Juan's Bar & Grill opened in April 2021 in the former South 40/South Bar location. Owner Juan Gomez initially found success operating a taco truck in the late 2010s. Gomez's business has now evolved into a 6 day a week restaurant and bar. Right now, Juan's Bar & Grill is operating solely out of the bar side of his restaurant but Gomez eventually hopes to fix up the banquet hall on the north side of the building in order to create a more family friendly environment. Be sure to stop in to try Juan's tacos, mouthwatering burgers & fries, and a cold drink! Juan's is open every day of the week except Tuesdays (scroll to the bottom for hours of operation and a link to the menu).
Juan's Bar & Grill owner Juan Gomez moved to Red Cloud in 2007. Gomez worked at Gottsch Feedyard as a feed truck driver and feed load operator before deciding to commit fully to his dream of owning and operating a restaurant in 2021. Gomez has 3 children: Alazaye, Zanthony, and Kayzen.
What is your favorite thing about Red Cloud?
The community is supportive and full of good people
You recently opened Juan's Bar & Grill after spending years working out a Gottsch Feedyard. What made you decide to open a bar & grill? And why did you want to open a business in Red Cloud?
I have lived in Red Cloud for 14 years and feel like it is my home. Back before I opened the restaurant, I started cooking at home and enjoyed it so I decided to get the Taco Truck. That went well and I have always wanted to own my own business--I felt that there was a need for an additional restaurant so I bought the South 40 and now I have Juan's Bar & Grill. I feel this place is a way I can give back to the community.
I am excited about being a business owner in Red Cloud and I look forward to our community thriving!
What are some of your favorite businesses to shop at in Red Cloud? Why?
They are all my favorite. Since we live in a small town, the various businesses are all needed for me to run my businesses.
Is there anything you wish people knew about Juan's Bar & Grill?
I wish all the people would come and try my famous tacos and all the other great food!
I have always wanted to own my own business--I felt that there was a need for an additional restaurant so I bought the South 40 and now I have Juan's Bar & Grill. I feel this place is a way I can give back to the community.
What is the biggest lesson you have learned since opening your business?
It is very difficult to find help.
If you could have a superpower what would it be and why?
I don't want any super power--I just want people to come to the restaurant and enjoy great food!
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d like to share?
I love to spend time with my kids and go fishing. I also enjoy doing yardwork when I can find the time.
Do you have a favorite movie?
What would your high school teachers or guidance counselor say about you if we asked?
That I could have applied myself more.
What are you most proud of?
My children
Do you have a mantra or mission statement you live by?
To do the best that I can
What historical figure or celebrity would you most like to have dinner with? Why?
Paul Walker--he was a great actor!
Do you have any advice for someone looking to relocate to rural Nebraska?
Choose Red Cloud!
I love to spend time with my kids and go fishing. I also enjoy doing yardwork when I can find the time.
What is your favorite song?
"Mercy," by Brett Young
Who is your favorite writer and/or thinker?
George Washington
What is your dream vacation?
I would like to go to Spain
What’s your favorite place to visit in Nebraska?
Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha
Who has been the biggest influence in your life? Explain why.
My dad--he's the best man in the whole world!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I am excited about being a business owner in Red Cloud and I look forward to our community thriving!
Credits:
Juan Gomez and Sheryl McCracken. Juan's Bar & Grill logo design by Cheyenne Knehans for Red Cloud Heritage Tourism Development