Armando “Mando” Cruz was born and raised in Oaxaca, Mexico. Under the guidance of his mother, Maria, he became an adept household chef. In 1995, Mando emmigrated to California and arrived in Monterey County.

Living in California, he missed the flavors and cuisine of his mother’s delicious home cooking of Oaxaca. He solved this yearning for home cooked Mexican cuisine by first graduating from Monterey Penninsula College (specializing in Hospitality and Business) and then by opening a restaurant.

Mando has been a restaurateur since 1998 and has opened 4 restaurants in Salinas, Pacific Grove and Monterey. Mando’s specializes in the popular cuisines of Mexico and America with special emphasis on specialies of his native Oaxaca “a la Maria”.

Welcome to Mando’s new location in “New Monterey”, adjacent to the Cannery Row District.

The Chef? Armando himself!

Opening Hours