Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

When patrons dine at Frida’s Mexican Cuisine & Pancake House, they don’t leave hungry.

The Culver restaurant offers generous portions and outstanding service, and owners Maricruz and Julio Ledezma ensure that every customer is happy before they leave. They say it has been that way since they started on June 24.

Opening Frida’s was a long-time goal for the Ledesma’s.

“Like almost every story, our story first felt like a dream,” Maricruz says. “Now I can say, ‘dreams really do come true.’ We always wondered how things were going to be once it all started coming together.”

They wanted a place that was special and served a wide range of different menu items.

“Frida’s is not only a restaurant that serves Mexican cuisine, but also a pancake house,” Maricruz says. “We serve breakfast all day, as well as fresh margaritas. Having a variety of food and drink options is what our customers like.”

The local community has responded very positively to the restaurant.

“Since day one, the community has given us a huge, warm welcome,” Maricruz says. “Many have said that they are thankful we decided to open up here in Culver. They want us to stay, and we want to stay, which is why we work hard for the community. We have become a part of this magical town.”

Loyal customers already have their favorites.

“One of our popular dishes is the Carnitas dinner,” Maricruz says. “That is a traditional plate from Michoacán, Mexico. The technique to cook them so deliciously is a secret. The Farmer’s Burger is another popular dish. We stack the beef patty with a fried egg, cheese, and onion rings. Our crepes with Nutella are a must-try! They’re very popular with the academy students.”

Maricruz has her own personal favorite.

“Al Pastor tacos are great too! I love the flavor of the meat, especially with cilantro, onion, and lime. Of course, everything must be washed down with some refreshing horchata.”

Horchata is a refreshing Mexican drink made with rice, milk, vanilla and cinnamon.

Community Involvement

The Ledesma’s like to stay involved with a lot of people in Culver.

“We feel so lucky to be a part of the community,” Maricruz says. “We have been invited to participate in a few activities, like The Wine Fair and The Lake Max Half Marathon. And in the future, we will be working with The Culver Boys & Girls Club, like having a tip night to support the program.”

Maricruz added that many customers have commented on Frida’s décor.

“Our customers also seem to enjoy our decorations around the restaurant, as well as the artwork,” she says. “Many of the decorations are even handmade from my family in Mexico. What really catches the attention of people, are the paintings on the walls my daughter created.”

Maricruz has already seen a lot of repeat business, thanks to the tasty food.

“I always say our chef, Otniel Obed Ruiz, cooks with love,” she says. “He is very focused and passionate about his food work. He brings flavor from Oaxaca, Mexico. A lot of our customers love his secret salsa, some of them come in only to take it to go.”

Frida’s Mexican Cuisine & Pancake House is located at 18571 State Rd 10 in Culver. For more information, such as its hours of operation, give them a call at 574-842-2414.