Nestled at 602 N Mount Vernon Ave in San Bernardino, California, Mitla Café isn't just a restaurant; it's a living slice of history. Since 1937, this family-run gem has been dishing out authentic Mexican cuisine, becoming a beloved institution in the community. Founded by the indomitable Doña Lucia Rodriguez during the Great Depression, Mitla Café was her answer to ensuring that no family member went hungry. Her legacy of warmth and generosity still flavors every dish served today. ​Walking into Mitla feels like stepping into a time capsule. The old lunch counter, walls adorned with decades of photos, and the comforting aroma of freshly made tortillas transport you back to a bygone era. It's a place where stories are shared over plates of tacos dorados, enchiladas, and the famed chile rellenos. Speaking of tacos, did you know that Mitla's hard-shell tacos inspired Glen Bell to create Taco Bell? Yep, he was so taken by Doña Lucia's recipe that he started his taco empire. ​

But Mitla is more than just its menu. It's been a hub for community activism, playing a pivotal role in desegregating San Bernardino's public pools in the 1940s. The café hosted meetings that led to the landmark Lopez v. Seccombe case, setting the stage for future civil rights victories. ​The heart of Mitla's culinary magic lies in its tortillas. For four generations, women have meticulously crafted these doughy delights by hand, a tradition that continues today. Arriving at dawn, they roll out each tortilla with care, ensuring that every bite carries the essence of home-cooked goodness. ​

Today, Mitla Café continues to be family-owned, with Doña Lucia's descendants preserving her legacy of hospitality and community engagement. The café not only offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine but also serves as a living museum, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of San Bernardino's West Side. San Bernardino's West Side, where Mitla Café is situated, has a storied past. Once a bustling stop along the historic Route 66, the area was home to various businesses that catered to travelers and locals alike. While some establishments have faded over time, Mitla Café remains a steadfast presence, embodying the resilience and spirit of the community. ​

Nearby attractions include the Wigwam Motel, a unique lodging experience featuring teepee-shaped rooms that hark back to the golden age of road travel. Additionally, the unofficial McDonald's Museum stands as a testament to the city's role in fast-food history, located at the site of the original McDonald's restaurant opened by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1948. Today, Mitla Café continues to be family-owned, with Doña Lucia's descendants preserving her legacy of hospitality and community engagement. The café not only offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine but also serves as a living museum, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of San Bernardino's West Side.

So, if you're cruising down Route 66 or simply seeking a meal that feeds both the stomach and the soul, make your way to Mitla Café. Experience the warmth of a family legacy, savor the dishes that have stood the test of time, and become part of a story that's been unfolding for over eight decades.​ And hey, if you're planning a trip to San Bernardino, why not make it a smooth ride? Book a car with One in a Mil Rental Company. Visit https://maps.app.goo.gl/tUVBvAjHfuvjPXcM7 to secure your rental today, or give us a call at +1 209-713-5599. Let's get you on the road to your next adventure.