Damien Ribaldone launches Mackay, Whitsundays first Guzman y Gomez

The Greater Whitsundays first Guzman y Gomez is set to launch with $5 burritos and bowls on its grand opening, and pineapple margaritas.

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay with $5 burritos.

A popular Mexican inspired fast food chain is coming in the Greater Whitsundays, offering $5 burritos on the first day.

Guzman y Gomez is a popular Mexican franchise established in Sydney in 2006, and is opening in Mackay on September 5.

Damien and his wife Emily Ribaldone are the franchisees of the Greater Whitsundays first Guzman y Gomez. Photo: Fergus Gregg

Franchisee and Mackay native Damien Ribaldone said he’d been wanting to move back to Mackay for sometime but wanted to come back with “something great”.

That was Guzman y Gomez, which Mr Ribaldone calls “the best food on the planet”.

“Our food is free from preservatives, it’s free from artificial colours and flavours,” Mr Ribaldone said.

“We always strive to give the freshest, tastiest food.”

Mr Ribaldone’s recommendation to customers is the Cali burrito. Photo: Supplied

The biggest challenge in getting the new franchise off the ground has been staffing, as it took them longer tha

n anticipated to find and train their team.

Now they have 75 employees ranging from school age to adults trained and prepared for the big launch, and are still looking for more.

“We’re still looking for people, particularly in the age bracket of 16 to 21 years old,” Mr Ribaldone said.

“We still need people working during the day and the closing shift.”

Guzman y Gomez has its own unique artwork in the drive-through lane inspired by Mexican culture. Photo: Fergus Gregg

For their grand opening Guzman y Gomez will be offering burritos and bowels for just $5, but Mr Ribaldone is excited for Mackay to try other menu items.

“Try a chicken Cali burrito with queso, which is the cheese sauce,” Mr Ribaldone recommended.

“Absolutely beautiful.”

For real lovers of spice, he recommends trying the habanero sauce.

Guzman y Gomez Mount Pleasant is a licensed venue so dine-in customers will also be able to order corona beer, pure blonde cider or pineapple margaritas with their meal.

“The key message is we’re finally here,” Mr Ribaldone said.
The team is new … so please be patient.

“We really look forward to embracing GYG with you and look forward to your support.”
Guzman y Gomez is located at 54 Phillip St, Mount Pleasant and will open from 7am – 10pm on the first day.