One of Houston’s longstanding Tex-Mex chains is celebrating a major milestone. Molina’s Cantina will complete 85 years in business on June 12. Founded in 1941 by Raul and Mary Molina, the concept began as the Old Monterrey Cafe.
Molina’s Cantina Marks 85 Years in Business
Molina’s Cantina completes 85 years in business and to mark the milestone, the longtime Houston favorite will host events at its Bellaire, Westheimer, and Fulshear locations from June 11 to 13.
Special summer promotions also accompany the celebrations throughout June and July. The brand will pay tribute to the generations of family members, employees, customers, and signature dishes that have contributed to the restaurant’s enduring legacy.
Molina’s opened at a time when Mexican restaurants were still rare in Houston. More than 80 years later, it remains family-owned and is now led by the founders’ grandsons-Raul Molina III, Ricardo Molina, and Roberto Molina
Molina’s Cantina now offers both breakfast and lunch every day at each of its three restaurant locations in Houston. The restaurant also serves dine-in and has weekday happy hour specials. Guests can also get catering services, private event spaces, and curbside pick-up, take-out, and online ordering for delivery.
Anniversary Celebrations With Houstonians
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Along with the milestone, Molina’s Cantina will celebrate the loyalty and patronage of its longtime customers. The brand will host a variety of events and special offers over the coming months of June and July.
June 11-13: Anniversary Fiestas
- June 11 at Bellaire
- June 12 at the Westheimer restaurant
- June 13 at the Fulshear location
Festive decorations will be set up at each decoration. Guests can enjoy an all-day happy hour special, a mariachi band from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., a photo backdrop, a cake, staff recognitions, and prize giveaways.
June 1-July 31: Once-a-Week Anniversary Deals
- The restaurant will offer a different one-day promotion each week.
- Some specials can feature throw-back menu pricing, buy one get one deals, and other limited-time deals.
- Molina’s Cantina will share surprise deals through social media handles.
July 1: Molina’s Cantina Day
- The day, officially designated by former Houston Mayor Annise Parker, will be celebrated at all locations.
- All Molina’s locations will offer a $38.95 fajita special for two.
- Happy hour pricing on drinks all day.
The Journey of a Longtime Staple
Originally a small family-run restaurant, Molina’s Cantina has expanded into one of Houston’s oldest and most popular Tex-Mex spots. Over the years, the restaurant has become a part of their family customs.
Longtime employees have also played a role in the restaurant’s success. For decades, many servers, bartenders, and kitchen employees have been working at Molina’s. They have helped to establish a sense of familiarity among its guests.
While celebrating its 85th anniversary in business, Molina’s continues to blend tradition with change. There are still lots of old favorites, but the restaurant has added new items and expanded its happy hour program to match the tastes of the modern diners.
Reflecting on the milestone, Ricardo Molina said, “Our grandparents started with a small restaurant and a lot of hard work, and somehow that grew into a place where generations of Houstonians have celebrated birthdays, first dates, family dinners, and ordinary Tuesday nights. That means a lot to us. We know Molina’s doesn’t belong only to our family. It belongs to the staff who have given so much of themselves here, and to the guests who have made us part of their lives.”
Menu Highlights at Molina’s Cantina
Molina’s loyal customers have been coming to the restaurant for generations. As the restaurant has remained a Houston dining staple for decades, its Tex-Mex menu has become a defining part of the city’s food culture.
Old Fashioned Chili con Carne, Enchiladas de Tejas, the Mexico City Dinner, and handmade tamales are a few of the favorites that are still available today. The C.W. Special, Berly’s Burrito, and Nancy Ames’ Special Nachos are other popular menu items.
Jose’s dip, margaritas, fajitas, and friendly service at the restaurant are also reasons for return visits.
Throughout the years, the Molina’s have had many distinguished guests, such as former President George H.W. Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush. The restaurant has also received recent recognition for its lasting impact. It earned the Texas Treasure Business Award in 2025 and Preservation Houston’s Family Legacy Award in 2026.
