Sagebrush Cantina: Spicing Things Up Since 1996

Sagebrush Cantina began with a simple idea: to serve the freshest Mexican food in a great atmosphere, and really do it right. Founded in the historic downtown area of Lake Orion, Michigan, brothers and experienced restaurateurs, Dia and Safa Zaraga, saw great potential in what was then the “Polish Princess” – a busy location on South Broadway with a history dating back to the early 1900s.

Through hard work and determination, a “Princess” was transformed into one of Oakland County’s hidden gems: a Mexican restaurant considered by those in the know to be the best in Michigan, renown for its huge portions of signature Mexican cuisine, outstanding service, and great atmosphere.

The early days weren’t easy, and the Zaraga brothers admit that many people thought they were crazy at first. But with a dedicated staff and the support of the Village of Lake Orion, they stayed their course – insisting on the freshest ingredients, making their own salsa, tortilla chips, dressings and sauces fresh every day, and focusing on the little details that kept people coming back. Of course, their soon-to-be-famous Margaritas and extensive Tequila selection didn’t hurt the cause, either.

Before long, Sagebrush’s reputation began to spread, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Unfortunately, success doesn’t come without its share of challenges, and on a dark, dark morning in March of 2004, Sagebrush Cantina and several surrounding buildings were devastated by fire.

While the faithful patiently awaited a bigger and better Sagebrush Lake Orion, the Zaraga brothers opened a second Sagebrush in nearby Fenton, Michigan, acquiring the Fenton Roadhouse in June of 2004. Mexican food has never been the same in Fenton, ever since.

Finally, after two long years of planning and construction, a brand new Sagebrush Lake Orion re-opened to much fanfare in December 2006. With over 18,000 sq. ft., the new Sagebrush Lake Orion features a 30-foot bar, 16 beers on draft at all times, and undoubtedly Michigan’s largest Tequila selection.

Yet for all its success, Sagebrush Cantina is still the same family-owned and operated business founded by two brothers in 1996. Today, Dia and Safa Zaraga continue their dedication to serving the best Mexican food with outstanding service, great atmosphere, and uncompromising attention to detail.

We hope you’ll agree that Sagebrush Cantina is The Best Mexican Restaurant in Michigan!