What is the Key to Eduardo Rodríguez Gallo’s Success?
AK Burger Zone, Greens Bar & Grill, C&J’s Drive-In, and Pronto Pasta are the ventures of Mexican-born Eduardo Rodriguez Gallo, who, at 38 years old, is competing with major burger chains and fine-dining restaurants in Fairbanks and Anchorage.
In 2024, readers of the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner awarded Greens first place as the best upscale restaurant. It is located at the Fairbanks Golf Course. This restaurant and the golf club were envisioned by Rodriguez to provide an alternative for golfers and those who want to learn the sport. Burger Zone started in 2020 at The Gas Line gas station (now Steese Gas). “I love burgers, and I didn’t like a single one in Fairbanks. So, I decided to open an AK Burger Zone,” said Rodriguez. Despite the pandemic, Rodriguez kept the business open. “It was a success from day one. We sell 500 burgers a day. Our burger is Certified Black Angus Beef, which means it meets high-quality standards. In 2024, we opened our own location, and last August, we opened our Anchorage branch.” Burger Zone’s most popular hamburger is the “Heart Attack,” which consists of a hamburger, bacon, and brisket. C & J’s Drive-In offers American food with classic milkshakes. Last October 4, Pronto Pasta opened its doors, offering Italian fast food in Fairbanks. “My uncle Abraham Gallo, owner of Gallo’s Mexican Restaurant and Taco King, is the reason my whole family is in Alaska. He was the one who immigrated first and offered his help. I arrived in Anchorage at 16, hungry to advance. Little by little, I grew up working in restaurants until I became the manager of Gallo’s Restaurant in Fairbanks. That experience paved my way in business.” He also owns a construction and remodeling company. When talking about his ventures, Rodriguez emphasizes that “when you have the desire to improve, you look for possibilities and something that will be successful. For example, in Fairbanks, we have few upscale restaurants, so I built a modern and fresh building for Greens.” Rodriguez believes that discipline, hard work, and perseverance are essential for never giving up in business. His companies employ 70 people. Rodriguez is married to Fátima Munoz Reynoso and has three children. They reside in Anchorage. |