Built on Trust, Rooted in Laredo
A Lifetime Dream Realized
For over 45 years, Ruiz Custom Meats has served Laredo with quality, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to community.
Where It All Began
Forged in the Great Depression
In the heart of central Laredo, during the challenging years of the Great Depression, a young Leopoldo “Polo” Ruiz Jr. learned the values that would define his life’s work. Growing up in modest circumstances, Polo understood the importance of hard work, resourcefulness, and honest dealings—principles that became the cornerstone of everything he built.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Building Trust, One Customer at a Time
Before dedicating himself fully to the butcher’s craft, Polo established his entrepreneurial foundation by owning and operating Polo Ruiz Texaco during the 1960s and 1970s at the intersection of Market and Meadow. This wasn’t just a gas station—believe it or not, Polo had a cold room right there on site, complete with a table, meat saw, and grinder where he processed meat for customers. Even while pumping gas and serving the community, his true passion was clear: someday he would own a meat market.
A Dream Becomes Reality (1978)
Founded in 1978 at the former Air Force base on 303 Maher in Laredo, TX, Ruiz Custom Meats was a lifetime dream that Polo had envisioned. As a Laredo native with a passion for owning his very own meat market, Polo set out to offer quality custom cut meats, catering, deer processing, and community service—the backbone of what the business is today.
With the unwavering support of his wife, Belia Rodriguez Ruiz, Polo opened the doors to Ruiz Custom Meats. Together, they built a business founded on the service ethos Polo developed at the Texaco station—customer relations and integrity above all else—combined with years of hands-on meat processing experience.
In 1984, we moved to our current location at 2119 E Lyon St, where we continue to serve the community Polo loved.
45+ Years of Excellence
The Master Butcher's Craft
Polo grew the business over 45+ years, not only by mastering the craft of meat cutting and processing, but by infusing humor and hospitality into every customer interaction. Customers depended on Polo to consistently provide them with the best cuts of meat, often delivered with his signature quick-witted jokes and warm personality.
Our Promise to You
“What you bring in is what you will get back!”
— The Ruiz Custom Meats Guarantee
This guarantee is more than words—it’s the foundation of trust that has sustained our business for over four decades.
More Than a Meat Market
Serving Our Community in Multiple Ways
Over the years, Polo expanded Ruiz Custom Meats to serve our community beyond just meat processing. He became a Money Service Business (MSB) offering convenient services that families depend on:
– Check Cashing Services
– Western Union Money Transfers
– Boss Revolution International Calling
– Lyca Mobile Phone Services
These services reflect our commitment to being a true community hub—a place where families can take care of multiple needs in one trusted location.
Giving Back to Our Community
Feeding Families Across South Texas
Polo pioneered food drives—particularly through “Hunters for the Hungry” and South Texas Food Bank, donating deer meat annually to help feed families in need. Local charities that benefit from these efforts include:
– Hunters for the Hungry — Transforming donated game into vital nutrition
– South Texas Food Bank — Supporting regional hunger relief
– Bethany House — Providing meals for those experiencing homelessness
– Sacred Heart Children’s Home — Nourishing children in care
The values Polo instilled in his family extend beyond business—they embrace community service.
What We Offer Today
Fresh Cuts & Homemade Specialties
Today, the second-generation family business remains true to its origins, proudly serving families and hunters alike with:
Homemade Specialties (Original Recipes)
Homemade chorizo with our own in-house spice blend
Beef and pork sausage (regular or jalapeno)
Deer pan sausage • Deer salami
Holiday & Special Cuts
Turkeys • Bone-in hams • Boneless brisket
Ribs • Chicken (fresh or cooked)
Fresh Food Daily
Breakfast tacos every morning
Lunch plates Monday through Friday
Menudo and barbacoa on weekends
The Legacy Continues
Genuine Service, Just Like Daddo Would Have Wanted
Under the thoughtful stewardship of Polo’s daughter Anna Ruiz, the legacy continues with genuine service just like Daddo would have wanted.
Our family remains committed to the values Polo instilled: honesty, quality, and treating every customer like family.
Experience the Ruiz Difference
Join thousands of satisfied customers who trust Ruiz Custom Meats for quality cuts and expert wild game processing.
Ruiz Custom Meats
2119 E Lyon St, Laredo, TX 78043
Phone: (956) 724-3013
Email: info@ruizcustommeats.com
