For four decades, El Mexicali Café has served up authentic home-style cooking — even in times of hardship and uncertainty.
INDIO, CA — El Mexicali Café's iconic location on Indio Boulevard over the last four decades is special. The restaurant has survived the tenures of six U.S. presidents (going on seven), and many big changes in the Coachella Valley.
The family-owned restaurant has shown a commitment to serving up authentic home-style cooking even in times of hardship and uncertainty.
On Friday, El Mexicali Café's owner, Monica Murguia, and her family will be recognized with a proclamation from City of Indio Mayor Elaine Holmes celebrating the eatery's 40 years of success.
"Not only is El Mexicali Café a staple in our downtown, but during Women's History Month it's also fitting we should mention that it is the oldest woman-owned restaurant in the Coachella Valley," Holmes said. "In addition, to recognize this achievement on the one-year anniversary of the COVID-shutdown shows the resiliency of this family and our community."
El Mexicali Café was started by Murguia's mother, Carmen. The business now has two
locations, including one at 43-430 Monroe St., which is run by Monica's sister Laura.
In 2016, El Mexicali Café was honored as the 56th Assembly District Small Business of the Year.
stock Wix photo