The corner of Mendocino and Seventh St. in Santa Rosa is about to become home to two Latin-inspired restaurants featuring the cuisines of Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Brazil.
Opening in the former Franco’s (previously Acapulco) is Brasa Churrascaria and Brewpub. Details on the restaurant are still a bit sketchy, but BiteClub caught the new restaurateurs this week outside the space who described the menu as including “churrasco”, traditional Brazilian grilled meats served on skewers. Think barbecued beef, pork, chicken or fish cooked and served on long swords–dinner and a show.
Taking over the former Seven/Vine bar and nightclub is Olé. Opening chefs include Jose Luis Nunez (Auberge, Solage) and AJ Lockwood (Safari West, Frank & Ernie’s) who’ve created a mix of Latin dishes that include Puerto Rican Mofongo (green plantains with chicharonnes), Cubano sandwiches, Pechuga Rellan (stuffed chicken breast with shrimp), Pollo al Horno (chicken with oregano and garlic) as well as Mexican staples of red snapper ceviche, carnitas, Cochinita pibil (a BiteClub fave that includes pork, achiote and pickled red onions).
Owners Yanet Ramirez, Patricia Rodriguez and Levi Rodriguez hope to add additional dishes that include influences from the Dominican Republic and other Caribbean cuisines.
What we’re especially excited about: Cocktail King John Burton (owner of the Santa Rosa Bartender School and bar consultant) has crafted a spirits menu that i includes Caipirinhas, Pisco Sours, Pina Coladas, Michelada and upscale margaritas.
Both restaurants are expected to open this spring.