Our Story

A tale of family tradition, authentic flavor, and the legendary cowboy who started it all

Our Mission

To honor the legacy of José Madrid by crafting authentic New Mexico-style salsas that bring families and communities together around the table, one jar at a time.

We believe that great food creates lasting memories, builds relationships, and celebrates the rich traditions that make us who we are.

Our Journey Through Time

From a small-town restaurant to a beloved regional brand, every step of our journey has been guided by family values and authentic flavor

1942

Family Business Begins

Mike's paternal grandparents opened a butcher shop and grocery store in Zanesville, Ohio, starting the family's food business tradition.

1976

Zak's Restaurant Opens

Mike Zakany and his brother opened Zak's Restaurant in downtown Zanesville, serving New Mexico-style Mexican cuisine.

1987

Jose Madrid Salsa Born

Named after Mike's legendary grandfather from Clovis, New Mexico, Jose Madrid Salsa was created to meet growing demand.

1988

First Commercial Sales

Jose Madrid Salsa made its debut in gourmet and grocery stores during the Christmas season.

Today

25+ Flavors & Growing

From our Ohio base, we continue to grow with 25+ unique flavors, serving customers across America through retail, online, and fundraising.

What We Stand For

Our values guide everything we do, from recipe development to customer service

Family Tradition

Every recipe honors the culinary heritage passed down from José Madrid, keeping family traditions alive in every jar.

Quality Ingredients

We use only premium ingredients, from California Pear tomatoes to authentic New Mexico chiles, ensuring exceptional flavor.

Community First

Supporting local communities through fundraising programs, farmer partnerships, and direct customer relationships.

Authentic Flavor

True to our New Mexico roots, we maintain the complex, authentic flavors that made José Madrid's cooking legendary.

Our Commitment to Quality

Premium Ingredients

California Pear tomatoes, authentic New Mexico chiles, and carefully sourced spices create our complex, authentic flavors.

Traditional Methods

We honor José Madrid's culinary traditions while using modern techniques to ensure consistency and quality in every batch.

Every jar represents our unwavering commitment to the authentic flavors and quality that made José Madrid's cooking legendary.

Proud Achievements

Milestones that reflect our dedication to quality, innovation, and community

First four-pepper salsa in the United States
Award-winning fruit salsa line with national recognition
35+ years of continuous family operation
Hundreds of successful fundraising partnerships
Growing retail presence across the Midwest
Thousands of satisfied customers nationwide

Looking to the Future

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to the values and traditions that have guided us from the beginning. José Madrid's legacy lives on in every jar, and we're excited to share his authentic flavors with even more families and communities.

Innovation

Developing new flavors while honoring traditional recipes

Community

Expanding partnerships with schools, organizations, and retailers

Family

Keeping family traditions alive for future generations

Join Our Story

Whether you're a longtime customer or discovering us for the first time, you become part of the Jose Madrid Salsa family with every jar.