FROM MEXICO TO FORT LAUDERDALE:
OUR STORY
Meet Simonne Carrasco Mendez and her husband, Chef Hugo Mendez, the passionate duo behind Epazote, Fort Lauderdale’s cozy, family-owned Mexican restaurant. Their journey began in Mexico, where they met, soaking in the flavors, culture, and culinary heritage of Hugo’s hometown. When the world changed during COVID, they made the heartfelt decision to move to the U.S.A to be closer to Simonne’s parents, Karen and Roberto Carrasco—who now play a big role in the restaurant too.
Together, the family opened Epazote to bring something special to the neighborhood: authentic, high-quality Mexican food in a setting that feels like home. They noticed a gap in Fort Lauderdale—plenty of taco spots, but few places where you could sit down and enjoy homestyle authentic Mexican cuisine made with love, skill, and soul.
Chef Hugo, trained in mom and pop and high end kitchens all over Mexico, puts everything into each dish—from rich, complex mole poblano, to perfectly crisp quesabirrias, homemade tamales, and flavorful street-style tacos. His cooking isn’t just about recipes; it’s about telling a story—one plate at a time.
At Epazote, it’s not just about feeding people—it’s about sharing culture, tradition, and heart. From the colorful decor collected throughout their travels, to the warm, genuine hospitality that welcomes every guest, stepping into Epazote is like stepping into a little piece of Mexico.
Whether you're stopping by for Taco Tuesday, celebrating Margarita Monday, enjoying our Mexican brunch on the weekends, or just craving something flavorful for lunch, you'll always find more than just a meal—you’ll find a home away from home.
And when it comes to Mexican catering in Fort Lauderdale, Epazote is quickly becoming a local favorite. From intimate family gatherings to large corporate events, their catering services are highly requested for their quality, attention to detail, and incredible flavor.
Simonne, Chef Hugo, and the whole Carrasco family are truly grateful for every person who walks through their doors. So come by, say hola, and experience a taste of Mexico right here in Fort Lauderdale. They can't wait to cook for you.
🌮 Weekly Specials at Epazote:
Taco Tuesday – The city’s favorite street tacos at a can't-miss price
Margarita Monday – Kick off the week with handcrafted margaritas
Lunch Specials – Fast, fresh, and flavorful every weekday
Mexican Brunch Weekends – Featuring chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and more
🎉 Hosting an event? Ask about our Mexican catering services – perfect for office lunches, parties, or family celebrations.
MORE ABOUT CHEF HUGO
Chef Hugo Mendez, co-founder and head chef of Epazote in Fort Lauderdale, brings over 13 years of culinary experience and deep roots in authentic Mexican cuisine. A proud graduate of a gastronomy university in Mexico City, Hugo began his journey in food with a commitment to both technique and tradition.
After university, Hugo moved to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where he sharpened his skills during a hands-on internship. There, he began working in local restaurants, quickly progressing from casual eateries to upscale fine dining establishments at resorts. Known for his talent, work ethic, and warm personality, Hugo soon caught the attention of travelers and locals alike.
Through 13 years of experience, connections with restaurant clients and international tourists, he evolved into a sought-after private chef, cooking for families and guests in luxury villas across Cabo. His refined take on traditional Mexican dishes and his genuine passion for hospitality made him a favorite among visitors from around the world.
The idea for Epazote was born from the consistent encouragement Hugo received. Guests loved his food, but even more so, they loved his heart, hospitality, and the joy he brought to every meal. With inspiration and help from his wife, Simonne Carrasco Mendez—the two relocated to Fort Lauderdale and decided to open a space where Hugo’s culinary roots could truly shine.
Today, Chef Hugo brings that same authentic Mexican flavor and fine-dining attention to detail to every plate at Epazote. Whether you're enjoying our famous quesabirrias, a weekend Mexican brunch, or hiring us for catering, you’re experiencing the result of Hugo’s years of training, passion, and love for his culture.
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Family-like hospitality
Authenticity
High Quality
Community involvement
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Please come into the store to fill out an application and speak to the owner or one of the managers about the position you are applying for, we will happily set up an interview if actively hiring or we will save your resume for the future.
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To contact us, kindly call the restaurant and ask to speak with one of the owners or managers or send us an email at epazotefortlauderdale@gmail.com