Area residents will now have another option in getting their fix for Mexican food. Los Mogotes de Michoacan is scheduled to open Friday, January 11 next to the former Piggy Wiggly grocery store at Atkinson and Center Streets.

The restaurant will feature authentic Mexican cuisine including favorites like burritos, spicy pork, enchiladas and so much more.

"We are excited to be here, and a bit nervous too," admits owners Salvador and AnaMaria Sepulueda.

The pair have been working since October to renovate the space at 821 Center Street. Salvador did the work almost entirely himself, raising and moving counters, walls, flooring, paint, decor and installing the kitchen.

He is also the head chef, bringing family favorite recipes from Michoacan, Mexico where he grew up. "This is true Mexican food," he said. "It's not Americanized Mexican food, but truly authentic."

Growing Up in the United States

Salvador came to the United States when he was 16 years old. He learned about the restaurant industry while working at his first job -the McDonalds in the Albany Park neighborhood in Chicago. There he worked for six years before meeting his wife. He later went to work for AnaMaria's brother at Tacos El Norte in Highwood.

In 1997 the pair, who live in Wadsworth with their three children ages 21, 20 and 16, opened their first restaurant in Chicago, which they ran for ten years. In 2003 they opened Taqueria Los Mogotes de Michoacan in Highland Park which AnaMaria will now oversee as the Grayslake location gets going.

When asked why they chose Grayslake for their next adventure Salvador said, "I just had a good feeling."

Los Mogotes de Michoacan will host a Grand Opening Friday, January 11 with free samples and appetizers from 4-6 p.m. They will remain open until 9 p.m.

The restaurant will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. thereafter.

Call (847) 231-6512.