Felix Tijerina

American restaurateur and civic leader

Felix Tijerina (1905–1965) was a prominent Mexican-American restaurateur and civic leader based in Houston, Texas. He is best known for his successful chain of Felix Mexican Restaurants and his significant contributions to the Mexican-American community through his involvement in various civic organizations.

Early Life

Felix Tijerina was born in 1905 in Sugar Land, Texas, to a family of Mexican descent. Growing up in a time of significant racial and economic challenges, Tijerina worked from a young age to support his family. His early experiences in the workforce laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community service.

Career

Tijerina began his career in the restaurant industry as a busboy, gradually working his way up to become a successful restaurateur. In 1929, he opened the first Felix Mexican Restaurant in Houston, which quickly gained popularity for its authentic Mexican cuisine.

Felix Mexican Restaurant in Houston

The success of his restaurant led to the establishment of several more locations, making Felix Mexican Restaurants a well-known brand in the region. Tijerina's restaurants were celebrated for their unique blend of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex flavors, which appealed to a broad audience.

Civic Engagement

Beyond his business ventures, Tijerina was deeply involved in civic activities. He served as the national president of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) from 1956 to 1960. During his tenure, he focused on improving educational opportunities for Mexican-American children, famously initiating the "Little School of the 400" program, which aimed to teach English to young children before they entered public school.

Historical marker commemorating Felix Tijerina's contributions

Tijerina's leadership in LULAC and his advocacy for education and civil rights significantly impacted the Mexican-American community, helping to pave the way for future generations.

Legacy

Felix Tijerina passed away in 1965, but his legacy continues to be felt in Houston and beyond. His contributions to the restaurant industry and his civic leadership have been recognized through various honors, including a historical marker in Houston commemorating his achievements.

Felix-style chile con queso, a popular dish at his restaurants

Tijerina's life and work exemplify the impact that one individual can have on both their community and industry, serving as an inspiration for future entrepreneurs and civic leaders.

Related Pages

• Tex-Mex cuisine
• League of United Latin American Citizens
• Mexican-American culture