In the continuation of our exploration into the oldest legacy restaurants in town, last week’s issue delved into Part 1, focusing on two iconic Italian eateries: Luigi’s and Roman Villa. This week, we shift our attention to two more enduring establishments, one German and one Mexican, each with a rich history and a unique charm. Let’s dive in and discover what makes them beloved staples in our community.
Señor Manuel
Located at 4660 N. Nevada Ave., Señor Manuel has been serving classic Mexican cuisine since August 1970 when it was founded by Manuel and Lucy Hernandez. Fast forward 52 years, and the restaurant is still going strong under the fourth-generation ownership of the Hernandez family. During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting co-owner Mika Hernandez, who has been actively involved in the family business since childhood.
The restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, with bustling lunchtime crowds and the aroma of freshly made tortillas filling the air. One standout feature of Señor Manuel is their commitment to tradition – they still handcraft all their chips, tortillas, and tamale masa, ensuring a truly authentic dining experience.
I opted for the #8 beef and bean burrito with Chile Mondongo sauce, a house specialty featuring tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and jalapeños. Served with Spanish rice and refried beans, the dish was a flavorful delight, with each bite bursting with layers of rich and savory goodness.
Despite the challenges posed by short staffing, Señor Manuel continues to deliver exceptional food and service, a testament to their dedication to quality and consistency over the years.
Edelweiss
Nestled at 34 E. Ramona Ave., Edelweiss is a cherished German staple that has been delighting diners since 1967. Run by the same family for over five decades, the restaurant exudes a cozy and festive atmosphere, especially during the holiday season.
During my visit, I had the pleasure of sampling their Maultaschen dish, a traditional German delicacy from the Swabian region. Featuring pasta pockets stuffed with minced pork, salami, and vegetables, topped with Swiss cheese and curry ketchup, the dish was a comforting and hearty delight.
Pastry Chef Pierre Osborne’s hazelnut torte was the perfect finale to my meal, with layers of vanilla-almond sponge cake and hazelnut buttercream, adorned with raspberry jam and chocolate drizzle.
Chatting with co-owner Dieter Schnakenberg, I gained insight into the restaurant’s enduring legacy and the family’s dedication to preserving its traditions. Despite the challenges of running a large-scale operation, Schnakenberg’s passion for Edelweiss shines through, ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy this beloved German gem.
In conclusion, both Señor Manuel and Edelweiss exemplify the timeless appeal of legacy restaurants, where passion, tradition, and community converge to create unforgettable dining experiences. Cheers to these historic haunts!