TA CANIJO · JOLIET, ILLINOIS · SINCE 2011

Our Story

Ta Canijo was built on the belief that hard work, family, and authentic Mexican street food have the power to bring people together. Those values come directly from our founder, Pepe, whose journey is reflected into every taqueria we open and every meal we serve.

Pepe's story ↓

From door to door to twelve taquerias

Four chapters, in Pepe's story.

THE BEGINNING
Door to Door
Raised by a single mother and inspired by his grandfather's small neighborhood restaurant, Pepe learned early that nothing is handed to you. As a kid, he went door to door with his mom selling tamales. It wasn't easy, but it taught him resilience, humility, and gratitude.
THE SYMBOL
The Tamales Stayed
Those same tamales that once represented sacrifice have become one of the greatest symbols of his journey. They remain part of our menu because they represent family, and the traditions that shaped his life.
Still on the menu today.
2011
A Love Letter to Joliet
In 2011, Pepe opened Puerto Escondido in Joliet, a milestone and a love letter to the city he proudly calls home. Joliet wasn't simply the city where he opened his first restaurant. It became the community that embraced him, inspired him, and gave him the chance to dream bigger. He's proud to represent its hardworking families, rich culture, and strong sense of community.
TWELVE AND GROWING
Ta Canijo
Listening to his guests at Puerto Escondido and their love for tacos inspired him to create Ta Canijo. What started small has grown into 12 Ta Canijo taquerias, with plans to continue growing while staying true to the values that started it all: authentic Mexican street food, warm smiles, and a family you can feel.
12
TAQUERIAS AND GROWING

At Ta Canijo, every taco and every tamal tells a story. They tell the story of a hardworking mother, a grandfather who inspired a dream, a young boy who refused to give up, and a man who found his home in Joliet.

Ta Canijo

See the menu →

Our Team

At Ta Canijo, our team is the heart of everything we do.

Every smile.Every taco.Every guest experience.

It all starts with our team.

We share a passion for authentic Mexican street food and serving our community with pride.

Some of our team members have been with us for years, while others are just beginning their journey. Every day, we work together and learn from one another as we continue building a stronger team.

We believe great restaurants start with great people and we're grateful for the team that brings Ta Canijo to life every day.