Molina's Cantina was one of President George H.W. Bush's favorite restaurants

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - "He's been coming here, if I'm not mistaken, for over 40 years," said Maria Sanchez, the general manager of Molina's Cantina.

Former President George H.W. Bush loved his Tex-Mex, and Molina's was his go-to when he had a craving for that. He also had a taste for Mexican beer.

"It was really exciting when they would come in. Everybody got pretty nervous," Sanchez said. "Even the guests, once they saw him walk in, one left the building. They would stay here until Mr. and Mrs. we're able to leave."

Sanchez says the former president never said no when asked to take pictures, and he loved it when children asked for them.

The general manager admits to being a little star struck when the Bushes came to the restaurant.

"I decided I was going to be brave enough to go ask the Secret Service for a picture, so I got down, of course he's in his wheelchair, so I scooted down a little bit, took the picture and he kissed me on the cheek," Sanchez said. "Now I have a story to tell my children and grandchildren."

The former president made a lasting impression on employees at Molina's and other diners lucky enough to meet him there.

"To know that he won't be back, that we won't see him in here, it's hard to take. It's heart breaking," said Sanchez.