Morgan Hill residents who’ve been loyal fans of the Pre-Hispanic MX Cuisine food truck now have a permanent place to enjoy their favorite dishes and more. Last fall, the beloved truck made the leap to a brick-and-mortar restaurant, settling into the heart of downtown at 30 East Third St.
The story behind the business is one of friendship forged in a kitchen. Chef Jesus Varguez and front-of-house manager Cenobio Albarran Mendoza first crossed paths nearly two decades ago while working together at a restaurant on Santana Row in San Jose. That shared experience built a strong bond that grew into a lasting partnership, and eventually, a business.
Their food truck had been a familiar presence in Morgan Hill for several years before the restaurant opened.
Varguez and Mendoza joined the Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce two years ago and served their food for two consecutive summers at the Chamber’s popular Friday Night Music Series. The warm welcome they received made the decision to plant their flag in Morgan Hill an easy one.
“For the last three years the truck has been coming to Morgan Hill a lot, and the people of Morgan Hill were very supportive of us,” said Mendoza. “That is why we chose this town to open our business.”
What sets Pre-Hispanic MX Cuisine apart is both its philosophy and its menu. This is not your typical taqueria. The menu is freshly prepared with a focus on modern, superfood ingredients, bringing new flavors to Mexican favorites.
Diners describe it as a culinary journey back to the roots of Mexican gastronomy, featuring dishes cherished by indigenous peoples long before European influence. The menu includes Cochinita Pibil, a slow-braised Yucatan pork, alongside standout items like fresh salsa prepared tableside, handmade tortillas and unique tacos featuring octopus and chorizo.
The latest addition to the menu is an egg-less Chili Relleno (aka Chile Reyanos). It is jam packed with flavor and the protein of your choice.
“I am looking forward to sharing unique Mexican flavors with the community,” Varguez said.
The restaurant takes advantage of its outdoor seating with both a bar—where local Barkeep Lucy Merrill serves delightful drinks (and food)—and garden areas with table service. Delivery is available through DoorDash for those who prefer to enjoy their food at home.
For Mendoza and Varguez, opening a restaurant has always been about more than serving great food.
“We’re happy to be in Morgan Hill, want to be a part of the community and want the community to be a part of us,” said Mendoza.
Hours are Monday through Friday, 11am-9pm. On weekends, brunch is added to the menu and the restaurant opens at 9am, closing at 9pm Saturday and 8pm Sunday. Call 408.612.4048 for more information, or follow them on Instagram at @prehispanicmxcuisine.
Cheri Brown is a local insurance agent who serves on the Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. She recommends the Chile Reyanos, the shrimp tacos, house made tortillas and her beau recommends the octopus chorizo tacos. She can be reached at Me***********@***il.com.
