Maria's Family Restaurant

by Michele Boy | January 25, 2024

Local people, local atmosphere, local family establishment. Owners Mario Moreno and Maria Leyva want the message out that Maria's Family Restaurant is open for business and ready to serve the community of Syracuse.
Mario is the Safety Supervisor at Fullmer Cattle Company. For the last twelve years, he and Maria have poured out their energy into making Syracuse and Holly their home. 
While they live in Holly, their employees are Syracusans. They employ two Syracuse High School waitresses as well. 
Mario said, "We are open for business. We want to encourage anyone looking for a venue to have a business meeting, a party, try us out. We have new hours and we are open for supper."
Maria owned Happy Taco in Holly, Colorado until recently. In December 2023 Mario and Maria decided to purchase Vicky's Kitchen in Syracuse.
Maria’s Family Restaurant has updated the menu and the hours. 
They want to welcome parties between 20 and 80 people. They need one day's notice for parties up to 20 people, and one week's notice for larger parties. 
"It's about family. We don't serve alcohol or allow smoking. We hire local people and have added Honduran food in addition to the great food already served."
One example of a newer menu item is Pollo con tajadas chicken with plantains
Mario believes in customer service. He worked at a restaurant when he was younger. Mario has done everything from slicing meat to bussing tables. In addition, they have catered for 250 people making 700 tacos and pico de gallo. 
"We can cook ahead of time and be a lot faster. We don't want to have people waiting," said Mario.
He is working with his employees on how to offer the best customer service possible. "We will make sure we have enough waitresses. Let us quote you a price on your next event."
Mario added, "We are excited about this new venture. In addition to those established customers, we are getting more people coming in. We held a quincinera, have church groups, and families. We want people to feel comfortable here to enjoy their meal."
They have visions for the future including waffles and a breakfast bar. The breakfast bar will include ham, sausages, eggs, hash browns, and more. 
Maria's Family Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, 7 AM - 7 PM and Sunday 10 AM - 6 PM. You can order food for pickup by calling 620-384-3100. 

Pictured L to R - Brenda Hernandez and Maria Leyva/photo by Michele Boy