Felipe’s Restaurant was founded in 1967 by Felipe and Lucy Lujano. 45 years later, Felipe has passed on, but Lucy still owns and operates the the original location at 3434 W. Central Avenue with her two sons, Felipe Jr. and Poncho.
Four years after opening the first Felipe’s, demand was so high that Felipe and Lucy needed to expand to a second location. The couple started serving up their signature flavors at Felipe’s Jr. in 1971. After spending a number of years traveling between restaurants, Felipe decided to sell Felipe’s Jr. to his niece and nephew-in-law, Martin and Chela Martinez.
Martin and Chela expanded the family’s reputation for high quality Mexican food, and in 1999 purchased a new location for Felipe’s Jr. which expanded the size and service capabilities of the restaurant.
But that’s not all…
Felipe’s brother Roberto opened the third Felipe’s restaurant in 1991 with his wife Teresa. They still run the 21st & Woodlawn location.
By the time Felipe’s sons Felipe Jr. and Poncho opened the fourth and newest Felipe’s in 2009, the family had already established its reputation for authentic Mexican eats. They had made their careers in the industry and their dedication and commitment to quality made them a Wichita institution.
The story of Felipe’s is a story of family. Of tenacity. Of hard work paying off. When you eat at Felipe’s, no matter which location you choose, you become a valuable part of that family, and that’s how you’ll be treated!