Juan in a Million is an East Austin staple that's withstood a wave of change
AUSTIN (ABJ) — A visit to the longstanding Tex-Mex eatery Juan in a Million is like a step into the Meza family’s living room. It’s a glimpse into the culture and vibrancy that have helped foster Austin's bountiful economic growth in recent decades, all thanks to good food, kind people and a lot of fun from establishments that now stand as symbols of Old Austin.
The iconic 43-year-old restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch, founded by educators-turned-entrepreneurs Juan and Myrna Meza, is a mainstay on East Cesar Chavez Street. The East Austin neighborhood is arguably the heart of Austin’s hip spirit but also ground zero for the conflicting realities of gentrification, wealth disparity and inequality that's brought to the forefront by the city's rapid redevelopment.
Amid all that change, Juan in a Million has remained a local gathering place. It has put Austin’s Mexican American culture on a global stage, from its 8-taco Don Juan Challenge featured on the Travel Channel and other publications to television appearances and celebrity connections. Homegrown football stars, musicians, Hollywood actors and politicians have all stopped by to try a taste of East Austin and shake Juan Meza's hand — an experience most customers have when they walk into the restaurant.
Read the full story at the Austin Business Journal.