Iliana Marquez

A love letter to food, family, and community

In the heart of Rockwall, two unique culinary destinations tell a story of love, legacy, and the power of homemade food. Belle Vie Bistro and Los Marquez Tacos, both owned by Luis and Iliana Marquez, are more than restaurants — they’re reflections of a journey rooted in passion, heritage, and perseverance.

Iliana Marquez’s love for food started early, inspired by her mother’s cooking back in Mexico. “She would cook all day, and my dad owned a small shop where he sold the sweet bread my mom baked,” Iliana recalls. Her family’s migration to the U.S. when she was just 13 shaped her identity — and later, her career path.

Iliana met Luis in Bossier City, Louisiana, at the age of 18. At the time, Luis was traveling for work with a major breakfast company. His extensive experience in the food industry, including mentorship under a French chef, would later play a pivotal role in their business ventures. “We always knew that one day we wanted to open something of our own and share everything we had — family recipes and all,” Iliana says.

In 2019, the Marquezes took the leap and opened a food truck in Lavon, Texas. It began with breakfast sandwiches, but the local community’s hunger for authentic Mexican food quickly shaped their offerings. “People kept asking, ‘Are you bringing tacos?’” Iliana laughs. That shift marked the birth of Los Marquez Tacos.

Located in north Rockwall, Los Marquez Tacos is a celebration of tradition. Handmade tortillas, birria tacos dipped in rich broth, empanadas, fajitas, and quesadillas have made the eatery a local favorite. “Our most popular item is definitely the birria tacos,” Iliana notes. “They’re made from scratch, and people love that.”

Just 10 minutes south in downtown Rockwall, Belle Vie Bistro offers a completely different experience. Inspired by Luis’s training under a French pastry chef, the bistro focuses on breakfast and lunch — with a French twist. “We do everything from scratch — crepes, French toast, paninis, and even the hamburger buns,” Iliana says proudly. The same chef continues to mentor them, especially when it comes to baking. “He’s still very much part of our journey,” she adds.

The two establishments may differ in cuisine, but they share the same foundation: heart. “The best thing about being in business with my husband,” Iliana reflects, “is combining each other’s recipes and bringing people together. When we see our customers enjoying something we made with love — that’s the most rewarding part.”

Together, Iliana and Luis have built more than two successful restaurants — they’ve created community hubs where culture, food, and family converge. Belle Vie Bistro and Los Marquez Tacos are more than businesses; they are expressions of a shared dream that continues to nourish the Rockwall community — one taco, one crepe, and one smile at a time.