Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

Last October, a new business opened in Monmouth’s downtown area. La Uvita Feliz, a Mexican restaurant also dishing out classic American cuisine, is now serving the Monmouth community.

Some of the dishes at La Uvita Feliz are heavily influenced by the style of Michoacán cuisine — the birthplace of its owner, Dulce Galvan. Galvan has 20 years of experience working in the food industry. 

According to Galvan, the name “La Uvita Feliz” was taken as inspiration from the restaurant chain in Apatzingán, Michoacán called “La Uvita.” 

“I consider myself a good cook, and from there, the idea of the restaurant arose,” said Galvan.

At La Uvita Feliz, there is something for everyone. Aside from the Mexican dishes, which range from pozole to quesabirria tacos, the menu offers American fare such as burgers and hot dogs, and beverages such as milkshakes and fresh fruit juices. Additionally, to cater to a broader audience, La Uvita Feliz offers both authentic handmade flour and corn tortillas.

For first time customers, Galvan highly recommends the Michoacán dish, chavindecas — a type of quesadilla consisting of two tortillas over cheese and meat. In Michoacán, chavindecas are incredibly popular, with the most popular choice of meat being roast beef.

“If you like handmade tortillas, I always recommend chavindecas (if) it’s your first time,” said Galvan. “Green enchiladas are sold a lot, as well as the enchiladas made out of mole (and) the Michaucán enchiladas, (which is) another dish typical of (Michuacán).” 

La Uvita Feliz prides itself on offering the best of homemade ingredients and service. They are willing to take orders for dishes not currently offered on the menu, such as red enchiladas — made with red chillies rather than green chillies and jalapeños — and more traditional American soups. Additionally, Galvan will happily cater to vegetarian diets by substituting or removing certain ingredients from a dish, if requested.

For students, La Uvita Feliz offers a 10% discount off any item on WOU Wednesdays. However, Galvan is happy to provide students with a discount any time, provided they can show their student ID.

For the time being, Galvan is focusing on garnering a loyal group of clientele and cementing her business in the Monmouth community. She hopes she can amass enough to where she can remodel the restaurant to exhibit more traditional Mexican design elements.

La Uvita Feliz is currently open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m, and is located at 145 Monmouth Avenue. Find their menu and stay updated on Instagram at @lauvi.tafeliz or Facebook at @La Uvita Feliz.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu