Sopes are a traditional Mexican dish featuring a thick, fried corn masa base and hold various toppings. (Courtesy Hasan Yousef)
Officials with the highly anticipated Mexican restaurant, Johnny Ritas Cocina y Cantina, confirmed that the establishment will fully open to customers Feb. 6.
Read all about it
The restaurant is designed by Wynne Design Works and is inspired by the colors, textures and architecture of Oaxaca. (Courtesy Hasan Yousef)
Johnny Ritas will bring a mesquite- and charcoal-fired approach to Mexican cuisine that blends Tex-Mex favorites, Oaxacan tradition and Baja-inspired seafood, according to a Feb. 3 news release.
The neighborhood cantina is led by Chef Jesus Salinas and is named after owner Chico Ramirez's grandparents.
“Johnny Ritas is a tribute to my grandparents and the roots of our family,” Ramirez said in the news release. “Our gatherings revolved around family and cooking, and we wanted to create a place where people can come together over great food, drinks and shared moments.”
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This traditional Mexican dish, known as Poolo En Mole Negro, features tender chicken simmered in a sauce made from Mexican chocolate and dried chiles. (Courtesy Hasan Yousef)
Chef Salinas has worked in establishments such as Mark's American Kitchen, Liberty Kitchen, Field & Tides and White Elm Brasserie.
While the whole menu has yet to be released, as of Feb. 4, highlights include:
Aguas Chiles & Tostaditas en Crudo
Ritas Enchiladas
Molotes Oaxaquenos
Johnny Snapper a la parrilla
All items will be prepared using an open flame technique over mesquite or charcoal, per the release. Daily service and weekend brunch will be available.
Looking for a libation?
Johnny Ritas cocktail menu will focus on a variety of crafted margaritas and tequila drinks. (Courtesy Hasan Yousef)
The restaurant's cocktail program centers on crafted margaritas and "tequila-forward and spirit-driven originals." Specialty drinks will include house margaritas, frozen or on the rocks, premium pours like The Black Card, and variations that include options such as blood orange liqueur.
Additional cocktails include the Strawberry Basil Margarita; the Repo Ember, made with a smoky reposado Tequila with mango nectar; and the Mi Abuel, a blending of bourbon, prickly pear and cinnamon.
One more thing
Johnny Ritas offers indoor seating at its handcrafted wood bar, custom tables and booths, or an expansive patio.
The restaurant will be open seven days a week, serving late lunch and dinner Monday through Friday beginning at 3 p.m., with brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by the regular menu. The kitchen will serve until 10 p.m., with the bar open until midnight.
