Longview Welcomes Ki’ Mexico: A Fresh Taste of Mexican Fusion
Longview is buzzing with excitement as Ki’ Mexico, a beloved Mexican fusion restaurant, gears up to open its second location right inside Greenside Beverage Co. This lively addition to downtown is sure to tickle the taste buds of residents who’ve been craving something unique and delightful.
From Shreveport to Longview
If you’re from Shreveport, you probably already know about the culinary magic happening at Ki’ Mexico. Since 2015, owners Eleazar and Rodrigo Mondragon have been serving delicious dishes in the South Highlands area, gaining a loyal following. After enjoying nearly a decade of success, the Mondragons decided it was time to expand their culinary footprint. They’ve teamed up with local entrepeneurs Hudson and Bessie Johnson, who have been hosting pop-up events at their wine bar, Greenside Beverage Co. So, you could say this partnership was a match made in culinary heaven!
A Flavorful Collaboration
Over the past three years, the aroma of dishes like cochinita braised pork and tender nopal cactus wafted through the air during these pop-up events, drawing in food lovers from all corners of Longview. Inspired by the overwhelming response, the Johnsons thought, “Why not have Ki’ Mexico here full-time?”
Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago when the deal was sealed—Ki’ Mexico has signed a lease to set up shop in what was once a beer brewing area inside Greenside. A soft opening is anticipated in early 2025, so get ready for those festive vibes!
Adapting to New Spaces
Bessie Johnson shares that they had considered various locations around town, but this one felt right. “It was just easier to plug them into our space, which is basically turn-key,” Bessie explained. To accommodate the new restaurant and its expected visitors, the Johnsons are installing a roof over the spacious back patio and prepping the former brewing area to fit the kitchen equipment.
Excitingly, the hours of Ki’ Mexico will align with Greenside’s bar, and guess what? They are even planning to add a Sunday brunch once the restaurant opens! Can you imagine enjoying a refreshing drink alongside delightful brunch dishes?
Innovation on the Menu
Rodrigo Mondragon, a self-proclaimed culinary experimentalist, is bubbling with excitement to explore local ingredients here in Longview. “We’re gonna find out what we can get in Longview that we can’t (in Shreveport),” he said with a gleam in his eye. Expect about 20% to 30% of the menu to be familiar, while the remainder remains a delicious mystery!
This could mean everything from gourmet burgers to ramen specials, all infused with a Mexican twist. The creativity of the Mondragons is not just limited to traditional tacos, and it seems the community is in for a tasty treat.
A Community of Tastes
What’s more delightful is that Ki’ Mexico will join a family of locally owned restaurants under the same Tyler Street roof. Alongside Solo Sandwich Co. and Cace’s Kitchen, it’s becoming a foodie paradise—the first pocket district in East Texas, as Hudson jokingly refers to it!
This communal approach to dining creates a more vibrant atmosphere, allowing food lovers to explore various culinary offerings all within a short walk. Hudson enthusiastically adds, “I think it’s really fun how the building works. There’s more of a communal aspect operating businesses right next to each other.”
Looking Forward
With just a few months left until the grand opening, excitement is building in Longview. Ki’ Mexico promises to bring flavors that tradition and innovation can both agree on. As both locals and visitors anticipate the flavors of Mexico fused with local ingredients, it’s clear that the Mondragons and the Johnsons are onto something special.
Mark your calendars and get ready to dive into a delightful dining experience once Ki’ Mexico opens its doors in early 2025—all bringing a taste of Mexico right to your neighborhood!
