Originally, El Jefe was a dream. Alma Hernandez, the founder of the restaurant, owned a food stand where she would sell tacos, taquitos, and similar food. Mariela Hernandez, Alma’s daughter and waitress at El Jefe, stated that “It was my mother’s dream to own a restaurant and not a taco shop.” Thus, with the work of the Hernandez family, El Jefe was born. However, it wasn’t always like it is now. When the business was just getting started, there was only one location on Calvada Blvd and ten tables. It was very slow and there was barely any business. Mariela stated that she started waiting tables at 16 years old, her sister was bussing tables at 13. When asked what this was like, she said “It was really hard. I had never worked before. I would get out of school and go straight to work. The trays were heavy and it included a lot of walking.”

Now, 15 years later, El Jefe is still a family-owned business and has grown to be a town favorite. On top of that, they now have two locations, the one on Calvada and one on 160. Due to the restaurant’s becoming popular, it has allowed Mariela to meet many different people. She said that her favorite part of working at the restaurant was getting to know others and making many friends. They also have regular customers, like any restaurant. Mariela explained that there is a customer she has that comes in twice a day and orders the same thing every time. 

On to things that can be ordered, El Jefes has a decent variety of Mexican cuisine. From burritos to seafood options, there is something for almost everybody. One of their most popular dishes according to Mariela is the chicken diablo. If you order it, you get to choose the spice level, mild, medium, or hot. It includes bell peppers, onions, and of course chicken in a cream sauce, with a side of rice and beans. Another big item is the molcajetes. This entree includes carne asada, shrimp, pork, and chicken. Topped with avocado, lime, pico de gayo, and roasted jalapeños. Also served with a side of rice and beans. They also make their tortillas, either corn or flour. On top of that, the chips and salsa there are also homemade. I have tried all of these and loved them. However, if you want to form your judgment, I suggest stopping in for dinner, or breakfast because they serve that too. You can find them at  921 NV-160 for the second location or 1560 E Calvada Blvd, Pahrump, NV 89048 for the original one. If you would like more information about what they serve, call 775-757-6222. I have attached a photo of their menu below.