El Rancho Grande is no ordinary Mexican restaurant. With a rich history of serving authentic Mexican cuisine in Tulsa from the same location for over 70 years—most of those under the ownership and watchful eye of the Walden family—there was a great deal at stake in ensuring a successful transition to new ownership.
“When John Walden decided it was time to retire, he came to us to help find the right buyer. We immediately recognized both the privilege and the responsibility of the opportunity,” said Tulsa Market Area President John Sherrill. “We knew it would take an extraordinary buyer—someone with industry experience and a big personality—to carry the legacy forward.”
“Thankfully, within months—and by the grace of God—we found a match made in heaven,” John continued. That match was Jay Park, who had recently sold the last of his six successful Jimmy John’s restaurants. Jay was looking for the right opportunity to stay local, put down roots, and apply the experience he had gained over the previous 13 years. He and John Walden connected right away, and a deal was made.
CBI Tulsa successfully facilitated the sale and transition to new ownership, ensuring that the legacy of El Rancho Grande continues for generations to come.
