The creators of the San Diego-based Delimex brand of frozen Mexican treats are scaling back on their El Tianguis fast-casual rolled taco restaurant with the closure of yet another location.
Oscar Ancira Sr. founded Delimex Holdings in San Diego in 1984. The company was originally a supplier of frozen tamales to warehouse clubs like Price Club but added taquitos to its menu in 1986, and the rest is history. The tightly rolled corn or flour tortillas filled with meats and cheese became the company's flagship product and one of the highest selling frozen foods in club stores. Private investment firm Fenway Partners aquired Delimex in 1997 before selling it to the H.J. Heinz Company in 2001. Today, Delimex is one of the most ubiquitous grocery store frozen taquito brands.
In 2018, Oscar Ancira Jr. repurposed his father's legacy for the 21st century with the opening of El Tianguis Rolled Taquitos in San Diego's North Park. Designed in the theme of Mexican local markets, or tianguis, the restaurant is decorated in the spirit of a bright and festive bazaar with an open kitchen where diners can see fresh corn tortillas being made using an automated machine. Taquitos are available with a variety of fillings like shredded beef, chicken, cheese, as well as vegetarian and vegan versions like potato and lentil & quinoa.
In 2018, Oscar Ancira Jr. repurposed his father's legacy for the 21st century with the opening of El Tianguis Rolled Taquitos in San Diego's North Park. Designed in the theme of Mexican local markets, or tianguis, the restaurant is decorated in the spirit of a bright and festive bazaar with an open kitchen where diners can see fresh corn tortillas being made using an automated machine. Taquitos are available with a variety of fillings like shredded beef, chicken, cheese, as well as vegetarian and vegan versions like potato and lentil & quinoa.
In addition to the original North Park branch, El Tianguis eateries opened in Millenia Town Center in Chula Vista, Westfield Plaza Bonita in National City, and Civita Park in Mission Valley. Both South Bay branches have since closed and the Mission Valley branch at 7995 Civita Boulevard will end its run after end of day on July 24, as the space is being leased by the neighboring veterinarian. The original North Park location is now the only branch left in business.
For more information about El Tianguis, visit bestrolledtacos.com.
