Mexican Independence Day is on Monday, September 16, but all month long, all four of Mamacita’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina’s locations will celebrate this Mexican holiday with drink and food specials including their savory appetizers: guacamole and queso flameado.

Their Bay Area restaurant (515 E. NASA Road 1 in Webster) combines an elegant and traditional décor with a fiesta atmosphere. And their vast menu features authentic Mexican dishes and a Tex-Mex twist. Breakfast is served daily and lunch specials include a “build-your-own” option.

Early bird dinner specials are available until 6 p.m. Choose from several entrées such as the Mamacita Dinner (a crispy beef taco, beef chalupa, guacamole and two meat burritos), the NASA Dinner (chile con queso tostada, crispy beef taco, guacamole, tamale, and cheese enchilada), or the Space Shuttle Burrito (named in honor of the dedicated aerospace industry workers is filled with a choice of beef or chicken then topped with Spanish sauce and grated cheese, served with pico de gallo, lettuce and tomatoes).

Enjoy the “Fajitas for Two” dine-in-only special on Mondays and Tuesdays after 3 p.m.

Partake in Mamacita’s outstanding bar drinks and sip a cold “Refresher” daiquiri with mango, melon and strawberry liqueur, or the “Tamarindo ’Rita” is also sure to please. The extended happy hour is Mondays through Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s only $3.75 for house margaritas and $1.75 for domestic drafts.

Take note that musical entertainment is provided by the Messengers of Love on Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The hallmark of a successful restaurant, in an industry known for its volatility, is longevity.

Joe and Alma Gonzalez opened their first restaurant, El Jardin on Harrisburg (East Houston) in 1975. The enthusiasm of the young couple made for a welcoming environment and the use of their family recipes created a flavorful and unique menu. On top of that, the food quality, freshness, and consistency in the platters made the restaurant remarkable, and it wasn’t long before the Mamacita’s brand opened in the Bay Area.

For the past 38 years, the Gonzalez family has worked hard to preserve the Mamacita’s legacy and share the traditions and day-to-day operations with their son and General Operations Manager Joe Gonzalez III and daughter Gina Kuper who oversees public relations. Of course, the term “familia” – or family – is extended to the employees. In fact, most of the employees have been with Mamacita’s since its foundation.

“Those who stop into Mamacita’s feel welcomed and at home because each meal is prepared to order from the freshest ingredients,” said Kuper. “We are in a constant pursuit for excellence in food and customer service.”

Mamacita’s has been recognized by several leading newspapers including the New York Times. They have won several tasting awards and are very active in community participation. The restaurant also has various options of spaces to host business and family gatherings. Book an event and ask about the “Fajita Fiesta” catering packages.

Mamacita’s is open seven days a week. Visit www.MamacitasMexicanRestaurant.com to view their hours and specials.

Stop by Mamacita’s today and rediscover flavor.

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- Rhonda Meredith