Ismael Pantoja (center) receives a Small Business of the Month award from 6th District Congressman Ami Bera (fourth from right.) The award recognizes Pantoja’s two restaurants. Carmichael Chamber of Commerce director Brad Sanborn (third from left) and restaurant staff celebrate the award. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A ‘Small Business of the Month’ award was a cherry on the margarita for Ismael Pantoja, whose two Fair Oaks Boulevard eateries are staples of Carmichael life.

The trophy came unannounced, during a Sept. 1 visit to Cantina Azteca by 6th District Congressman Dr. Ami Bera and staffers.

“They took me by surprise,” beamed Pantoja, “This was a fantastic honor. Some customers recognized him (Bera), so we felt we had a VIP guest. We gave him our famous frozen blackberry margarita. He said he loved it.”

A known fan of spicy food, the Congressman said Pantoja’s Cantina Azteca was an example of “the small businesses that make Sacramento such a great place.”

“Ismael is also a generous pillar of the community,” Bera continued.  "Your two restaurants are an important part of Carmichael.”

Established 21 years ago, Pantoja’s tiny Rey Azteca taqueria became a neighborhood favorite. The owner expanded dining space -- yards down the boulevard -- in 2016. His Cantina Azteca was lauded for 'Best Tacos in Town' by 2025 Best of Carmichael voters.

Pantoja last year decreed a rebrand for his original space.

“After the pandemic, it made no sense to have two Mexican restaurants competing with each other,” he told Congressman Bera. “I decided to separate breakfast from our Cantina Azteca menu and open the old restaurant for brunch.”

Some Mexican dishes add fragrance to Pantoja’s intimate Brunch Corner. But an eclectic menu includes Californian favorites.  “We’re continuing our family tradition,” said Pantoja.  “We’re still blending great flavors with lots of love.”

Azteca Cantina is located at 6400 Fair Oaks Blvd. Brunch Corner is at 6140 Fair Oaks Blvd., Carmichael.