From Struggle to Standout w/ Rashid Rashid :: Ep 67 The Lyndsay Stafford Show
Tue Feb 03 2026
On this episode of The Lyndsay Stafford Show, Lyndsay sits down with Rashid, owner of Mexicali Grill in Brentwood, to unpack how he turned a tough industry into a thriving, fan-favorite restaurant.
Rashid shares how obsessing over fresh, real ingredients, perfecting the Martha Margarita, and refusing to cut corners on quality has created a loyal following. He explains why he stays deeply involved in both front and back of house, how he trains his team for consistency and high energy, and why growing too big, too fast can ruin a great concept.
Lyndsay and Rashid also talk about the real sacrifices of ownership, what it means to wear every hat in the business, and how Mexicali Grill is leveling up its brand, website, and marketing as word-of-mouth continues to explode.
Highlights:
How the Martha Margarita started it all
Why Rashid never sacrifices quality to save costs
Training for consistency: from seasoning and grilling to guest experience
The power of a high-energy, positive atmosphere
The risks of over-expansion and losing quality
What’s next for Mexicali Grill’s brand and growth
Whether you’re a restaurant owner, a small business leader, or simply someone who appreciates great food and even better service, this conversation will challenge how you think about quality, leadership, and growth. Tune in to hear Rasheed’s hard-earned lessons from the floor of Mexicali Grill—and walk away inspired to raise the bar in your own business.
Follow Rashid:
https://www.mexicaligrillbrentwood.com/
#TheLyndsayStaffordShow #MexicaliGrill #MexicaliGrillBrentwood #RestaurantOwner #RestaurantLife #SmallBusinessOwner #QualityOverQuantity #CustomerExperience #FoodieFavorites #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #SupportLocal #BrentwoodTN
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On this episode of The Lyndsay Stafford Show, Lyndsay sits down with Rashid, owner of Mexicali Grill in Brentwood, to unpack how he turned a tough industry into a thriving, fan-favorite restaurant. Rashid shares how obsessing over fresh, real ingredients, perfecting the Martha Margarita, and refusing to cut corners on quality has created a loyal following. He explains why he stays deeply involved in both front and back of house, how he trains his team for consistency and high energy, and why growing too big, too fast can ruin a great concept. Lyndsay and Rashid also talk about the real sacrifices of ownership, what it means to wear every hat in the business, and how Mexicali Grill is leveling up its brand, website, and marketing as word-of-mouth continues to explode. Highlights: How the Martha Margarita started it all Why Rashid never sacrifices quality to save costs Training for consistency: from seasoning and grilling to guest experience The power of a high-energy, positive atmosphere The risks of over-expansion and losing quality What’s next for Mexicali Grill’s brand and growth Whether you’re a restaurant owner, a small business leader, or simply someone who appreciates great food and even better service, this conversation will challenge how you think about quality, leadership, and growth. Tune in to hear Rasheed’s hard-earned lessons from the floor of Mexicali Grill—and walk away inspired to raise the bar in your own business. Follow Rashid: https://www.mexicaligrillbrentwood.com/ #TheLyndsayStaffordShow #MexicaliGrill #MexicaliGrillBrentwood #RestaurantOwner #RestaurantLife #SmallBusinessOwner #QualityOverQuantity #CustomerExperience #FoodieFavorites #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #SupportLocal #BrentwoodTN