important as taste. We put great care into making our dishes and drinks visually striking, creating that “wow” factor that makes them irresistible to share. From beautifully plated entrees to handcrafted cocktails designed for the perfect Instagram shot, we aim to turn every meal into a moment worth capturing. You can see this in action on our social media:
📸 Instagram: @mazatlanmankato
🎥 TikTok: @El.mazatlan
Hospitality & Service
What truly sets us apart is our hospitality. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’re welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm. Our staff is trained to ensure that guests feel acknowledged and appreciated, with multiple greetings before they even take their seat. Genuine hospitality is becoming rare in the industry, but for us, it’s second nature.
Systems & Training
A great restaurant is only as strong as the systems behind it. At El Mazatlan, we have comprehensive training programs in place to ensure consistency, efficiency, and excellence at every level:
Training & Development – Our front-of-house team undergoes extensive training focused on customer service, table management, and handling high-volume dining with ease.
Communication Systems – We prioritize clear and effective communication between front and back-of-house teams to create a seamless dining experience.
Operational Efficiency – From inventory management to kitchen workflow optimization, we continuously refine our processes to maximize quality and speed without compromising service.
Technology & Innovation – We leverage POS systems, customer feedback tools, and data-driven insights to improve operations and enhance guest satisfaction.
Marketing & Community Engagement
Beyond the dining experience, we take our marketing and community engagement seriously. We work with content creators to expand our social media presence, experiment with targeted marketing strategies, and continuously look for new ways to connect with our guests.
We also run a loyalty program designed to reward our regulars, strengthening the bond between our restaurant and the people who love it. Whether through exclusive deals, special events, or early access to new menu items, we believe in giving back to the guests who support us.
Looking Ahead
As we expand into Saint Peter, we’re excited to bring the same energy, creativity, and passion to a new community. Whether it’s through our food, service, or the atmosphere we create, our goal remains the same: to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
Any big plans?
Future Plans for Mazatlan of Saint Peter
At Mazatlan of Saint Peter, we are excited to introduce new and innovative dining options that set us apart from traditional Mexican restaurants. Our goal is to offer a fresh, authentic, and convenient experience while maintaining the warm hospitality that defines our brand.
One of the biggest additions will be our Burrito & Bowl Bar, where customers can customize their meals by selecting fresh ingredients, creating a personalized dining experience. Unlike large chain restaurants that offer a similar concept, our focus will be on authentic flavors, high-quality ingredients, and a fresher approach. This is an idea that we see great potential in, as it requires minimal space and labor costs, making it an efficient and scalable addition for the future.
Another major development is the implementation of a drive-thru, a critical feature given our location right off the highway. We expect to attract travelers and locals looking for a quick, high-quality meal on the go. Since this will be our first time operating a drive-thru, we plan to roll it out in phases—starting with a to-go pickup system before fully launching drive-thru service. This allows us to perfect our system and ensure smooth, efficient service before expanding its capabilities.
For added convenience, we will also introduce designated curbside pickup spots, ensuring superior organization and efficiency for customers who prefer to order ahead and have their meal brought to their car.
We are also stepping up our catering game, creating a more structured and user-friendly catering menu. Our goal is to offer superior organization and clarity, making it easier for customers to select the perfect package for their event. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large corporate function, our catering services will be designed to provide seamless ordering, customizable options, and exceptional quality.
Of course, we are still dedicated to a full dine-in experience, where guests can enjoy our signature hospitality and warm atmosphere. The restaurant will feature a beautifully designed bar with seating for 12, offering handcrafted cocktails and a lively, inviting setting.
With all these elements coming together, Mazatlan of Saint Peter will be a true hybrid concept, combining the best of fast-casual convenience, full-service dining, and innovative food offerings. By leveraging the talent and expertise of our team, we have full confidence that this vision will come to life seamlessly.
We can’t wait to bring something fresh and exciting to Saint Peter, and we’re looking forward to seeing the community embrace everything we have to offer! 🚀
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elmazatlanfood.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mazatlanmankato/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mazatlanmankato
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@el.mazatlan
