Episode 51: Ricardo Molina

Ricardo Molina was born into the restaurant business.  The original family restaurant was started by his grandparents in 1941. Today, he and his brothers Raul and Roberto operate three Molina’s Cantina locations, celebrating more than 80 years of success. The concept is a model for a family-owned business that prospers when everyone finds and carries out their area of expertise. "We contribute by overlapping and not competing," says Ricardo.

 

Ricardo praises his parents for the life lessons and work ethic he developed helping out in the business in his early teens. "My father reminded us that we may operate restaurants, but we manage people," says Ricardo.

 

In this episode, we learn how traditional family recipes and business practices formed the foundation of a restaurant concept that is recognized as a market leader. Molina’s Cantina continues to serve its popular traditional favorites, while also offering grilled specialties and fresh seasonal items. "We have always been committed to high quality and service standards, and I believe that impacts positively on our management and staff," says Ricardo.

 

"Today’s challenges are a little easier to overcome when you have longtime staff and purveyor relationships," says Ricardo, adding that he believes positive relationships with staff foster better relationships with guests and, in turn, drives loyalty and repeat business. And we believe he is right.