Hay Caramba Brings Authentic Mexican Taste to Park Ridge

While Hay Caramba is rated as among the top 10 restaurants in Park Ridge, owners Bull and Josephine Saavedra are quite humble about their restaurant.

The duo first opened their doors at 122 S. Prospect Ave. in Park Ridge in 1992. Prior to that, the Saavedras ran Texco Restaurant in Chicago. Bull said he came to Park Ridge because he thought it was a great community.

"The people here are very nice," he said. "I take care of the people, we make good food and [providing] great service means everything."

Saavedra said he came to Chicago from Mexico with his wife. Now, the two reside in Morton Grove and have no plans of leaving their beloved restaurant.

"I've been in this business for 31 years," Saavedra said. "I like everything about it."

Mr. Saavedra added that his most popular dishes include the chicken fajitas and steaks.

According to some Yelp! users, Hay Caramba is "One of the most beautiful Mexican restaurants you will visit," said Heather L. from Des Plaines. "It's your traditional Mexican/American menu. But go for the chicken mole - they ought to bottle it. Really yummy and good margaritas, too."

Before opening Texco Restaurant and before opening Hay Caramba, Saavedra said he used to work in a factory. 

Bull and Josephine Saavedra have been together for 38 years, which Bull joked was "too long."

"She works with the customers and I manage," Bull said. "We're pretty happy and pleased with the way things have turned out. We love our customers."

To check out Hay Caramba's Facebook page, click here.

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