The Memo’s Difference
At Memo’s Mexican Kitchen, every dish tells a story — one of tradition, hard work, and a lifelong love for authentic Mexican flavor.
Since 2006, Memo has poured his heart into the restaurant that now bears his name. What began as a dream when he immigrated to the United States has become one of Middle Tennessee’s most beloved dining destinations. Memo’s Mexican Kitchen is known for its warmth, authenticity, and a menu made entirely from scratch.
FROM DREAM TO LEGACY
Memo began working in the restaurant in the early 2000s, learning every detail of the kitchen and building relationships that felt more like family than co-workers. In 2011, he became a partner, and by 2017, Memo and his wife, Katie, took full ownership. Changing the name to Memo’s Mexican Kitchen shaped Memo’s into the vibrant, community-rooted restaurant it is today.
Their vision was simple but bold: to offer true, traditional Mexican cuisine, not the “Speedy Gonzales”-style plates so common elsewhere, but meals prepared the way they’re meant to be enjoyed. That means no shortcuts, no canned sauces, and no compromise on flavor or quality.
RECOGNITION & ACCOLADES
NASHVILLE SCENE
Over the years, Memo’s has continued to earn recognition for its dedication to authentic flavor and hospitality — including being named one of Nashville Scene’s Top Restaurants in Wilson County (2025). They were voted best restaurant in Wilson County in 2022, 2023 & 2024!
MT. JULIET CHRONICLE
Winning the 2025 Main Street Award for Best Mexican/Taco—and being recognized as a finalist in 2023 and 2024—means more than an accolade to Memo. It’s a reminder that bringing the true flavors of Mexico to Mt. Juliet connects cultures, tells stories, and builds community one plate at a time.
Before the name change, El Rey Azteca won the Chronicle’s Best Mexican Restaurant in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2019, & 2020!
WILSON POST
For Memo, being a finalist in the Wilson County Main Street Awards in 2023, 2024, and 2025 isn’t just recognition—it’s inspiration. Each year, the support of our Wilson County neighbors reminds us why we do what we do: to share Mexico’s rich culinary traditions, honor our roots, and bring a taste of home to every table in our community.
Name change in 2020
In 2020, El Rey Azteca became Memo’s Mexican Kitchen, marking a new chapter focused on elevating the flavors, presentation, and experience of authentic Mexican cuisine. The goal was simple. Bring the same family recipes to the table, but with a renewed commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and community pride. Memo’s was built to show that true Mexican food is not fast or cheap. It’s rich, refined, and worthy of celebration.
our staff
At Memo’s, the people behind the food matter just as much as what’s on the plate. Every team member is known by name, treated with respect, and paid a fair, living wage, because great restaurants are built by people who feel valued and supported. Memo believes that running a truly authentic kitchen means doing things the right way, taking pride in honest work, & creating an environment where his staff can build lasting careers and balanced lives.
Always evolving,
always authentic
Memo’s continues to grow and adapt, introducing new dishes that celebrate both tradition and creativity. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll always find something made with heart, love, and the best quality ingredients.
Because The Memo’s Difference isn’t just about food. It’s about history, family, and the belief that every meal should mean something.