Ganzo's started in 1964 as a food stand operated at the Mississippi Valley Fair by John and Frances Puente. They cooked their own family recipes, served up large portions and found it popular enough to start a restaurant that is still going under the direction of a third generation.

Patrick Puente, John Puente's grandson, still serves up large portions while keeping the prices for most meals less than $9.

"We load the food up, almost too much sometimes. But that's the way it all started," he said. "My grandparents, they wanted everyone to leave full and happy, so that's the way it has always been."

It's those family recipes, including a special enchilada sauce, that Puente says set Ganzo's apart from other Mexican restaurants.

"I think it's a special aspect that we have compared to other restaurants that we have the ability to keep it going," he said, "to keep the family traditions and values."

The enchilada sauce that has always been the same is what James Jones of Rock Island appreciates about Ganzo's. He's been coming to the restaurant with his stepfather for several years, and the enchilada is his favorite dish. Jones especially likes the large portion sizes he gets for a decent price.

"You can get a nice meal for under $10," he added. "It's quality, it's pretty good quality food here. That's why I keep coming back."

Besides enchiladas, Ganzo's most popular dish is the fajitas, which can be ordered with beans, rice, guacamole and tortillas for $6.99 during the lunch hour.

"We try to keep the prices down so that everybody can afford it and come here and have a good time and, like I said, leave full and happy," Puente said.