"We make food that makes people happy"
AMPARO, OWNER
OUR STORY
30 years ago, “Tio Gera” decided to move to South Bend and open up Casa Roma at 1636 N. Ironwood Dr. South Bend In 46635 - an Italian/Mexican eatery. The concept of serving both Mexican and Italian food was born of a friendship with another chef, Latif at Elcona Country club. The concept was very short lived and in need of an alternative solution, his cousin decided to help on one condition, that the name was changed to his mom’s name. This provided a financial injection that proved to be the right move. Casa Roma was renamed La Esperanza to honor his cousin’s mom and beloved aunt, Esperanza. Now going 30 years strong. The family has two independent locations. Elkhart on Jackson Blvd now operated by "Uncle George" and South Bend's relocated at the Ivy Courts within the South Bend Cubs stadium Operated by Tio Gera's daughter, Monica. With this move, we decided to it was time to do something a little different. So we created a fresh take on the Original. Mami Mari's. An effort to honor the classics while exploring new ideas, concepts and flavors....
Tio Gera is no longer with us but his memories and aspirations remain with us. His sister Amparo was a key part of the humble beginnings of the restaurant and continued to be part of the restaurants her family created. She wanted to continue the tradition of the family restaurants in the original location and honor the legacy. So we decided to honor the very influence that drove it all. It was time to honor our Grandmother Maria, the matriarch that drove it all. The sweetest and most loving reason why everyone worked so hard. The very reason why all of her brothers, including Tio Gera came to this country. To earn and provide for mom and their family. Mamí Mari was the driving force. The reason why we have such a loving and caring family is her. She permeated love to every one around her. Family or not. If you were not family, you would be by the time she was done. She has been gone for quite some time. But her memory lives on and her influence has impacted even many whom she never met. Mamí Mari radiated love...
Amparo means Hope. and her hopes and aspirations were to continue the legacy her brother and family worked so hard to create. We have been serving our communities in Elkhart and South Bend for over 30 years. So lets do another 30 more…