In a city where restaurant trends rise and fade quickly, Pepe’s & Mito’s Mexican Café has remained a beloved institution, known for its authenticity, heart, and unmistakable Mex-Tex flair. As the Deep Ellum favorite celebrates its 30th anniversary, it marks not just a milestone in years—but in memories, community, and flavor.
The journey began in 1994, when Pedro “Pepe” Rojas opened the café at just 16 years old, with his wife Sandra and their young son by his side. Despite early doubts from friends and family about the risks of starting a restaurant, the Rojas family forged ahead. What started as a humble eatery quickly grew into a cornerstone of the neighborhood, known for its warm welcome and rich, flavorful food.
The restaurant’s name, “Pepe & Mito’s,” honors both Pedro and his father, Arturo “Mito” Rojas, symbolizing the multi-generational commitment to cooking and community. Today, the entire Rojas family is still deeply involved, including Pedro’s children, Alex and Lauren. The café itself feels like an extension of their home—walls adorned with family photos, kids’ drawings, and colorful murals of San Miguel de Allende and Playa del Carmen.
Pepe’s & Mito’s specializes in what they proudly call “Mex-Tex” cuisine: traditional Mexican dishes with a touch of Texas soul. Favorites include the bold and smoky Tacos Norteños with skirt steak in chipotle wine sauce, comforting bowls of albóndiga soup, and house-made tamales from a cherished family recipe. Every dish is made with care, using fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques.
Over the decades, the café has become more than a restaurant—it’s a gathering place. Locals, tourists, and longtime fans all find their way back for the hospitality as much as the food. The Rojas family has navigated numerous challenges, including economic downturns and the pandemic, by staying true to their values: quality, kindness, and resilience.
As they celebrate 30 years of service, the Rojas family is looking forward to the future with the same heart and passion that built Pepe’s & Mito’s in the first place. Their goal remains unchanged: to serve delicious, authentic Mexican food and make every guest feel like family.
