While coronavirus has disrupted the businesses of local restaurants across the country, a new one is popping up in Shirlington despite the tough times for the industry.
New fast-casual Mexican restaurant TACO + PINA is scheduled to open tomorrow (Tuesday) on Cinco de Mayo. The eatery is located at 4041 Campbell Avenue, formerly Lotus Grill and Noodles.
“TACO + PINA’s is a labor of love which has been in the works for almost a year and a half now” said owner Graham Bartlett, a protégée of famed chef and restaurateur Richard Sandoval. “While some may question opening during a pandemic I believe it is our destiny to launch on Cinco de Mayo, which this year also falls on Taco Tuesday.”
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support and constant positive encouragement from the Village of Shirlington community asking when we will open,” Bartlett continued. “We have an opportunity to offer truly great food with high-quality ingredients, and we get to do something positive for our new neighbors during this anxiety-driven time.”
The restaurant will be open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., according to the website.
Bartlett said the restaurant will offer contactless pick-up and delivery. Takeout options include:
- Tacos: fried chicken, pina+taco; “chile relleno,” ribeye asado, and baja bahia.
- Enchiladas with rice and refried beans: garlic sambal chicken, roasted mushroom + cheese
- Nachos: crab chilaquiles, shrimp + chorizo nachos, hot mess nacho fries
- Party Size (6-8 people): chips + salsa, roasted poblano queso dip, and guacamole.
The press release noted that TACO + PINA will also offer a “backyard party” package for $55, which will serve 4-6 people. The package includes:
- Chips, salsa and guacamole
- Flautas
- Two taco proteins (pork, mushroom, fried chicken)
- 24 corn tortillas with rice and beans, salsa and cream
Tequilas, frozen margaritas, wines, Mexican imported beers, and local craft beers are also planned to be available for takeout starting Tuesday.
Photo via Taco and Piña/Facebook