Our In Their Words series of blogposts introduces you to businesses throughout Texas that Mission works with. Hear from chefs and owners as they discuss recipes for success and how Mission Restaurant Supply helps along the way. This post was originally published on September 18, 2017, with the title Joe T. Garcia's: A Household Name.

Watch the Joe T. Garcia's video here:

A trip to Fort Worth landmark Joe T. Garcia's is a feast for the senses. On any given day, the lines outside this famous restaurant snake and coil while the aromas of freshly-cooked Mexican food beckon the venue's loyal patronage.

In the expansive courtyard and patio, diners feast on the famed Garcia family's recipes amidst a verdant backdrop of lush, green plants, gurgling fountains, and joyful music.

"We're putting out thousands and thousands of dinners, so when I buy a product from Mission, I know they've done their work of making sure I'm going to buy the best that I can for what I need."

More than just a restaurant, Joe T. Garcia's has become a home away from home for countless locals in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Much like our own company, family is a cornerstone of the experience at Joe T. Garcia's.

Today, the restaurant is still entirely owned and operated by the Garcia family, and this warm, family spirit is what has made it beloved throughout the years.

Since its founding in 1935, the business has grown from a small, one-room operation with a seating capacity of just 16 people to a landmark institution that can seat well over 1,000 patrons.

The reason for this success? A dedication to treasured family recipes, consistency, and great service. "These are the same recipes from my grandmother from day one," said Joe T. Lancarte, whose grandparents, Joe T. and Jessie Garcia, started the restaurant over 80 years ago.

On a recent trip to the restaurant, Lancarte took us into the back of the house, where we sampled hot, savory fajita meat, marinated with a guarded concoction of spices and unique flavors.

From every angle, the kitchen was alive with energy and activity. We watched as fresh tortillas were pressed, vibrant ingredients were chopped, and the sizzling sounds of a cooktop became the soundtrack of the kitchen.

Quality is everything at Joe T.'s, and this commitment to delivering quality food transcends to the caliber of products with which they fill their kitchen.

"It's very very important if I buy a product – number one is quality," said Lancarte. Of course, reliable, dependable kitchen equipment and smallwares are crucial to any successful food service operation, but particularly one with the extreme volume of Joe T's. "We're putting out thousands and thousands of dinners, so when I buy a product from Mission, I know they've done their work of making sure I'm going to buy the best that I can for what I need."

It's a pleasure to do business with the Garcia family, whom we count as an extension of our own Mission family. Over the years, we have built a strong partnership founded on trust, friendship, and shared values.

At the end of the day, relationships like this one make all of us at Mission Restaurant Supply passionate about what we do, and we are honored to be a small part of their success.

Some favorite equipment and supply categories include:

• Commercial Griddles
• Ice Machines
• Refrigeration
• Turners and Spatulas
• Fajita Skillets

Joe T. Garcia's is located at
2201 N. Commerce St.
Fort Worth, Texas 76164.
Phone: 817-626-4356
(joetgarcias.com)