Andrés Cárdenas Guitrón was born in Cuautla, Jalisco, Mexico in 1935.
From childhood, he stood out for his abilities in agriculture and ranching. He enjoys business and through his talent, dedication, and vision, he has achieved what he now shares. That is how Andres grew up; always sharing with his parents, Francisco Cárdenas and Eduarda Guitrón, from whom he learned the foundation which constantly sustains him: discipline, dedication, honesty, charity and character.Entrepreneur.
He emigrated to the United States in 1968 directly to the city of Los Angeles, California. He started out as a dishwasher, then moved up to food preparer, later becoming a cook’s assistant, until he finally became chef.
He moved from California to Washington State in 1970 continuing in the restaurant business. Through his vision and tenacity, he opened his first restaurant in the city of Auburn in 1975. To the present date, he has built 16 Mazatlán Restaurants located in Puyallup, Tacoma, Bonney Lake, Auburn, Aberdeen, Parkland, Kenmore, Enumclaw, Renton and Woodinvile, all in the state of Washington. On average he employs more than 216 families at his various restaurants in Washington State. In addition, he has been an inspiration to other entrepreneurs in opening their own restaurants in Oregon, Montana, Colorado, and Idaho, sharing his knowledge and recipes. In Mexico he employs more than 50 families in construction, restaurant, agriculture and ranching industries.
Social Activist.
He donated land for the construction of the ”Casa Día” a community center in Cuautla for the elderly. He donated land for the construction of a Rodeo Ring in Cuautla. Through the Club Jalisco of Washington, he has promoted and helped acquire investments and donations for the paving of various streets in Cuautla, refurbishment of the town square, gardens and the church. These funds also provide support for underprivileged families. He is responsible for the organization of the annual “Fiesta Mexicana Spring Fair” in Puyallup, Washington. The proceeds from food concessions are donated to support and rebuild the neediest communities in the state of Jalisco.
Don Andrés is both an example and a legend in Cuautla. He is a companion for his wife, Doña Teresa de Cárdenas, and a teacher for his children Rafaela, Andrés Eduardo, Christina and Francisco. A great lover of horses, country life, and cooking, his Mexican dream has become reality in the United States and he’s not done yet. He will continue as long as life gives him the opportunity to continue serving with his hallmark quality, a wonderful sense of humor.
By Lupita Zamora.