Our Journey: The Retro Project
The desire to bring a different kind of Mexican restaurant to the area ignited a vision in Miguel and Ronica's minds. Encouragement from the community fueled their ambition, and the Retro Project was born! With more than 20 years in the restaurant industry and a natural talent for customer service, Miguel aspired to open a restaurant that showcased his own ideas. Ronica supported his dream and soon found herself just as passionate about the idea. To complete their dream team, they knew they needed a talented and determined chef. They settled for nothing less than the best, bringing Galdino Cruz on board as kitchen manager and head chef. Galdino, also with more than 20 years in the restaurant industry, yearned for the freedom to manage a kitchen that meets his high expectations and to create dishes that surpass other flavors found locally. Together, the trio joined forces and established their motto, "Con Todos los Poderes," which means "With all the Powers." This motto enforced the acknowledgment that none of them could do this alone. The collaboration of their individual talents, drive, and creativity in their own areas of expertise, led by the most important power, their Faith in God, is what Retro is built on. Together, they work to bring a unique dining experience to Dubois County, blending Mexican tradition with their own personal styles.
Ronica’s Unforeseen Path
You never know what opportunities God will put in your path. Ronica, a veteran ICU nurse at Memorial Hospital and long-time resident of Jasper, never imagined owning a restaurant. Faith in God and her faith in Miguel’s and Galdino’s decades of experience in the restaurant industry are what led Ronica to go all-in as Retro’s main investor and owner. Her nursing career ultimately funded the Retro project, catapulting her into a very different professional world of business ownership and operation. She is grateful for all of the support, mentoring, and guidance she has received from other area business owners, as well as the community. She will tell you openly that her trust in God through her endless prayers about the Retro project is ultimately what secured her decision, and for Him, she is most grateful!
The Retro Theme: A Blend of 70’s and 80’s nostalgia and Authentic Mexican Culture
Ronica and Miguel’s love for the retro era – 70s and 80s upbeat music, vibrant neon colors and lights, and feel-good energy – inspired the name and atmosphere of Retro Mexican Cuisine. The couple wanted a name that both Latino and American populations could recognize. The decision to call it Retro was perfect, as it translates directly into both Spanish and English with the same meaning and reflects the vintage, fun vibe they aim to create.
The Menu: A Mix of Classics and Unique Dishes
Retro’s menu features traditional Mexican Classics alongside unique dishes that you won’t find at other local restaurants.
- Handmade Tortillas: Made fresh daily by Retro’s own tortillaria, bringing a new level of freshness and flavor to many of our dishes.
- Birria: A traditional and versatile stew originating in Guadalajara, this slow cooked beef is packed with bold flavors and served in tacos, burritos, and quesadillas with consumme for dipping and sipping.
- Esquites: Grilled corn, fresh off the cob, mixed with Cotija Cheese, Tajin, and other fresh ingredients, served as savory appetizer.
- The Titan 26: A massive 26-inch burrito served on a custom-made platter. Take the Titan Challenge and finish the dish in one sitting to earn your spot on the Titan Wall of Fame!
- Papa Bombas, aka Potato Bombs: A giant baked potato exploding with flavors of chicken, steak, shrimp, pastor, grilled onions and peppers, sauces, and cheeses.
- Desserts:
Retro’s all-homemade line-up of desserts round out the menu. Retro takes pride in our desserts, all home-made by the owner, Ronica, and local baker, Tammy Bedolla, owner of
Cake Babies.
The Bar: Craft Beers and Custom Cocktails
Retro features a full bar with a full line of margaritas, custom cocktails, craft beers, and locally-made beer brewed by Patoka Lake Brewery (add link to them). Whether you are in the mood for a cold brew, a traditional margarita, or a top-shelf creation, Retro can quinch your thirst! Our fresh squeezed Skinny, Cucumber, Jalepeno, and Champangne Margaritas are just a few that make us a local favorite.
Cultural Influences: Art, Music, and Luchador Masks
Retro’s atmosphere reflects a combined love for the 70’s-80’s music and style alongside iconic elements of Mexican Culture. Luchadors are a key feature of the restaurant, showcasing a Mexican tradition that has intertwined with American wrestling entertainment for decades. Much of the décor is hand-crafted and hand-painted to suit the couples’ energetic flair and personal styles.
The Complete Retro Experience
With fresh, locally sourced ingredients, handmade tortillas, and a unique atmosphere, Retro Mexican Cuisine provides an unmatched dining experience. From the welcoming hospitality of Miguel, Ronica, and their service staff to Galdino’s mouthwatering creations that keep you coming back, Retro has become a local favorite in Dubois County and beyond. With two dining rooms, a full bar, an energetic atmosphere, and an open patio overlooking the beautiful Parklands of Jasper lakes and nature landscape, customers agree, “You just FEEL GOOD at Retro!”
Location Details
Retro Mexican Cuisine is located at 2031 Newton St, Ste C, Jasper, just north of Culver's Restaurant, on the north side of The Parklands. Prepare to experience something new when you visit our restaurant!
