03/10/2026
Member Spotlight: Luis Pedraza — Owner of Luca Italian Restaurant & Morelia Mexican Restaurant
Today we are excited to spotlight a true example of grit, gratitude, and community spirit: Luis Pedraza, owner of Luca Italian Restaurant and Morelia Mexican Restaurant in Prince George.
Luis came to the United States from Mexico at just 13 years old, not speaking a word of English. His first nights were spent sleeping on the floor of a small trailer.
He soon began working as a dishwasher at Giuseppe’s Restaurant, where a man named Alfredo took him under his wing and taught him how to cook. Luis worked hard, learned fast, and never stopped pushing forward. After graduating high school, he worked seven days a week, picking up lawn‑cutting jobs on his time off to save every dollar he could.
In 2010, Luis invested every dime he had to purchase Luca Italian Restaurant. A few years later, he renovated that space and opened Morelia, transforming his dream into a thriving pair of hometown favorites.
Today, Luis owns eight restaurants, including two co-owned with partners. Despite all his success, Luis remains humble. He credits everything to God.
Luis treats his team like family, and it shows—he has remarkably low turnover, especially rare in the restaurant industry. He also made the heartfelt decision to close on Sundays so his staff could attend church, rest, and spend time with their loved ones.
Luis has also become a community champion in more than just the US. Here in Prince George, he supports so many causes, from school fundraiser to those in need. He even rallied local businesses during COVID to provide more than 1,000 meals twice a week to families in need. He continues that same spirit of giving in his hometown in Mexico, supporting those who need it most.
Luis Pedraza is not only a successful entrepreneur—he is a leader, mentor, and servant-hearted community champion. Join us in celebrating Luis for his resilience, faith, and commitment to Prince George and beyond!