New Mexican cantina opens downtown
What is a photo of Red Star in Fells Point doing next to a post about a new Mexican cantina behind Little Italy?
To my surprise, when I called Diablita, the new restaurant in the space where Tsunami was next to Lemongrass, I found out that the Red Star owner had taken over both the Tsunami space and Lemongrass from its Annapolis owners. ...
I had simply assumed the original owners had decided to change concepts when Tsunami's pan Asian offerings didn't go over as well in Baltimore as they did in Annapolis.
But, no. Not only will we be seeing a new restaurant where Tsunami was, but once Diablita, which opened last Thursday, gets established, the Lemongrass kitchen will be redone, the restaurant will be renamed, and it will get a new menu, probably Thai/pan Asian.
The executive chef I talked to is Russell Braitsch, who has worked in the kitchens of Gardel's, now closed; Salt; Corks; and Red Star.
I'll be writing in more depth about Diablita in next week's Table Talk column.
(Barbara Haddock Taylor/Sun photographer)
Comments
Exciting stuff! I'm looking forward to some new Tex Mex options in town. The menu looks ambitious. I am a little worried about the asparagus, ginger, and mushroom pairing with the fajitas and poblanos though...
Posted by: Bob UU | October 21, 2009 1:38 PM
Russell Braitsch actually did his best work creating the most creative and delicious sandwiches at Noah's on the Side in Ellicott City. That's great news.
Posted by: Jason | October 21, 2009 2:32 PM
Mexican bison? Gotta check this place out!
Posted by: Dahlink | October 21, 2009 2:46 PM
Nothing like dining out next to Perkins Homes. Terrible location.
Posted by: Brian | October 21, 2009 2:59 PM
This is the second time in recent weeks that I've gotten all excited at a headline that there's a New Mexican place opening, rather than a new Mexican place.
I know. I feel terrible. I remembered you, but then when I wrote "Mexican cantina opens," I thought to myself, "If I leave it like that, Jon Parker will never click on the link." EL
Posted by: Jon Parker | October 21, 2009 3:25 PM
Intriguing menu. But I have to wonder how people will react to paying an extra five bucks for the rice and refried beans that accompany burritos and tacos at so many other local Mexican restaurants...as well as a ten dollar tariff for gaucomole and chips.
Posted by: Michael A. Gray | October 21, 2009 6:16 PM
Looking at the menu it appears more Tex/Mex than Mexican. By definition Tex/Mex = cheap eats and lots of it washed down with beer or margaritas. So I don't really know where this restaurant should be classified though it could fit into the snobbery entry.
Posted by: Rusty | October 21, 2009 8:37 PM
Mixed emotions about Lemongrass leaving...I do enjoy having an Asian place in walking distance, but the food was just "good", never great. I'm glad to hear there will still be an Asian place in the area; I hope they keep the ginger martinis.
Posted by: Frequent Little Italy Restaurant Visitor | October 22, 2009 6:07 AM
When will someone figure out that anyone who is willing to pay >$10 for a burrito is an idiot?
Yes, I'm talking to you, Blue Agave, Diablita, et al. Mexican food by its nature is supposed to be CHEAP. Visit Tucson some time to get an idea of what I'm talking about.
Posted by: Doug | October 22, 2009 10:16 AM
we went on friday- apps and entrees were the same size all food was cold and the short rib tacos were 3 6" cold tortillias on a plate with a lime- 14 $
Mole sauce- hersheys! This place will need work
Posted by: annon | October 22, 2009 8:45 PM
Ok then...was planning to go tonight so glad I checked back with the post. Will wait and give it some time to improve!
Posted by: sas | October 23, 2009 8:03 AM
I checked this place out last night for their $5 Margarita night and it was great. The menu is definitely pricier than a typical taco/burrito joint, but the food and atmosphere certainly justify the expense. We had the Braised Beef Nachos and the Steak Fajitas, both which were delicious. Overall- great atmosphere and tasty food--works for me!
Posted by: Mike | October 23, 2009 4:15 PM