This article was written by Noor Haghighi and first appeared on Arizona Sonoran News.
For Eleazar Beltran, running Paco’s Mexican Food is more about the people than competition. “You have to focus on your customers and what they want,” he believes.
Beltran’s journey in the food world began at age 11, helping out in his family kitchen. Today, he owns and operates Paco’s, located at 5563 E. Grant Rd. The restaurant opened its doors in 1995 on Speedway Boulevard and moved to Grant Road in 2001.
A pivotal moment came early on when a local newspaper featured Paco’s, drawing in crowds. Nearly thirty years later, it earned recognition in The New York Times, highlighted as a top spot for breakfast burritos in a Tucson travel itinerary.
Originally from Chicago and having lived in San Diego, Beltran moved to Tucson for business. His love for food, shared by his family, drives him. “I spend my time here every day. It’s my home, it’s my life,” he says.
When you first approach Paco’s, its simple, brick exterior invites you in. Inside, the dining area is adorned with colorful decor, dried chiles, and plants, creating a cozy atmosphere. Although small, the long drive-thru line hints that something special is cooking inside.
“The lines tell you everything: that they’re happy with what we provide,” Beltran commented. Even after all these years, he remains passionate about the food. He adapts recipes based on customer preferences, like adding potatoes to breakfast burritos, which has become a local favorite.
Beltran has made personal sacrifices for the restaurant, missing family events to be present at Paco’s. Yet he finds joy in serving his customers. Adan Baca, a University of Arizona student, regularly orders a bean and cheese burrito and praises the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere. “I just love the vibe — it’s so Mexican,” he says.
Many love the food here. The carne asada quesadilla is a crowd-pleaser, loaded with melted cheese and perfectly cooked meat. The shredded beef burrito, paired with fresh tomatoes and green peppers, offers a delightful crunch. Simply put, it’s “happy food” that brings comfort and satisfaction.
During the Covid lockdown, Beltran felt the absence of joyful chatter, as he only saw customers through the drive-thru. He took that time to renovate the restaurant, opting for a brighter look to lift spirits.
Despite the updates, the menu prices have remained budget-friendly, with the most expensive item being a $12 carne asada or carnitas platter. Fresh ingredients are key, as most arrive on the day they’re served. However, managing a large menu can be a challenge for a small space.
Beltran recalls a lesson learned when he removed a popular chicken burrito from the menu due to storage issues — a move he hasn’t repeated since. “Once people get attached to something, we don’t take it away,” he said. This allows every customer to find their favorites every time they visit.
Paco’s Mexican Food is a beloved local gem, offering simple yet delicious meals in an inviting space. Whether it’s breakfast burritos or other classic dishes, each plate reflects Beltran’s dedication to his craft and his community.
Paco’s Mexican Food is located at 5563 E. Grant Rd. For more details, you can visit pacosmexicanfood.com.
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