Restaurant takes old depot

By DAVID TELLER

Staff Reporter

Once again, there is an authentic Mexican food restaurant in Cheney. The business opened Oct. 18.

At only 19 years old, Jorge Anaya is the manger of the Moses Lake-based El Rodeo. His father, Jorge Sr., has owned and operated the family run business for five years. The younger Anaya, (Ah-NYE-uh) has worked for his father his whole life. The elder Anaya shares ownership with his brother, Luis. A nephew, Ruben, is also part of the ownership.

The family emigrated to the U.S. 10 years ago from Los Volcanes Mexico.

Though they have earned residency, they still return a couple of times a year to see familia.

The Anayas were fortunate to find the location. They knew the previous occupants so they bought it before it went on the real estate market.

Because the last business was a Mexican food restaurant, the ambience needed little work. Murals of peasant Mexican farmers and desert scenes adorn the walls. El Rodeo also has a lounge featuring Loca, Mojito, Long-Island iced tea and Don Julio brand tequila.

Anaya said the secret to the restaurant's success lies in the selection of food and seasonings used in the entrees.

“It's the small things,” Anaya said. He added that the type of chicken they use makes the difference in flavor.

The feature of the restaurant is El Rodeo Especiale. Anaya explains it consists of char-broiled chicken, carne asada, sauted shrimp and mushrooms.

The hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays,11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Seating is first-come, first served. Reservations are recommended for parties of eight people or more.

David Teller can be reached at [email protected]