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Save Our Spot: Help Us Keep La Hacienda Home

A community staple needs a permanent home—be part of our legacy

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pledged of$300,000 goal
329Days Left
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Campaign Ends on March 19, 2026

Project Description

At La Hacienda, our mission is simple: to create memorable dining experiences that bring people together. We consider our staff and customers an extension of our family, and this sense of belonging and care is reflected in everything we do—from the food we serve to the atmosphere we create. Every visit to La Hacienda is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the joy of sharing great food with even better company.

We are currently seeking crowdfunding to overcome a critical challenge: securing ownership of the property that has been home to La Hacienda for over 50 years. As a cherished staple of the Chico community, we’ve had the privilege of hosting generations as they celebrate life’s milestones. However, without the ability to purchase the property, our future in this location is uncertain. Raising funds for the down payment will ensure La Hacienda remains a permanent fixture in Chico, allowing us to continue serving our community for many more years. Your support will help us preserve a beloved part of our town’s history and ensure we can continue creating lasting memories for future generations.

Chico, CA, is home to a vibrant and diverse dining scene with over 300 establishments, including restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops. We are fortunate to have been serving the community for more than 75 years. Long-time local families form the foundation of what we’ve built, and their unwavering support has allowed us to thrive through the decades. As the community grows, we’re excited to introduce new generations of families to the tradition and warmth that La Hacienda has always offered. The loyalty of our community and our ability to adapt to its growth has solidified La Hacienda’s place as a cherished local institution.

La Hacienda is a female-owned Mexican restaurant serving traditional Mexican dishes, and we are proud to have become a cornerstone of Chico. Our restaurant isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot where generations of families celebrate special moments, from baby showers to memorials. However, our future is at risk without securing ownership of the property.

The funds raised will go directly toward the down payment to purchase the property, ensuring that La Hacienda remains in the heart of our community. With the property secured, we will be able to continue serving our loyal customers and expand the space to better serve future generations. This investment will set us up for long-term success, allowing us to remain a staple in Chico for years to come.

Meet the owners of La Hacienda, Margarita Vega and Michelle Conner. Both started their journey at La Hacienda as servers nearly 20 years ago while in college. Over time, their strong working relationship blossomed into a lasting friendship. When the previous owner decided to retire and sell the restaurant, Margarita and Michelle saw an opportunity they couldn’t pass up.

After working in all positions to learn the restaurant’s inner workings, they began the purchase process in 2011. Since then, they’ve faced and overcome many challenges together, including the devastating wildfires that impacted Butte County and the challenges brought on by COVID-19.

Both are proud mothers—Margarita has five children, while Michelle has one son. Their children, (that are old enough to work,) are also part of the La Hacienda family, contributing to its success and helping keep the family legacy alive. Margarita and Michelle’s dedication to La Hacienda and the Chico community is what keeps this cherished institution thriving.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for taking the time to read our story and support our cause. Your generosity means the world to us and to the entire Chico community. With your help, we are one step closer to securing the future of La Hacienda and continuing our tradition of serving authentic Mexican food for generations to come. We couldn’t do it without you, and we are truly grateful for your belief in our mission and our restaurant. From our family to yours—thank you for helping us keep La Hacienda’s legacy alive!

Updates

The Campaign FAQs

La Hacienda Restaurant was founded in 1948 by Nat and Tomasa Ybanez in Chico, starting with modest means. Over the years, the restaurant has grown into a local favorite, blending secret family recipes with innovative modern creations. As the oldest continuously operated restaurant in Chico, we take great pride in our rich history.

Originally located on Nord Avenue, La Hacienda’s success led Nat and Tomasa to purchase land and build our current location on the Esplanade, where we’ve been serving the community for over 50 years. In the 1970s, Nat and Tomasa passed the restaurant on to their daughter and son-in-law, Betty and Ed Kimball. In 2011, after years of dedication, Ed sold the business to long-time employees Margarita Vega and Michelle Conner.

After 14 years of ownership, the property is now up for sale, and it is Margarita and Michelle’s goal to preserve La Hacienda in its historic location—ensuring this beloved institution remains a cornerstone of Chico’s community for many years to come.

Fascinating Historical Moments from Nearly 8 Decades of La Hacienda's Legacy:

  • 1945: End of World War II – As Nat and Tomasa planned their move to Chico, CA, the war ended, bringing a wave of soldiers back to the U.S.

  • 1948: WHO Founded – The World Health Organization was established, marking a significant moment in global health.

  • 1950s: Rise of Modern Media – From the release of Cinderella (1950) to Sesame Street debuting (1969), entertainment and media were reshaping cultures.

  • 1954: Brown v. Board of Education – The U.S. Supreme Court mandated the end of racial segregation in schools.

  • 1963: "I Have a Dream" Speech – Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic speech during the March on Washington.

  • 1964: Civil Rights Act – A transformative law abolishing segregation in public places.

  • 1969: Space Age Begins – Apollo 8 orbits the moon, marking the first human spaceflight mission beyond Earth.

  • 1974: Women's Financial Freedom – The Equal Credit Opportunity Act allowed women to open bank accounts independently.

  • 1974: World Population Hits 4 Billion – A major milestone in global population growth.

  • 1981: MTV Launches – Changing the music and entertainment landscape with 24/7 music videos.

  • 1991: End of the Cold War – The Berlin Wall falls, leading to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

  • 1997: Birth of Google – Google was founded, revolutionizing how we access information.

  • 2001: 9/11 Attacks – A tragic day in history, forever altering global security and geopolitics.

