TEXARKANA MONTHLY
BY TERRI GRAVITT PHOTOS BY MOLLY KENDRICK LOVE WORKS
W ith most couples, “to have and to hold” does not include a daily serving of queso and chips, delicious green salsa or shrimp rancheros. However, power couple and Amigo Juan owners, Maria and Sergio Rodriguez, have been cooking and serving up these popular menu
business with Maria’s family. Maria’s brother opened the family’s first restaurant location in Hope, Arkansas. After seeing his success, Sergio decided to try his hand at opening his own location in Texarkana. While searching for a location, they had to make a choice from a business and personal perspective regarding the right place for them to raise
them to miss each other just enough to be delighted to come together once again at the end of the workday. Sergio and Maria’s story is different. “We do not know any different,” they said. “We enjoy being able to help each other and we have learned to take advantage of the strengths the other offers. We love what we do. We want to
items for the past 18 years, while also finding a way to keep their love alive. A power couple could be defined as two equal partners who complement each other and whose relationship is based on mutual respect and appreciation—more about collaboration and less about competition. In the words of an unknown source, “Be a boss. Date a boss. Build an empire.” This is exactly what the Rodriguezs have done! Sergio and Maria were both born and raised in Chihuahua, Mexico. Sergio was 16-years-
offer the best experience and food for everyone when people come in.” “I admire how Sergio can bring the best out of the staff and is able to organize and plan for the work ahead,” shared Maria. Sergio has an equally deep appreciation for his wife. “Maria is always there to help me. She is very positive and loves to work and talk to everyone.” The environment they have created, of both mutual respect and a desire to serve Texarkana to the best of their ability, trickles down to their staff and is felt
old and Maria was 15-years-old when they met at a mutual friend’s quinceañera. Proving all those wrong who say you cannot meet and fall in love with the person you are going to marry at age 15, they made it official by marrying and starting their life together in 1994. When they moved to the United States, the couple began working in the restaurant
their family. They visited Texarkana and based on its “perfect size,” felt it would be ideal. Their dreams became a reality when the doors opened at Amigo Juan Texarkana in 2003. They went to work determined and did it together! Despite the love shared between spouses, most couples have an eight-hour daily break from one another, which allows
in the overall atmosphere experienced while dining at Amigo Juan. There is a real “mom and pop” atmosphere felt as soon as you walk in the door. Everything about it shouts “welcome,” starting with the hostess who greets you, the bright, bold colors and charming décor that pull you in and the friendly service you receive from the servers. It has become a Texarkana favorite
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BUSINESS & POLITICS
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