Ruben Zavaleta’s Journey and the Growth of Guerrero Maya Restaurant

Ruben Zavaleta’s journey from a small town between Mexico City and Acapulco to becoming a successful restaurateur in Maine is a testament to his dedication, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. After attending high school in Atlanta, Ruben moved through North Carolina and Connecticut, gaining valuable experience in the restaurant industry. In 2015, he settled in Maine and opened Guerrero Maya in South Portland, bringing authentic Mexican cuisine to the community.

From the beginning, Ruben has always been passionate about working in restaurants.

While in Connecticut, he was part of a partnership and owned a restaurant which he eventually sold to move to Maine and pursue his dream of owning his own restaurant. He chose Maine because, after researching various locations, it made the most sense for starting his business.

Business has been booming since Guerrero Maya opened in South Portland.

The restaurant quickly became a local favorite for its authentic flavors and warm atmosphere. Ruben saw an opportunity to expand his successful venture. Initially, he considered Kittery a potential location for a new restaurant. However, after further research, he realized Sanford offered a unique opportunity. Nothing was similar to what he would be offering in that area, making it an ideal location for his next Guerrero Maya restaurant.

The new Guerrero Maya location in Sanford opened in July.

Because many local competitors are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, Ruben decided to stay open seven days a week. This strategic move has helped him capture a larger market share and attract more new customers.

Bangor Savings Bank played a crucial role in facilitating Ruben’s expansion. They introduced him to the Southern Maine Finance Agency (SMFA), beginning a smooth and efficient process. With the guidance of Wayne and Will from SMFA, Ruben navigated the complexities of securing support for his new venture.

SMFA’s direct involvement was instrumental in making the necessary support available to Ruben, enabling him to move forward with his expansion plans. The collaboration between SMFA and Bangor Savings Bank ensured that every aspect was handled efficiently, allowing Ruben to focus on his business.

With the support of SMFA and Bangor Savings Bank, Ruben’s dream of expanding Guerrero Maya has become a reality.

The new Sanford location is not just a business expansion, it’s proof that Ruben’s hard work, determination, and robust support system has helped him achieve his goals.

For those pursuing similar goals, Ruben’s journey highlights the importance of leveraging local resources, engaging with community financing services, and staying focused on one’s objectives. His success is both a personal victory and a boon to now two community culinary scenes.

Learn more about Guerrero Maya