Margarita’s is a true story that hard work and quality products is the foundation to great success. Ron Abarca & Dave Quirarte were friends since childhood to eventually grow-up working for a local automotive company with a dream to open a restaurant.
As kids they both grew-up in their grandmothers kitchen acquiring a taste for authentic Mexican food. By the time they were working together they used that talent to obtain new golf clubs. Not able to keep up with the demands of the burritos being made for their co-workers on their lunch break, the sprout of making the small burrito business into something bigger was looking like more of a reality. After borrowing and selling the shirts off their backs they pooled their monies together to start MARGARITA’S on the BLVD on October 16, 1985. They were by far not set. They worked the grave yard shift at the automotive factory then on to the lunch and dinner shifts at their new restaurant. Not leaving much time for their families; they sacrificed to make their dream survive.
In 1986 disaster struck. The 1st of three floods took the restaurant under 4 feet of water. It seemed as if there was no hope. The small time business owners were not prepared for this kind of catastrophe Margarita’s had become such a fan favorite that locals and restaurant regulars helped clean-up and re-build, so Ron & Dave could continue their pursuit. Because they realized the sacrifice of their neighbors they vowed to give back to the community.
Soon after Margarita’s started being notably recognized with high praise write-ups in local newspapers’ and an abundance of awards ranging from Best Burrito and Tacos to Best Mexican Restaurant. Their remarkable 3 hour wait times launched them into a city craze.
Seeing the potential of success Margarita’s could generate, a long time friend and auto co-worker sought to become a partner. In 1990 Larry Gromer and Margarita’s North became part of the family. This Gladstone location has become the ultimate success forming a following of loyal and fun loving guests who have made it an ultimate attainment.
The North location has presented its own bulk of awards all being the best in Mexican Restaurant and receiving a beautification award from the city for their cleanliness. This store has excelled in all areas of service and quality.
Yet another flood ripped through Turkey Creek in 1991 this time leaving devastation with 6 foot waters. This excess water destroyed the Boulevard location and left it to be rebuilt. This time with the help of the staff and pre-preparation from the last time Ron and Dave had the Boulevard back in business within a few months after the storm.
The three amigos were far from finished. Through some turmoil a 3rd location was formed in Shawnee noted as Margarita’s West in 1993. This was a bit different as far as locations were to go. There was a deep stairwell and a small venue which maintained a lasting line. Margarita’s West was a huge hit in the JOCO community. Again this restaurant received rave reviews in their local papers and became a neighborhood favorite. Awards poured in and the lines got longer.
Not long after in 1993 the lasting of all torrential downpours struck. Margarita’s Boulevard photos made national headlines showing the devastation that took over Kansas City. This being the worst of the 3 floods it had reached an all time high of 8 feet deep. Leaving stranded two of Ron’s brothers on the roof who were trying to sandbag the restaurant when the wave of the creek took over. The rainfall was so devastating during that time Margarita’s West also took on about 3 feet of water. Ron, Dave and Larry had their work cut out for them. Margarita’s West was open for business within in days of the disaster. It would be months for the Boulevard.
The city has since rerouted the waters of the creek and done many renovations that have made the area “safe” from floods. However nerves still arise knowing the hard labors that have taken place to keep their dreams afloat.
Another set back. In 1998 Margarita’s West had a kitchen fire that happened in the overnight hours. The three immediately went to work and had the restaurant ready for service within a month’s time. However being in a lower level location would have its toll with occasional wading water throughout the years.
Although the 3 restaurants were a success there seemed to be something missing….AHH! The grocery stores. The guys set their sights on taking their salsas’ to the supermarket shelves and what a success it has been. They have since added their famous dips and are currently underway to have their spice packets for sale. This would allow any faithful follower to make our award wining food in the comfort of their own kitchen.
Soon after, the three were still trying to find ways to please their guests. It was nearing time for summer and what better than a Margarita, chips and salsa on the patio. So a patio addition to the North location was a no brainer. Ready to go in the spring for all the Gladstone dwellers misfortune struck again in the spring of 2008. Bursts of high winds and tornados took out the infamous North location and its unused patio. The restaurant was so overcome with disaster it took longer than any other Margarita’s disastrous closings to overcome. Yet again, Margarita’s North persevered and set record days among their re-opening in November of 2008 elating their loyal fans.
November of 2008 was a great time for Margarita’s. The three had decided that they had run their course in the Shawnee location. They needed more space and less of a staircase. Unable to find a location in Shawnee they ventured to a perfect spot 2 miles south in Lenexa. The opening of the Lenexa store was a whirl wind of exciting things to come. It has been welcomed by both the city new guests and old.
Remembering that 1st flood and their vow to help the community. Margarita’s donates food, service, and monies to many charities, schools, and churches in remembrance of the initial aid they received.
Through it all and 25 years Margarita’s Amigos established name represents great food, fun atmosphere, and at-home service will continue to be the backbone that strengthens its core. The best part is….it’s still just beginning.