When it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine, Burrito King is a name that stands out on the local dining scene. What began as a small, struggling business has grown into a community favorite known for its vibrant flavors, late-night service, and welcoming atmosphere. Here are five things you should know about this beloved establishment.

1. It Was Built Through Passion and Resilience

The story of Burrito King is one of perseverance and determination. In 2011, Angelina and Max Cruz were working at Burrito King when an unexpected opportunity arose: the chance to purchase the business. Max was a cook, while Angelina worked as a cashier, and both had long dreamed of owning a restaurant. With little money but immense ambition, they decided to take the leap.

“We jumped into the business with our eyes closed,” Angelina recalled. “The restaurant was struggling, but we believed we could bring it back to life.” The couple had previously started catering from their home, and their goal was to open a food truck. Instead, they found themselves revitalizing a local eatery, determined to make it a success and bring authentic Mexican flavors to their community.

Over the years, Burrito King has become a staple for those craving high-quality Mexican dishes at fair prices. Despite starting with limited resources, Angelina and Max turned the business around through hard work, a commitment to their customers, and a passion for great food.

2. Burrito King Combines Tradition with Innovation

Burrito King takes pride in blending traditional Mexican fare with innovative customer service solutions. While the menu celebrates time-honored recipes, the operations have embraced modern technology to enhance the dining experience. Recently, the team implemented tablets to streamline their drive-through service. Employees now take orders and process payments directly in the drive-through line, allowing customers to pick up their meals quickly when they reach the window. They are also expanding the building and redeveloping the drive through this spring.

This technological advancement is just one example of how Burrito King adapts to meet the needs of its customers. By combining efficiency with their dedication to authentic flavors, the restaurant ensures that every visit is memorable for all the right reasons.

3. It’s A Haven for Satisfying Late-Night Cravings

Among Burrito King’s most notable features are its late-night and early-morning hours. Whether you’re wrapping up a long night or starting your day before the sun rises, Burrito King is there to satisfy your hunger. Their extensive menu includes hearty burritos, nachos, quesadillas, tamales, and hard- and soft-shell tacos, as well as vegetarian-friendly options–ensuring there’s something for everyone. They are also bringing in more Hispanic flavors like churros, more options in tamales, and french fries.

The restaurant’s outdoor seating adds to its charm, offering a relaxed environment where customers can enjoy their meals. Unlike many establishments, Burrito King doesn’t take reservations, making it a casual and accessible option for spur-of-the-moment dining.

4. It Has Overcome Challenges with Community Support

Running a restaurant isn’t without its challenges, and Burrito King has faced its fair share. When Angelina and Max first took over, one of their biggest hurdles was the flow of traffic in the drive-through. The line often extended into the street, causing congestion and delays. To address this, they reconfigured the traffic flow and introduced new systems to improve efficiency.

However, some challenges remain. “We don’t have a very long drive-through line,” Angelina said. “When we have many people coming at one time, we work as fast as we can to get everyone through the line efficiently.” At one point, they offered delivery services, but the added demand slowed down the drive-through. Ultimately, they decided to prioritize in-person customers, ensuring quicker service for those who made the trip.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought additional obstacles, but Burrito King’s drive-thru operation became a lifeline. While many restaurants struggled to stay open, Burrito King continued to serve the community, taking extra precautions to keep employees and customers safe. “It was a very challenging time for our employees,” Angelina said. “But we’re grateful for the support from the community.”

5. This Restaurant Has a Bright Future

Burrito King is always looking for ways to improve and grow. Last summer, the restaurant reintroduced daily specials, offering customers more delicious options at great prices. They also expanded their seating area with a new deck around the iconic tree out front. This addition provides more space for walk-up customers to relax and enjoy their meals.

For Angelina and Max, these updates are just the beginning. They’re deeply committed to their community, from supporting local sports teams to connecting with university students. Their advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Push for your dreams, stay focused, think positively, and always have a backup plan.”

A Heartfelt Thanks to the Community

Burrito King is dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Every meal is crafted with care, and every customer is treated like family.

Angelina and Max extend their gratitude to everyone who has supported them over the years. “We want to give a big shout-out to our community, KU, our sports teams, Rock Chalk, all the construction workers, our family and friends, and all the businesses in our area,” Angelina said. “Thank you for being a part of our journey.”

Burrito King isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a testament to hard work, innovation, and the power of community. If you haven’t visited yet, now’s the perfect time to experience everything this local gem has to offer.