[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 30 (Thursday, February 13, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E126]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE CAREER OF JUAN FRANCISCO OCHOA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 13, 2025

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Juan Francisco ``Don 
Pancho'' Ochoa of Laredo, Texas. Mr. Ochoa is a longtime Laredo 
restaurateur and is integral to the culture of South Texas and beyond.
  Born in a large family in Sinaloa, Mexico, Mr. Ochoa first operated a 
small shoe store. After creating a novel way to marinate chicken, Mr. 
Ochoa knew he had a successful business opportunity.
  Soon after, Mr. Ochoa's restaurant success began in 1975 when he 
opened El Pollo Loco, a legendary restaurant chain across Mexico and 
into California.
  In 1987, Mr. Ochoa founded Taco Palenque, a second successful Mexican 
fast-casual chain. Today, Taco Palenque features 42 locations in Texas 
and Mexico.
  Finally, in Laredo 2005, Mr. Ochoa started Palenque Grill, a family-
style restaurant featuring live music and authentic Mexican recipes, 
many of which were created by his wife, Flerida.
  Mr. Ochoa is an exemplar of the American Dream. It is our country's 
promise that any dedicated, hard-working individual can build a 
business and thrive.
  As someone born and raised in Laredo, Texas, I have always enjoyed 
spending time with family and friends at Taco Palenque and Palenque 
Grill. These restaurants are an institution in South Texas and are a 
cornerstone of our community.
  On top of achieving the American Dream, Mr. Ochoa is also one of 
Laredo's greatest cultural ambassadors. His restaurants and kitchens 
bring the cuisine of south Texas and northern Mexico to the world.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating ``Don Pancho'' Ochoa 
for his incredible success.
  Let us all strive to share our passion for our communities and honor 
those who show what it means to be an American.

                          ____________________