Assemblyman Josh Hoover presents Pancake Palace owner Mohammad Shatnawi with 7th Assembly District’s 2025 Small Business of the Year. 

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Assemblyman Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) recently announced that Pancake Palace has been selected as the 2025 Small Business of the Year for the 7th Assembly District.

Founded by Mohammad Shatnawi, a Jordan native who came to the United States seeking a better future, Pancake Palace has been a beloved fixture in the North Highlands community since its grand opening on Jan. 1, 1998.

Mohammad’s journey began while pursuing his education at California State University, Sacramento, and working at Lyon’s Restaurant, where he rose from entry-level positions to General Manager.

Through this experience, he learned the values of hard work, teamwork and treating every customer with care; principles that inspired him to pursue his dream of owning a restaurant with the support of his family.

Pancake Palace is a true family-owned and operated business, with Mohammad and his family working side by side each day. The restaurant is known for its high-quality food, warm service and welcoming atmosphere, treating customers as neighbors, friends and extended family.

Beyond serving meals, Pancake Palace has hosted countless gatherings that foster community connections and provide a space for conversations about local resources and neighborhood needs.

In May 2024, Pancake Palace faced a devastating fire that forced a temporary closure. Over the following months, Mohammad and his family undertook extensive rebuilding and remodeling efforts, including new plumbing, flooring, equipment, appliances and amenities. They now look forward to welcoming customers back with a grand reopening planned for January 2026.

“Pancake Palace represents the very best of what small businesses mean to our communities,” said Assemblyman Hoover.

“Mohammad’s story is one of perseverance, family and service. Even in the face of hardship, he and his family have remained committed to North Highlands, and their resilience is truly inspiring. I am proud to recognize Pancake Palace as the 7th Assembly District’s 2025 Small Business of the Year.”

Pancake Palace is located at 6225 Watt Ave, North Highlands, CA. Assemblyman Hoover is honored to recognize Pancake Palace for its unwavering commitment to excellence, hospitality and community leadership and extends his best wishes for continued success for many years to come.

Josh Hoover represents Assembly District 7, which includes the cities of Citrus Heights, Folsom and Rancho Cordova and the unincorporated communities of Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Foothill Farms, Gold River, Mather, McClellan Park, North Highlands, Orangevale and Rosemont.