'Mi Casa es Tu Casa,' says new local restaurant owner

MOUNT ZION, Ill. (WAND) — A new Mexican restaurant in Mount Zion has been busy, and they've been open less than a week.

Co-owner Miguel Hernandez said Mi Casa's use of spices is what makes their recipes special.

"For all my dishes, to be honest, it's from David Fuentes. That is the key. The kitchen is the key with the restaurant," said Hernandez.

Hernandez's connection with his staff makes the environment even better

"I worked in the past with these guys years ago, and now when I opened the restaurant, I called each other, 'hey, the restaurant's ready, get back to me guys? And everybody back to me,'" said Hernandez.

Six months ago, this was nothing more than a building that needed extra care. There was no plumbing, electrical, or even ceilings.

But when he needed help the most, his community offered their support.

"Where I'm working for six months and every people come here, help me do something. [They] would make my concrete for the kitchen, make new concrete. All people come and here like, I had a lot of support with my community, you know, doing me up in the restaurant," said Hernandez.

The community made this restaurant what it is today.

"I'm happy to get my people, customers, friends, I love it, I love it … mi casa es su casa," said Hernandez.

Mi Casa is at 1045 N State Highway 121 in Mount Zion.