Alvarez

Before the chips and salsa…The Alvarez family first began immigrating to the United States from Mexico City in the 1970's. In 1978, family members began to settle in northern Illinois.The Alvarez family was looking for their piece of the American Dream.From the start, the members of the family quickly began to work in food service. At this point, the Alvarez family was working in all cuisines and earned their chops in fast food to fine food. Far from the traditional Mexican cooking of their homeland, the family also learned of others such as French and Italian cuisine.But rather than settling on just jobs, they also learned about the food industry.By 1990, the family had experience in all aspects of the food service business and ventured out on their own to open the first Alvarez Restaurant in Marengo. Over the next several years, more locations followed. With everyone experienced in food service – some in the kitchen and some in the dining room – everyone was able to do their part to grow the family business.Now, traditional Mexican recipes, right from mother Margarita's kitchen, are served to customers throughout the Rockford area. Only food and recipes good enough for the family are good enough for Alvarez customers. The family now also owns and operates Leonardi's on East State.The Alvarez family takes pride in its restaurants and still works together to better your dining experience.Thank you for your support and patronage.