Jose Guitron has expanded his restaurant offerings after he opened Los Primos Taqueria Bar and Grill in Battle Ground on March 17.
The Mexican restaurant is one of three that Guitron owns. The others include Country Cafe in Ridgefield and La Casa Tapatia in Woodland.
Guitron said the turnout for Los Primos’ first weekend of business was good. He decided to open the restaurant since he lives in Battle Ground.
“I live here in town, and I would drive by the property, and I thought it would be a great idea to open a taqueria in town,” said Guitron through a translator. “I wanted the community to enjoy the goodness and for people to get authentic Mexican food.”
The property that now houses Los Primos Taqueria used to be the home of Rancho Viejo Bar & Grill, which belonged to Guitron’s uncle. Guitron took over the business and transformed it into Los Primos Taqueria with minimal renovations.
Guitron said it can be a challenge to own multiple businesses since the restaurant industry has been impacted by a lack of employees.
“The community supports me so much and they do understand we’re short-staffed, but I always do the best (I can) to make people happy,” Guitron said.
Los Primos Taqueria offers a fresh margarita, which is called the Carlos Primos. It is made with fresh lime and lemon, and was a high-demand item during their opening weekend.
Guitron said the taqueria offers things that other Mexican restaurants don’t, like their quesabirria. He said the restaurant uses all fresh ingredients in their dishes.
The COVID-19 pandemic slowed down business, Guitron said, but he was able to stay afloat thanks to his employees and the support of the community.
“Everybody has been there for me, and although my employees didn’t always get many hours, they were there for me,” he said.
Although Guitron loves everything on the menu, he said his favorites are the quesabirria, shrimp tacos, and carne asada. The shrimp tacos feature fresh, quality shrimp, as well as a homemade sauce that goes with it.
Besy Aguilar, Los Primos’ manager, has enjoyed her role so far. It’s the first time she’s held a managerial position.
“I know it’s a lot of responsibility, but I think it’s going to be a new chapter in my life,” said Aguilar. “I do like being in charge, and I like everything clean and keeping an eye on everything. That’s why (Guitron) chose for me to be manager here.”
After the restaurant’s grand opening on March 17, Aguilar said some of their customers returned for a second time over that weekend.
Aguilar said her favorite items are the quesabirria and carne asada.
Guitron is also the building owner of the Oak Tree Restaurant in Woodland, which will open in April. An exact date will be announced at a later time.
Los Primos Taqueria is located at 705 SE First St., Battle Ground. They are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays, and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
The business’ Facebook page can be found online at facebook.com/Los-Primos-Taqueria-Bar-Grill-101269029173544/.
