Erin and Josh Lucero blend Southwestern flavors, family roots and culinary creativity.
A new twist on an old staple is taking frybread to a whole new level of flavor, with savory and sweet toppings and a colorful blend of the Southwest.
FryMex, which originated as a food truck, is now also a brick-and-mortar restaurant, and owners Erin and Josh Lucero say they are living their culinary dream. “We love food and wanted to bring a fresh, modern twist to frybread by combining it with bold Southwestern flavors made with premium ingredients and made-to-order quality,” said Erin. “We also wanted to honor our Northern Arizona and New Mexico roots.”
“Every detail matters to us, and we wanted to create an experience that people will remember,” said Josh.
Erin, who was born and raised in Flagstaff, says her love for food started at the Route 66 Dog Haus. “I worked there for a long time and then moved to Safeway, where I worked as deli manager for almost 10 years. I believe that everything has a purpose and I’ve brought a lot of experience to FryMex. Working as a deli manager was much like managing a restaurant.”
More than just a place to eat, the couple says FryMex is about bringing people together. “We’re passionate about serving our community, supporting local businesses and creating a welcoming place where everyone feels at home,” said Josh.
Josh was born in Las Vegas and moved to Flagstaff when he was 5. At age 17, he moved to Alamogordo, New Mexico, where he lived for two years. His background is in restaurant and construction work.
“I’ve always had culinary inspiration in my roots and I love to cook; it’s a big part of me. At one time I worked with Native Americans and learned to love their cuisine. To bring their food together with Southwestern cooking has always been a dream of mine, and now it’s come to life.”
While searching for a location to open FryMex, a mutual friend introduced the Luceros to Kyle McCain, owner of PuttTek, who had space at his eastside business. “It was the perfect match,” said Josh. “The Flagstaff community has taken advantage of group meetings and events here that include a game of miniature golf and a meal.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Erin and Josh to bring FryMex to PuttTek,” said McCain. “Growing up in Southeastern Arizona, I’ve loved fry bread since childhood, and my family and I are obsessed with the food at FryMex. They have an incredible take on New Mexican cuisine using frybread, not only as a delicious entrée option but also across multiple dessert items.”
He says working with Josh and Erin has been a joy. “Their positive attitude and true spirit of helpfulness make this partnership a natural fit as our businesses grow together.”
FryMex line cook Caleb Pulley says he feels like he is part of something big. “I just love it here and the business is run well,” he said. “They do not cut corners and Josh and Erin treat their employees like family. They are sticklers about cleanliness and customers are always raving about the food. Along with the frybread entrees, The Walking Tacos are also very popular.”
Another FryMex local favorite is the FryBread Taco with ground Wagyu beef. “We just added New Mexican Green Chili pork as a protein to our FryBread Taco as well,” said Erin.
Outside their food business, Josh and Erin are busy with five children, ages 1 to 15. “We’re building an experience not just in Flagstaff, but within the community that made us who we are today,” said Josh. FBN
By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN
The restaurant is located inside PuttTek at 3126 East Route 66. The FryMex food truck is used for catering and private events. For more information, go to frymex.com or call 928-707-3453.
Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography: Blending Native and Mexican cuisine, Josh and Erin Lucero have made frybread the foundation for both desserts and entrees.
Dining and Cooking