[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 121 (Tuesday, September 11, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1482]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO MITLA CAFE

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                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 11, 2012

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask Congress to pay tribute to 
an outstanding business in San Bernardino, California--Mitla Cafe. This 
September, Mitla Cafe will be celebrating its 75th year as their family 
restaurant serving the people of Southern California.
  Mitla Cafe is the oldest continually operating restaurant in San 
Bernardino, and one of the oldest Mexican restaurants in Southern 
California. Mitla Cafe serves standard Mexican fare--tacos, burritos, 
and fresh tortillas. They pride themselves in fresh food, which keeps 
the locals coming back for more. Today, the restaurant remains in its 
original location, off historic Route 66 in San Bernardino.
  This family owned business was founded in 1937, by Lucia and Salvador 
Rodriguez. Until her passing in 1981, Lucia ran the restaurant with the 
help of her daughters Theresa, Helen, and Vera. After the death of her 
mother, Vera continued to manage the restaurant with the same 
understanding and passion for the community that her mother held. After 
Vera passed away in 1984, Lucia and Salvador's youngest son, Frank 
Montano, and his wife Irene continued the family business. Today, Mitla 
Cafe is managed by the founders' great-grandson, Steven Oquendo. The 
family restaurant atmosphere and exceptional food keeps residents 
coming to Mitla Cafe even after they have moved out of the area. From 
my own personal experience, my family and I have always enjoyed dining 
at Mitla Cafe.
  To celebrate their 75th year anniversary, Mitla Cafe hosted an event 
on Saturday September 8th, which featured live music by the Scott 
Martin Latin Soul Band. Earlier this June, Mitla Cafe also hosted an 
anniversary event, featuring Bruce Conte and the Jazz Junkies.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating San 
Bernardino's oldest restaurant, Mitla Cafe for their 75th anniversary.

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