  • 2004: Facebook Launches – Connecting billions of people worldwide and reshaping social interactions.

  • 2008: Barack Obama Elected – The first African-American president of the U.S., marking a historic moment in civil rights.

  • 2011: World Population Hits 7 Billion – A testament to the increasing global population.

  • 2019: First All-Female Spacewalk – NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Christina Koch make history by conducting the first all-female spacewalk.

  • 2020: COVID-19 Pandemic – A global health crisis that altered daily life and the economy around the world.

  • 2021: Kamala Harris Sworn In – The first female, African-American, and Asian-American vice president in U.S. history.

  • 2022: World Population Reaches 8 Billion – Another significant milestone in global demographics.

  • 2023: Record-Breaking Heat – The hottest year on record, highlighting the growing urgency of addressing climate change.

For over 75 years, La Hacienda has been a cornerstone of our community, standing strong through incredible historical milestones and changes—from the end of World War II to the rise of modern technology. As we celebrate these remarkable moments in history, we’re proud to have been part of Chico's journey. With your support, we look forward to continuing this legacy for another 75 years and beyond!

 

 

Reward image
75.00 USD
Exclusive La Hacienda T-shirt

Show off your love for La Hacienda with one of our exclusive, custom-designed t-shirts! For a $75 donation, you'll receive a stylish t-shirt featuring either our fun "Tacoholic" design or the classic "Peace, Love & Tacos" slogan. Perfect for taco lovers and supporters of La Hacienda, these tees are a great way to wear your pride and spread the love for our tradition of serving delicious, authentic Mexican food. Thank you for helping us secure our future!

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Reward image
2,500.00 USD
Your Name on Our Thank You Placard

As a special thank you for your generous support, we’ll proudly display your name on a dedicated Thank You Placard inside La Hacienda. This lasting tribute will recognize your contribution to our mission and preserve your legacy as a key supporter of our restaurant’s future. You’ll forever be a part of La Hacienda’s history, ensuring that your generosity is remembered by generations of customers. Plus, you'll receive a heartfelt thank you from our team, and we’ll continue to serve you the best traditional Mexican dishes for years to come. Your support means the world to us!

 

Pictured example may vary on style. 

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25.00 USD
Personalized Thank You!

A personalized thank-you note or social media shout-out acknowledging the donor’s support.

500 Left
0 Supporters
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Reward image
125.00 USD
Exclusive La Hacienda Hoodie

Stay cozy and show off your love for La Hacienda with one of our exclusive La Hacienda hoodies! For a $125 donation, you'll receive a stylish hoodie featuring either our fun "Tacoholic" design or the classic "Peace, Love & Tacos" slogan. Perfect for taco lovers who want to represent La Hacienda, these hoodies are as comfortable as they are stylish. 

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0 Supporters
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Reward image
10,000.00 USD
Exclusive: Your Own Parking Spot

As a token of our deepest gratitude for your generous donation of $10,000, we are thrilled to offer you an exclusive reward – a permanent, reserved parking spot right here at La Hacienda! This VIP spot will be yours to enjoy every time you visit, ensuring you always have a convenient and special place to park.

Your donation will help us continue our legacy and serve our wonderful community for many more years to come. We’re excited to honor your incredible support with this exclusive opportunity. Thank you for being a part of La Hacienda’s future!

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0 Supporters
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About the Entrepreneur

Chico, CA
Created 1 Campaign
Business Services

Rewards

Reward image
75.00 USD
Exclusive La Hacienda T-shirt

Show off your love for La Hacienda with one of our exclusive, custom-designed t-shirts! For a $75 donation, you'll receive a stylish t-shirt featuring either our fun "Tacoholic" design or the classic "Peace, Love & Tacos" slogan. Perfect for taco lovers and supporters of La Hacienda, these tees are a great way to wear your pride and spread the love for our tradition of serving delicious, authentic Mexican food. Thank you for helping us secure our future!

200 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
Reward image
2,500.00 USD
Your Name on Our Thank You Placard

As a special thank you for your generous support, we’ll proudly display your name on a dedicated Thank You Placard inside La Hacienda. This lasting tribute will recognize your contribution to our mission and preserve your legacy as a key supporter of our restaurant’s future. You’ll forever be a part of La Hacienda’s history, ensuring that your generosity is remembered by generations of customers. Plus, you'll receive a heartfelt thank you from our team, and we’ll continue to serve you the best traditional Mexican dishes for years to come. Your support means the world to us!

 

Pictured example may vary on style. 

100 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
25.00 USD
Personalized Thank You!

A personalized thank-you note or social media shout-out acknowledging the donor’s support.

500 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
Reward image
125.00 USD
Exclusive La Hacienda Hoodie

Stay cozy and show off your love for La Hacienda with one of our exclusive La Hacienda hoodies! For a $125 donation, you'll receive a stylish hoodie featuring either our fun "Tacoholic" design or the classic "Peace, Love & Tacos" slogan. Perfect for taco lovers who want to represent La Hacienda, these hoodies are as comfortable as they are stylish. 

100 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
Reward image
10,000.00 USD
Exclusive: Your Own Parking Spot

As a token of our deepest gratitude for your generous donation of $10,000, we are thrilled to offer you an exclusive reward – a permanent, reserved parking spot right here at La Hacienda! This VIP spot will be yours to enjoy every time you visit, ensuring you always have a convenient and special place to park.

Your donation will help us continue our legacy and serve our wonderful community for many more years to come. We’re excited to honor your incredible support with this exclusive opportunity. Thank you for being a part of La Hacienda’s future!

4 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward