While working as a general manager of a restaurant in Dallas, Miriam Jimenez sometimes fielded guest complaints, such as one she received about what the guest perceived as subpar nonalcoholic beer choices on the drink menu.

“I said, ‘What would you like to have?’ He told me the brand, and I went to buy it for him and gave it to him the next time he came in. I told him that I wanted him to have a good experience in our restaurant today,” Jimenez said.

That customer was Shannon Wynne, co-owner of 8.0 Management, which operates multiple restaurant concepts, including Flying Saucer, Flying Fish, Rodeo Goat and others.

The background

Jimenez said since earning a degree in business, she dreamed of one day opening a coffee shop. Over the years, she fueled the entrepreneurial vision by collecting photos of elements she wanted to incorporate into her restaurant while simultaneously working in restaurants.


Jimenez said Wynne knew she was working toward opening a restaurant, and he approached her about partnering with him to open Miriam Cocina Latina at a spot in Dallas near Klyde Warren Park. The restaurant opened in 2019.

“It was really nice that he trusts that I can do it,” Jimenez said. “Shannon is a very good partner. He's the one that always has the artistic view for everything.”

A second location is slated to open Jan. 6 in Cypress Waters and will join other 8.0 Management concepts already open in the mixed-use development.

What’s on the menu?


Jimenez said the menu features Tex-Mex items, such as enchiladas and tacos, but guests will notice unique flavor palates.

“We make some twists in the sauce,” Jimenez said. “We use radish and hibiscus pickled onions and other things to bring different flavors.”

Jimenez is from the Dominican Republic and also includes some of her mother’s recipes into the menu, such as Cabrito A La Diabla, which features braised goat, cilantro, white rice, roasted peppers and sweet plantain.

Going forward


As the opening day draws closer, hiring and training are underway as well as finishing touches on interior design elements.

“We are using warm colors—giving you peace and joy at the same time,” Jimenez said. “Our patio is enclosed. We take advantage of having a beautiful 'ocean' view and being warm and cold at the same time.”