El Merendero

The inspiration

The couple had already run one restaurant in Los Angeles before opening El Merendero in La Verne on April 5, 1975¹ .

Who's behind it

Willie Lopez, originally from Tepanco de Lopez in Puebla, founded the restaurant with Petra Lopez, who had cooked professionally in Puebla before moving to California^1,2 . As owner she works across the kitchen, register and floor, keeping the family legacy running² .

What to order

• Shrimp cocktail: Victoria Lopez's own pick, alongside her chicken enchilada with green sauce .²
• Breakfast: hot cakes and eggs anchor the early menu at a place that opens before sunrise .

Why you should try it

This is a genuine La Verne institution, family-run since 1975 with recipes rooted in Puebla^1,2 . If you're staying near Fairplex, it's the local Mexican meal within easy reach .