The heart and soul behind Guitarras Mexican Grill

If you’ve ever walked into a restaurant and immediately felt like you were stepping into someone’s home, then you know exactly what it feels like to walk into Guitarras Mexican Grill. 

From the bright art on the walls (brought straight from Mexico) to the aroma of fresh tortillas on the grill — this isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience.

Opened in 2015, Guitarras has grown from one cozy location to three, plus a wildly popular food truck that’s become a staple at community events all around town. But don’t let the expansion fool you, this place has managed to hold on tight to its heart and soul.

Everything here is made from scratch, the corn tortillas, the chips, even the agua frescas (those refreshing fruit drinks that taste like sunshine in a glass). It’s the kind of attention to detail that lets you know somebody back there is cooking with love.

Owner David Resendiz knows a thing or two about that love. Years ago, before Guitarras even existed, he worked in the kitchen of this very same building when it was a different restaurant. His wife? She was a dishwasher right next door. 

Fast forward a few years, and these two not only built a family together, they built a business — one that would eventually become a beloved local favorite.

Guitarras isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a family affair. Their second and third locations were opened so that Mom and Dad could teach their kids how to run a successful business.

David will be the first to tell you: he might be the engine that keeps things running, but his wife is the transmission and the engine only goes where she allows. She’s the backbone, the matriarch and the heartbeat of the family —  the kind of woman every strong family needs.

When it comes to community, the family doesn’t just serve Macon, it loves Macon. One of their locations was opened near a hospital specifically to feed the healthcare heroes who give so much of themselves. And let’s talk about that famous food truck! If you’re a Macon resident, you can request it for your event for free. 

Most food trucks will charge you a setup fee before they even turn the grill on. Not Guitarras. You just invite the folks, and they’ll roll up with the tacos. Because that’s what family does, they show up.

When I asked David why they offer that, his answer hit me straight in the heart.

“During COVID, Maconites came every single day,” he said. “They made sure we stayed in business. Now we do the same for them.” 

That’s love. That’s gratitude. That’s Macon.

David has called this city home for nearly 25 years, and his pride for the community is undeniable. The way he lights up talking about Maconites could make even the spiciest salsa feel mild. His passion is contagious and it’s part of what makes this place so special.

Now let’s talk food. David’s favorite? The Tacos Al Pastor which is marinated pork sliced fresh off the grill, smokey, juicy and served with that perfect little kiss of pineapple. 

Evelin, Guitarras’ social media manager and one of the daughters, swears by the Macon Special, a sizzling platter loaded with steak, chicken and shrimp, all tossed together with grilled onions and peppers and served with warm tortillas so you can build your own masterpiece.

Every bite feels like a trip to abuelita’s kitchen, comforting, soulful and made with love. This isn’t one of those places you rush through. It’s a spot to slow down, share a laugh and enjoy good company. 

Whether it’s a family dinner, a first date or one of those days when only tacos can fix your mood, Guitarras has a seat waiting for you. You’re not just a customer, you’re family… except after dinner, you don’t have to clear the table or do the dishes. 

Until next time fellow Maconites, Let’s Eat! 

Billy Hennessey is the food columnist for The Melody. Write him an email at newlifenkiss@gmail.com.