OUR STORY:
THE QUEST FOR AUTHENTICITY
Our journey began with a simple chat between two friends. Amidst our talks,
mondongo, a beloved traditional dish from Antioquia, emerged as a topic, igniting the idea that led to
Mondongo’s.
Faced with a craving for authentic mondongo, two friends embarked on a quest in Medellín, only to be
disappointed by the options available. The taste and service didn’t meet their expectations, sparking an
idea.A friend suggested to Octavio, «Why not start your own mondongo business?» Inspired by the lack of
traditional flavors in the city, Octavio envisioned a restaurant that mirrored the culinary heritage of
Bolivar, his hometown.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE IDEA:
JULIETA'S INSPIRATION AND EXPERT GUIDANCE
Octavio shared his vision with his wife, Julieta, who instantly supported the idea. Seeking to ensure
success, Octavio consulted a seasoned business friend from Santa Marta, who was impressed and
offered his help.
THE INAUGURATION
October 9, 1976, marked the grand opening. Inviting friends from Ciudad Bolivar, the event was a hit with
around 200 guests relishing Julieta’s acclaimed mondongo recipe.
THE KEY TO SUCCESS:
The overwhelming response fueled Julieta’s passion further. The secret to their instant popularity?
Octavio credits it to exceptional quality and customer service, principles he honed during his time as a
waiter and now instills in his team.
GROWTH:
Mondongo’s rapidly gained fame as one of the top destinations for traditional Antioquian cuisine in Medellín. Evolving over the years, the restaurant expanded to a larger space on Carrera 70, where it stands today. In 1995, they ventured into opening a second location in a prestigious area and now in Miami, Florida.
THE INAUGURATION
October 9, 1976, was the date chosen for the launching, with an invitation to dozens of friends and acquaintances, mostly from Ciudad Bolivar. It was a successful inauguration, attended by an estimated 200 people, who enjoyed a mondongo made in Julieta’s best style, with the recipe that had already been highly acclaimed in her town.
THE KEY:
That triumphant start made Julieta even more passionate about the idea.Little by little, the place became more and more accredited. What was the key for it to remain full from the beginning? Octavio is clear and expresses it this way: «because of the quality of the product, combined with good customer service. It is a concept that I have had by conviction all my life because I was a waiter and I always served people well. So, I continue to apply it, now in my business, and I teach it to those who used to work with me,» he says.
