(COLORADO SPRINGS) — For almost 30 years, 3 Margaritas in Widefield has been a go-to spot for locals–and they’re still packing the house. It’s not just the sizzling plates that keep people coming back; it’s the feeling of family and community that fills the place.

This week on Foodie Finds, FOX21’s Krista Witiak stopped by the kitchen to find out what’s kept this local favorite going strong all these years.

It all began when Arturo Gonzalez’s family moved from Washington, where they worked at Las Margaritas, to Colorado Springs. Inspired by the local community and opportunity, they opened their first 3 Margaritas location on South Academy Boulevard 28 years ago.

“He came, checked it out, fell in love,” Gonzalez recalled of his father’s and uncle’s decision. “And they opened up the first 3 Margaritas here.”

So what’s their secret to success after all these years? Gonzalez credits it to a simple philosophy passed down from his father: “Food, price, and service; those are the three keys to success for any restaurant, besides location.”

The restaurant refuses to cut corners, preparing everything fresh in-house — from hand-sliced carne asada to scratch-made tamales, despite pressure from vendors offering easier, pre-packaged options.

“If I wanted to reheat frozen food, I could just do it at my house,” Gonzalez says. “We try to be different by staying true to what set us apart at the beginning.”

You can see their dedication in popular dishes like chicken mole enchiladas, crispy chile rellenos, and breakfast burritos from their new food truck. There is something for everyone, no matter what you choose to order.

“This place isn’t too nice or too humble for anybody,” Gonzalez adds. “We take a lot of pride in that.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be 3 Margaritas without the namesake drinks. Their margaritas are big, 20 ounces, to be exact, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re sipping on the popular “Bar on the Beach,” a Paloma served with a squirt can inside, or the cheeky “Adios Amigo,” it’s clear the drink menu is as thoughtfully crafted as the food.

The regulars here are like family. Take Bridget, she stops by multiple times a week. Earning the nickname “grandma” from the staff.

“She really is family,” says Gonzalez. “We love her.”

Bridget isn’t alone; generations have grown up here and have never left the table.

“Seeing their kids go from kindergarten to graduating high school and heading to college—it’s been a great experience,” Gonzalez shared. “Not too many restaurants, I feel, get to be this involved in the community.”

That community loyalty showed up in a big way after a kitchen fire shut down operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. With no advertising, word spread fast once the doors reopened, and the dining room was full with an hour-long wait by dinnertime.

“Zero advertisement,” Gonzalez said. “Just word of mouth. The community.”

That kind of support isn’t lost on the Gonzalez family. “There were times when people didn’t want our food, but they were just buying it to get us through,” Arturo admits. “Me and my family, we’re so thankful. We wouldn’t be here without them today.”

So, after nearly three decades, what keeps people coming back? It’s not just the food—it’s the heart.

“We wouldn’t be anywhere without our customers,” Gonzalez says. “Thank you guys so much. My family and I appreciate you, and a special shout-out to everyone who has worked here or still works here. You make this possible.”

Visit FOX21 Deals under Features on FOX21News.com, or scan the QR code and purchase a $50 gift certificate to 3 Margaritas in the Widefield, Fountain, and Mesa communities for only $25. Certificates are limited, so get yours today!