Port Royal: A Fiesta of Flavor on Ribaut Road
Welcome to Port Royal, a bustling hub where the irresistible allure of Mexican cuisine is taking center stage! If you’ve ever driven down Ribaut Road, you’ll know what we’re talking about. This lively stretch of road is a treasure trove of mouthwatering delights, where Mexican food lovers can feast to their heart’s content. From street tacos to quesabirria, the delicious aromas and infectious sounds of Spanish-language music fill the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere that beckons residents and visitors alike.
The Home of Tacos and More
With a 2.5-mile stretch on Ribaut Road packed with an array of Mexican eateries, it’s clear that the local community is craving those bold and spicy flavors. The newest additions to this feast are Pedro’s Tacos and Rancho Grande, both owned by the ambitious Pedro Solorio. At just 32 years old, Pedro is on a mission! His family arrived in Beaufort from central Mexico over two decades ago, and their love for food and hospitality has bloomed ever since. Did you know Pedro and his family now operate four Mexican restaurants here, with a fifth on the horizon? Talk about dreams coming true!
From Dishwashing to Dominating the Scene
Pedro’s journey into the culinary world is inspirational. Coming to Beaufort as an eight-year-old with no English skills, he started working in restaurants alongside his father, quickly rising from washing dishes to managing his own restaurants. “I love being part of this beautiful town,” he shares, all while welcoming a new Marine graduate and his family into his restaurant, Dos Amigos Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar. Isn’t that just heartwarming?
Big Flavors and Bold Choices
At Pedro’s Tacos, located just before the Parris Island bridge, you can find some truly unique offerings. They serve up birria—a slow-cooked Mexican brisket—in inventive dishes like a 14-inch pizza birria, and even ramenbirria. Don’t forget the Mexican hot dogs too! Solorio aims to shake things up with a Californian twist, where everything is possible—whether you want sit-down service, a quick pickup, or a drive-through meal. Sounds like a foodie paradise!
The Popularity Puzzle
But what is it about Mexican food that keeps everyone coming back for more? Pedro has some thoughts on that. “Mexican restaurants can make you feel like you’re dining in a five-star establishment, yet they remain budget-friendly,” he explains. As the world changes around us, Pedro emphasizes the importance of a warm and welcoming atmosphere in his restaurants—striving to spread positivity, a contrast to the negativity sometimes felt in today’s society. “That means a lot,” he adds.
Ribaut Road: The New Mexican Food Hub
Ribaut Road is more than just a busy thoroughfare; it’s rapidly becoming the go-to place for Mexican cuisine in the region. With beloved spots like Agave Mexican Grill and La Nopalera already in the mix, the Solorio family has successfully carved out their space in this bustling food scene. “I just needed to ‘do me, be me,’” Pedro reflects, as he expanded his family’s legacy onto Ribaut Road. And guess what? Since moving, sales at Rancho Grande have jumped between 30% to 40%!
A Taste of Authenticity
While some of the dishes reflect a blend of flavors influenced by the East Coast, Pedro admits that they’ve made little tweaks to suit the palate of local diners. His take on authenticity is fascinating; he believes that real Mexican tacos—with corn tortillas and steak—are what people crave rather than the more Americanized versions.
Looking Ahead
As for the future, Pedro has plans to open another restaurant on Lady’s Island, but for now, he’s focused on ensuring that his current establishments thrive in Beaufort. “Beaufort has given me everything, so it deserves the best of me,” he says, with unwavering devotion. Plus, there’s word of a relocation of Dos Amigos to a new prime spot, enhancing their reach to even more hungry patrons.
So, the next time you’re in Port Royal, don’t forget to take that drive down Ribaut Road. With an array of amazing Mexican food options to choose from, it’s a feast for the senses you won’t want to miss. The Solorio family definitely seems to know the secret sauce for success in the midst of all this flavorful competition!
