The founder
In 1973, Larry Forehand opened the first Casa Olé in Pasadena, Texas, serving Mexican food with a family-first spirit.
A Vision Worth Building
Meet the Man Who Started It All
Before Casa Olé, Larry worked his way through the restaurant business, learning the craft from the inside out. When he decided to build a restaurant of his own, he knew exactly what he wanted it to feel like—a place centered around delicious food, genuine hospitality, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
That vision became the first Casa Olé in Pasadena in 1973. What began with one restaurant quickly grew, with a second location opening in Houston in 1976 and the Casa Olé franchise system taking shape by 1978.
The Man Behind the Table
It Was Always about People
The heart of Larry’s vision was never simply about serving a plate of food. It was about creating a place where people could sit down, enjoy a great meal, share a few laughs, and feel at home. That simple philosophy became part of the Casa Olé experience and helped shape the brand for generations.
More than five decades later, Larry’s original vision continues to influence the way Casa Olé serves its guests and communities across Texas.
Where the Story Began
The Founder’s Journey with Monterey’s Still Lives on Today
Before creating Casa Olé, founder Larry Forehand began building his restaurant career with Monterey’s Little Mexico. That early experience became an important chapter in his journey, and today, the connection continues through Casina Hospitality, bringing Monterey’s and Casa Olé together under the same family of restaurants.
A Legacy That Keeps Growing
From one restaurant in Pasadena to Casa Olé locations across Texas, Larry Forehand’s vision has given generations of guests a place to gather over the Tex-Mex favorites they love.
