Taqueria Arandas

When Jose Camarena moved to Texas in 1981, he had a mission in mind... He wanted to buy a taco truck and sell his food on the street corners of Houston, much as he had done in Chicago for the previous two years. Camarena found something startling though. Houston had few, if any, of the taquerias that were so popular in Mexico and Chicago. There were plenty of Mexican restaurants here, but not the tiny businesses that sell tacos fast and cheap, authentic Mexican style. He decided to open his own place in Houston, and that place become known as the first Taquerias Arandas at 4609 Irvington.There are currently over 33 Taquerias Arandas locations, plus 4 Bakeries, and Seafood houses. Camarena has sold all of the taquerias to family members and investors, who operate them under franchise arrangements. Taquerias Arandas is exploding in growth, and will be expanding into many more franchises in the coming years, not only in Houston, but future growth will include additional cities. The name of the business comes from Camarena's hometown in Mexico, Arandas. The church he proudly displays on his menus is from his hometown. Camarena and his family are very religious, and never want to forget their strong Christian roots. "We Believe we are here because God, and the picture is how we express our thanks".