Little Mexico Galesburg will bring authentic Mexican food back to 164 S. Academy St. within the next two weeks.
Maria Ceron and Antonio Flores are the owners of the new restaurant, which occupies the space most recently home to El Jarochito. Flores was a partial owner there for years before stepping away after the original owner’s death. Ceron has worked at several Mexican restaurants in the area, including the former Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Galesburg, as well as El Jarochito and Casa Hidalgo in Woodhull.
The name Little Mexico comes from how the community referred to El Jarochito. Ceron said the previous name was difficult for many to pronounce, so people called it Little Mexico.
“If we want the same great customers that they used to have here, we definitely need something catchy and Little Mexico would just click onto all the familiar people,” she said.
Ceron and Flores say plans for Little Mexico Galesburg have been underway since September.
The restaurant will offer dine-in and carryout service but no alcohol. Seating is limited to 18-20 spots. Hours will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
The tentative menu features homemade dishes with coastal Mexican flavors. It includes tacos, burritos, fajitas, enchiladas, chimichangas and grilled shrimp options, along with appetizers such as queso fundido con chorizo, guacamole and homemade horchata. Vegetarian choices and kids’ meals are also available.
Ceron said the restaurant aims to be affordable amid rising food costs and to serve nearby groups such as Knox College students, firefighters, police and library staff.
She highlighted the personal connection to the community as a key difference. “Us is what’s going to be different,” she said. “Everybody knows him. Hey Antonio, when are you cooking?”
“Things happen for a reason,” Ceron said of the decision to open together.