But the story of El Fenix is really the story of the Miguel Martinez family. It begins in 1890 in Old Mexico where Miguel “Mike” Martinez was born. Early in life, the founder of El Fenix learned what it was to endure hardships and long hours of labor. He started to work at the age of seven, driving a string of burros to and from the mines for pennies a week. At the age of fifteen, Mike went to work in the mines and, with his meager wages, supported himself and his mother. After her death, Mike left his native land for the United States. He eventually arrived in Dallas, where he got a job washing dishes at the old Oriental hotel, then located across from the Adolphus Hotel. There he learned the art of cooking.

In 1918, Mike opened a small cafe on the corner of Griffin Street and McKinney Avenue in the part of Dallas then known as “Little Mexico”. However, at that time Mike served only American dishes. On the insistence of his customers, who saw him eating his native foods, he began preparing Mexican dishes as well as creations of his own. Soon Mike’s patrons acquired the taste for enchiladas, chili, tamales and frijoles a la Tex Mex. Thus, on September 15, 1918 a food revolution began and Tex Mex was born. Mike’s menu and friendly atmosphere drew customers from all parts of Dallas until a move to larger quarters became necessary. He purchased and converted a grocery store building at 1608 McKinney. Here Mike’s vision, energy, and capacity to work long hours were given full expression.

A short time before Mike opened his first cafe, he married the beautiful Faustina Porras. Their children grew up in the cafe business, and Mike gave them practical experience in the cooking and serving of El Fenix foods.

With the start of World War II, Mike said good-bye to his four grown sons as each answered his country’s call to service. Then, following their safe return, Mike Martinez retired from El Fenix, and entrusted his business to his children, believing more than ever in the El Fenix name. He saw himself, in this new cycle of his life, as more vigorous through the achievements of his family.

Mike spent the rest of his years at his boyhood home of Hacienda Del Potero, Mexico where he shared his kindness and success with poor townspeople. Mike Martinez died on February 22, 1956.