Fiesta Azteca, a Mexican restaurant straddling Kingwood and Humble, has been open 14 years—with 90% of the staff having worked at the eatery from day one, owner Hilton Kupritz said. The loyal staff has translated into quality food and drinks patrons can count on, Kupritz said. The two bartenders, Manny Samora and Cecilia Noyola, have worked at the restaurant for roughly 8-10 years, Kupritz said. “Nothing has changed,” Kupritz said. “They know exactly what they’re doing, and that is what makes the margaritas good.” Fiesta Azteca is best known for its $2.50 margaritas, fajitas and chili con queso, Kupritz said. Other popular menu items include chimichangas, burritos, tacos, taco salad and chips with fresh guacamole. With its high ceilings and Mexican decor, the restaurant is a favorite place for law enforcement, firefighters and teachers who are celebrating their retirement, Kupritz said. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating on a deck, which was constructed three years ago. Kupritz, who is from South Africa, and his wife, Patty, a Texas native, took ownership of Fiesta Azteca in 2012, but the couple is not new to the food and beverage industry. The Kupritzes also own two other businesses on Loop 494: Pop’s Ice House, a biker bar in Kingwood, and Porter Cocktail Lounge in Porter. Additionally, the couple used to own Rose Country Club on Homestead Road and Nico’s Bar and Grill in Kingwood until 2016, Kupritz said. “Bars are easy—restaurants are hard work,” Kupritz said. “It’s so busy; it’s crazy, and if it rains, it’s even busier. ... Every Sunday after 12:30 p.m., it’s packed here.” Unlike many businesses in the Lake Houston area, Hurricane Harvey did not damage the restaurant, Kupritz said. However, more than 6 feet of floodwater destroyed the 80-acre horse ranch the Kupritzes own in the historic part of Humble called Moonshine Hill. “Patty was swimming out with the horses!” Kupritz said. “We have to fix and rebuild it, but that’s all right. Patty loves it.” Fiesta Azteca 20669 W. Lake Houston Parkway, Humble 281-812-3002 fiestazteka.com Hours: Sun.-Thu. 11 a.m.- 9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.