Cactus Flower

In 1999 after several years of owning a neighborhood
video store,  I found myself in need of a career change. Big box video stores were taking over the country and I knew it was only a matter of time before I would be forced to close.

Everyone told me I was crazy but I knew that the only thing I loved to do  passionately..that made people happy…  was cook Mexican food … the Mexican food I had  grown up on in California.. the Mexican food that my Aunt Carmen, the best  family cook and the Aunt who loved me dearly,  had taught me how to make…  with love and patience and her great flair, she taught me how to use cilantro, lime, fresh peppers , dried peppers , onions and tomatoes, spices like cumin and garlic, and oregano..rich, creamy cheeses and roast fine cuts of meat (only chicken breast, pork tenderloin, blue crab, mahi-mahi, angus beef) to make traditional dishes that people loved. Traditional Mexican food  items that were fresh, clean and delicious! Along the way I created some items of my own,  items she loved, like our Mango Shrimp. Her photo adorns our main dining room.

 In Mexican culture there is no greater show of love than cooking a meal from scratch for someone. To this day when I go see my last living aunt, my Aunt Juana, she insists on cooking for me, that’s love! Now in her 80s, she is still one great cook!

In 2003, Joni Derome became my partner and came on board , bringing decades of restaurant experience with her..Joni helped Cactus Flower Cafe to grow into a multi location restaurant. We hope you will enjoy our style of Mexican food! We are not Tex Mex.. nor are we authentic. We are a fusion of traditional Mexican items, made with love, in a healthier way. No lard, no added animal fats, all from scratch everyday. Even our cocktails are made with fresh items, no mixes ever, it may take a bit longer but its worth the wait. We believe Fresh is always Best! Buen provecho!