» History

The Melendez Family

A Story of a family who had a Dream

       “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in Life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” (-Booker T. Washington) There is nothing more true than the all too familiar struggle the Don Juan family overcame to now be renowned as one of community’s finest, affable, delectable Mexican restaurants. The history of such an establishment is easily forgotten when biting into a succulent piece of the ever popular steak fajita, but the achievement of this determined family may not differ from that of our very own. Maria and Samuel Melendez wed with a mere $0.87 to their name. They then borrowed a small loan to buy their very first house in Queens. Being as smart as they are, the Melendez family flipped their very home; then with that profit moved to Long Island and opened up their first little restaurant in Merrick. . With Maria in the kitchen cooking up new dishes, which we are all now extremely fond of, and Samuel the waiter and bartender, Don Juan was born. Working 20 hours a day, including driving out to the Bronx Market at three in the morning to purchase the freshest ingredients, they pushed themselves to the limit.

       They then relocated in 1980 to what is now one of the largest commercial, most lucrative roads on Long Island; Old Country Rd in Westbury. It would be the rebirth of the Don Juan cuisine. With Live Mariachi band, Authentic Mexican stage shows, Tequila poppers and everybody’s favorite day Cinco de Mayo, Don Juan had made its mark. Many other eateries have risen and fallen throughout the years, but the heart and soul of this family could not allow everything they’ve worked so hard for to crumble. Then in 1985 The baby sister was born, El Zorro would be her name then changing over to Don Juan. This diamond in the rough located in Massapequa Park has recently been remodeled to an upscale fine dining experience. Expanding, evolving, and always astonishing, Don Juan has been adored by all. Politicians such as Rudolph Giuliani, legendary musicians like Tito Puente gracing The Stage, and our own Giants, Mets, Yankees, Long Island Dragons, and the NY Jets have delighted us with their presence. An unsatisfied stomach never walks out our door.

       We strive to serve you a meal you’ll always remember, never forget and love to talk about. “All great achievements require time.” (-Maya Angelou.). The Melendez family have owened and operated Don Juan for over a quarter century and will for many years to come. This is only possible because of you, our customers but more then that a family member. Therefore from all of us we Thank You from the bottom of our hearts.

~ A story told by their son Marcus Melendez ~