Casa Rodriguez

A local institution since opening in 1978, Casa Rodriguez is the 2009 Readers' Choice for “Best Mexican Food.”

Founded by Richard and Beatrice Rodriguez with the blessings and recipes of Paul and Chelo Rodriguez, “Casa Rod” as loyal customers know it has been winning over lovers of great Mexican food for more than 30 years. Whether they come for a steaming plate of enchiladas, a delicious breakfast taco or a bowl of Casa Rodriguez's famous chili, customers can count on the great service this family-owned restaurant prides itself on.

“We stress to our employees that our customers' experience should always and will be one that they won't ever forget,” said Debbie Montalbano, daughter of Richard and Beatrice Rodriguez. “We make our customers feel as if they're family.”

While Casa Rodriguez opened in 1978, the true history of the restaurant stretches much farther back. The Rodriguez family cooking legacy dates back to 1898 when a young man from Zacatecas, Mexico named Manuel Rodriguez came to Bryan to work the railroads.

Manuel took the money he earned on the railroads and opened a Mexican restaurant behind the Ben Knox Saloon, near the railroad depot in downtown Bryan. He served homemade Mexican stew and other dishes that became very popular with both locals and travelers. Among those dishes was the chili recipe that is still served today at Casa Rodriguez.

Many of those recipes were passed down to Paul and Chelo Rodriguez, who passed them down to Richard and Beatrice, who in turn passed them down to Tommy and Debbie Montalbano. It is those cherished family recipes that set Casa Rodriguez apart from other restaurants in the area and have sent many a customer running to Downtown Bryan to get their “Casa Rod fix.”

Casa Rodriguez has worked hard for its recognition. The restaurant has won awards for their chips and salsa in the past, but this is the first time the entire menu has been recognized.

“It is a humbling feeling that makes our family proud to know that our hard work and team effort finally paid off,” Debbie said. “To all our loyal returning and future customers, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

Casa Rodriguez is located at 300 N. Bryan Avenue in Downtown Bryan. See their menu and specials online at www.casarod.com.

Join us for our nightly specials (5:00 pm to Close)

Tuesday
- Kids eat free from the Children's Menu with the purchase of an adult entrée

Wednesday
- Your choices of 3 enchiladas served with rice and beans, $5.99

Thursday
- 99¢ margarita with the purchase of any entrée