In January, Dos Coyotes Border Café celebrates 35 years of flavor and community in Northern California. With two locations in Folsom, this milestone is special for local diners who have cherished the restaurant for years.
Bobby Coyote founded Dos Coyotes in 1991, starting from small beginnings and growing into a beloved brand with multiple Sacramento-area locations. His love for authentic Mexican food blossomed in West Los Angeles, where he started experimenting with delicious dishes as a child. Although he took many paths in his career—like working as a laser light technician for the band WAR—his passion for food always called him back.
A trip to Santa Fe was a game changer. Surrounded by vibrant culture and innovative flavors, Coyote found inspiration for what would become Dos Coyotes. He envisioned a “people’s restaurant”—a place where families and students could enjoy affordable, high-quality meals.
The first location opened in Davis, almost facing disaster when construction issues arose. Yet, determined and resourceful, Coyote took matters into his own hands. That first day, eager customers turned what was meant to be a training day into a grand opening.
The menu began with simple, flavorful choices like tacos and burritos, made from fresh, local ingredients. Dos Coyotes was a pioneer of the farm-to-fork movement well before it became a trend, partnering with local farmers for fresh supplies. Their partnership with Mi Rancho, the original tortilla supplier, has flourished over the years, delivering thousands of tortillas each week.
To commemorate 35 years, Dos Coyotes is hosting a fundraiser on January 5. Guests can enjoy the iconic Border Chicken Burrito for just $5, the original price from 1991. To participate, diners are encouraged to donate at least $2, with all proceeds going to the Twin Lakes Food Bank to support local families in need. This effort reflects the restaurant’s ongoing commitment to community engagement.
With rising demand for food assistance at Twin Lakes, local partnerships like this are essential. Over the years, Dos Coyotes has also supported various initiatives such as farm-to-school programs and literacy projects, showing that its mission goes beyond just serving food.
As Dos Coyotes looks to the future, it aims to blend culinary creativity with community roots, making sure Folsom residents continue to feel a part of its journey. The anniversary celebration is not just a look back but also a way to give back, emphasizing the importance of community in a time when many are facing challenges.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, head over to Dos Coyotes this January to enjoy delicious food and support a worthy cause.
