Baltazar Nunez is helping to carry the torch for his late boss. (By Frank Sabatini Jr.)

Jimmy Carter’s in Hillcrest Presses Ahead After Owner’s Passing

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

Many are inquiring about the future of Jimmy Carter’s Mexican Cafe since the business lost its beloved namesake owner, who died in late August at the age of 82. The eatery has been a staple for all-day Mexican fare and cocktails ever since Carter opened the place in 1991.

The good news is that the restaurant will continue operating unchanged in the spirit of Carter, who left the business in the hands of four managers.

Among them is Baltazar Nunez, a devoted front-of-the-house employee entrusted to maintain the restaurant’s cheerful hospitality customers have come to know.

“We are doing okay. Things are running smoothly,” he said of the transition. “We might eventually move to a plan that gives all of the employees some ownership.”

Nunez assured that the recipes will remain the same, including those for the feisty salsas, slow-cooked meats, and the popular house-made chile rellenos made with poblano peppers.

Carter was a resident of nearby Mission Hills, and no relation to the late President Jimmy Carter. He was known for his warm, sociable personality and the nurturing approach he took with his employees.

“Jimmy could have retired 20 years ago. But because he was such a nice guy, he kept this place open to keep us all employed,” Nunez added.