Note: The details of the following story are derived from “Acapulco Joe’s: One Proud Gringo” by Vesle Fernstermaker, as published on the back of the menus at Acapulco Joe’s Mexican Restaurant.

The Story of Joe Rangel: A Mexican Immigrant Achieving the American Dream

The inspiring story of Joe Rangel, the founder of Indianapolis’ Acapulco Joe’s Mexican Restaurant, showcases the incredible determination of a Mexican immigrant who courageously sought the American dream. After numerous attempts to cross the Rio Grande and even facing time in a U.S. prison, Rangel found himself in Indianapolis, where he established one of the city’s most beloved Mexican dining experiences.

Humble Beginnings

Born into poverty in 1925 in a small Mexican town, Joe embarked on a relentless quest for the American dream. His life story serves as both an inspiration and a poignant reminder of the privileges that many in America often overlook.

Beginning his journey at age 13, Joe took on various odd jobs—ranging from a mortician’s assistant to laboring in the fields for a meager 37.5 cents an hour. Nevertheless, he never waivered in his aspiration for a better life in the land of opportunity.

Making Progress — with a Prison Stop

Throughout his efforts, Joe attempted to cross the Rio Grande six times, facing rejection and return each time. On his seventh attempt, he encountered a setback that led to a 9-month prison sentence in a Missouri penitentiary. Upon his release, he undertook a seven-night journey, avoiding immigration officials, until he reached Corpus Christi, Texas. There, he secured a job as a busboy in a Greek restaurant, working tirelessly for $50 a week, before learning of a waitstaff opportunity in Minneapolis. However, a ticketing error at the bus station directed him to Indianapolis instead.

“Beautiful Country, Wonderful People”

Once in Indianapolis, Rangel discovered a dilapidated diner for sale on Illinois Street and was driven to purchase it. To his astonishment, a friend offered him a $5,000 loan, underscoring the kindness he often remarked upon, saying, “Beautiful country, wonderful people.”

This marked the beginning of what became one of the favorite dining spots in the city: Acapulco Joe’s. Not only did his friend receive his money back, but Rangel expressed his gratitude by providing meals nearly every day.

Pursuing U.S. Citizenship

The next chapter of Joe’s American story was his pursuit of citizenship. Traveling back to Mexico to resolve his legal status, he discovered it would cost him $500 to “fix his papers.” Once again, his friends in Indianapolis stepped in to assist him, prompting Joe to reflect with gratitude on the generosity of those around him, exclaiming, “Wonderful country, wonderful people.”

In 1971, after much anticipation, Joe became a naturalized U.S. citizen. To celebrate, he proudly hung a sign outside his café declaring, “Hear ye! I, Joe Rangel, became a U.S. citizen. Now I’m a proud Gringo and can raise hell about my taxes like any other citizen. Come in and share my bliss.” Hundreds of locals joined in the celebration, raising glasses of champagne to toast his achievement.

The Legend Lives on

Though Joe passed away in 1989, the legacy of Acapulco Joe’s continues to flourish. Each day at noon, a recording of Kate Smith’s “God Bless America” resonates throughout the restaurant, capturing the deep affection Joe held for his adopted homeland and his unwavering commitment to embracing the American experience.