By  Matthew Phillips 

Rike’s, a family-owned Mexican restaurant in Troy, is preparing for a major expansion with two exciting developments underway. Known for its fresh, handmade food and strong ties to the local community, the restaurant is both relocating to a larger space and opening a brand-new dining concept downtown. 

The current Rike’s Tacos Prehispanic Mexican store location will relocate later this year to a much larger space on South Brundidge Street in the former Mr. Ho’s building, moving from its small building along Elba Highway next to the Texaco gas station. The new space will allow for greater seating capacity and a broader menu, including a planned breakfast menu that blends American and traditional pre-Hispanic Mexican dishes.

“We’ve wanted to offer something unique that Troy doesn’t currently have. We grew up eating these kinds of breakfasts. At first, people might not recognize the dishes, but once they try them, they thoroughly enjoy the flavors,” said Anthony Tzanahua, a family member and employee of Rike’s Tacos. 

While the move to the new Rike’s location is expected by the end of the year, the family is also launching a second restaurant, Rike’s Burgers and Brew, which will open even sooner.

Located at 72 N Court Square in downtown Troy, the location where Bayou la Roux once sat, Rike’s Burgers and Brew is set to open within the next month. This new restaurant will focus on bold, Southern-inspired burgers made with quality ingredients and a flavor-forward approach.

“My brother and I have always loved burgers,” said the co-owner. “We’re using 100% ragu in the meat, with two smashed patties per burger and roughly a full half-pound of meat. It’s simple, but it’s packed with flavor,” Tzanahua said. 

Rike’s Burgers and Brew will be open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The restaurant will be closed on Sundays.

Exact hours for the relocated Rike’s on South Brundidge Street will be announced later this year as preparations for the move continue.

The business is a true family effort, run by Tzunahua’s family. Each member plays a hands-on role in daily operations and contributes to the restaurant’s unique recipes.

“Our mom has been the foundation for all of this. Since we were little, she taught us the values that now guide the business. Each of us contributes unique elements to the business, which is what makes it successful,” Tzanahua recalled. 

Over the years, the Troy community has rallied behind Rike’s, supporting its commitment to culture and tradition.

“The support we’ve received really keeps us going,” he said. “We love being able to share our food and our culture in a place like Troy,” Tzanahua added. 

Looking forward, the family has bigger goals for the Rike’s name.

“We’d love to grow it into a recognizable brand. It’s a unique name, and it always sparks conversation about how to pronounce it. That kind of identity is special, and we want to build on that,” Tzanahua said. 

With one restaurant on the move and another about to launch, the Rike’s family is laying the foundation for a new chapter, and it is one that stays true to their roots while expanding their reach.