Not only is Perez’s whole family involved, but also customers who have been coming to the restaurant for years all know each other, the owner said.
Perez’s love of cooking encouraged him to start working in restaurants. After leaving the roofing industry, Perez said he began as a busboy and worked his way up into the kitchen and front of the house. He was finally able to save up enough to open a restaurant with his wife, Gloria.
“I think when you do things with your heart and with the Lord first, everything happens eventually,” Perez said.
When Kassandra’s first opened, there were few restaurants nearby, Perez recalled, which helped him build a loyal customer base. Over the years, he was able to show his appreciation to some regulars by naming menu dishes after them.
Among the most popular dishes is the Parrillada Mix—chicken, steak, shrimp and sausage fajitas.
In April 2022, Kassandra’s Mexican Kitchen will celebrate 18 years in Keller.
“I was never too ambitious,” he said. “I just want to have a good life. I’m not that kind of guy that’s gonna die working to save money. ... I want to enjoy my life, [and] I want my grandkids and kids to remember me as a good father.”
Perez said he is thankful for the support of patrons over the years.
“I love this business,” he said. “Every morning I come here, I’m so happy because I have a job, and I always thank the Lord because I have this place to work.”
Kassandra’s Mexican Kitchen - 813 Keller Parkway, Keller. 817-337-1577. www.kassandraskeller.com Hours: Mon. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Tue.-Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat.: temporarily closed, Sun.: closed
