(photo courtesy of Antonio’s on Melrose)

Antonio’s on Melrose is celebrating the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival from Friday, Oct. 31 through Sunday, Nov. 2, offering special dishes, breads and treats in observance of the holiday, which originated in Mexico.

Dia de los Muertos honors loved ones who have passed away, and the holiday is traditionally celebrated with dishes such as chicken or enchiladas molé, and chicken pipian. The festive holiday is marked by colorful decorations, flowers and costumes, as well as skeletons and skulls, said Irma Rodriguez, whose father Antonio Gutierrez founded Antonio’s on Melrose in 1970.

At Antonio’s on Melrose, diners will find an altar created by Rodriguez for Dia de los Muertos. Guests are invited to add photographs of loved ones who have passed away to the altar, she added.

“The celebration is a remembrance, with great meals and memories and music,” Rodriguez said. “It’s a time of happiness – a big celebration.”

Antonio’s on Melrose is also offering sugar skulls and other goodies for children. The restaurant is still owned and operated by the Gutierrez family, who welcome guests to join them for Dia de los Muertos and enjoy their delicious molé.

Antonio’s on Melrose is located at 7470 Melrose Ave. For information, call (323)658-9060, or visit www.antoniosonmelrose.com.