Client Spotlight: Cuernavaca's Grill
From a 700 Sq. Ft. Taquería to a Multi-Location Success with $75,000 in Grants and Government Contracts: Securing 2 Catering Contracts with LAFD Following LA Fire Response
“Thank you for everything PACE has done for Cuernavaca’s Grill. We are truly so grateful, you have no idea how much it means to us. The guidance, opportunities, and support you continue to provide make all the difference, not only for us, but it’s a ripple effect that I’ve seen in our community.”
Nayomie Mendoza at the 2025 SEPS (Sports & Entertainment Procurement Summit), Panel 3: Winning Big — Lessons From Small Businesses Behind Major Events, on October 23, 2025.
In the heart of Los Angeles, Cuernavaca’s Grill stands as a testament to hard work, family legacy, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Founded in 2005 by Marcos and Maria Mendoza, first-generation immigrants who pursued the American Dream, the restaurant began as a 700 sq. ft. eatery in Long Beach before relocating to a larger space in LA. Over the years, their dedication to serving fresh, handmade Mexican dishes built a loyal customer base, allowing them to expand their original location and later open a second restaurant in Bell, California in 2023.
Now led by Nayomie and Jackie Mendoza, the next generation of entrepreneurs, Cuernavaca’s Grill is embracing new opportunities for growth while staying true to its family roots.
Nayomie initially reached out to PACE in 2024, when she attended PACE’s Business Grant Workshop in 2024, where she learned best practices for securing grants and government contracts. She also learned about resources on where to look for business grants.
Through 1:1 business counseling with Cristina Espiritu, Procurement Manager at PACE (Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment), Nayomie received tailored guidance on navigating government contracting opportunities and learned how to identify relevant RFPs (Requests for Proposals) from local government agencies. Cristina guided her through the bid submission process, ensuring compliance with requirements and provided feedback on capability statements to make them more competitive. Cristina also assisted her in the registration process for RAMPLA and other procurement databases, increasing visibility for potential contracts.,
These strategic moves have positioned Cuernavaca’s Grill for catering opportunities, securing contracts with the LA County and the LA Fire Department. PACE continues to send Nayomie potential RFPs, giving Cuernavaca’s Grill access to ongoing bidding opportunities that align with their services.
The restaurant’s success has also led to major brand collaborations, one of which was with Strawberry Shortcake during Hispanic Heritage Month. In 2024, Cuernavaca’s Grill received a $75,000 grant from Siete Foods on The Drew Barrymore Show, providing a financial boost for expansion efforts.
From a small family-run taquería to a thriving multi-location business, Cuernavaca’s Grill continues to bring the rich flavors of Mexico to LA while creating economic opportunities for the local community. With PACE’s continued support in government contracting, proposal bidding, and strategic business growth, the Mendoza family is well on their way to turning their family restaurant into a household name.
You may view their Instagram page and Yelp Business for more information.