Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
The owners of the new Mexiquila Restaurant and Bar, located at 101 E. Maryland Ave. in Somers Point, have created a true masterpiece.
Renovations were made to every detail of the building inside and out. The new look includes a totally unique, open-air build. The outside features an outdoor patio with a fully stocked bar where they make authentic street tacos on the patio in front of the guests on an open grill.
The owners of this fantastic Mexican restaurant came up from Cape May where they had operated a beach bar and grill, which featured fine dining for 20 years. As time went on, Cape May eventually had several establishments that were offering similar concepts.
The original intent was to duplicate the exact same template in Somers Point, but a developer bought that brand and concept in 2021. This left the team to recreate a separate identity and brand. Hence, Mexiquila was born with a collaborative and extremely creative effort.
The owners realized that there is no shortage of excellent food in Somers Point. However, there is one sought-after cuisine that is significantly harder to come by: Mexican. They invite guests to explore the vibrant essence of Mexican cuisine with a touch of elevated sophistication.
Mexiquila represents a culinary adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and elates the spirits, while placing tequila at the forefront of their beverage offerings. They are there to create more than just a meal; they are there to create a remarkable, fun-filled and unforgettable dining experience.
I was there last weekend and I will tell you firsthand the place was packed. Together with our friends, we were thoroughly impressed with not only the food, but the entire atmosphere.
At Mexiquila you will find what is quite possibly the most eclectic selection of tequila, mezcal, and Mexican distillations in the area. Their culinary team strives to create innovative dishes that are every bit as unique and creative as they are delicious.
Stable Hospitality Group’s Sharleen Walters and Payton Bowman announced the opening of Mexiquila, their newest restaurant, in late January. Prepare to be enthralled by the newest addition to SHG’s exceptional resume of restaurants, which includes past favorites Martini Beach, Cabanas Beach Bar and Grill, Taco Caballito, Iron Pier Craft House and the Draught Horse Restaurant and Pub. Occupying the former Clancy’s By the Bay, Mexiquila is 12,000 square feet of space and features 240 dining seats, three bars plus an outside patio bar.
“Our vision for Mexiquila is establishing a fun but heightened Mexican inspired concept with a coastal vibe enhanced by American cooling techniques,” says Bowman. Think elevated, high-energy tequila bar and restaurant with a bit more flair.
With an eminent career and a rich background in culinary arts, Chef Bill Fausey and Chef Gelasio Aguilar bring a wealth of experience and innovation to Mexiquila. Fresh and locally sourced menu ingredients, bold and spicy flavors, and colorful and thoughtful plate presentations combine to elevate the guest experience. The dining style is casually elegant, where the spirit of the tapas creates a party in a contemporary Mexican-inspired setting that sets the mood: Hot, spicy and salty.
You’re invited to meet the Team Chef Bill Fausey (Somers Point local) along with Executive Chef Gelasio (from EHT), General Manager Kristine Schmidd and Assistant Manager Jim Taggart now and in the spring when there will be open air dining. There will also be live daytime music, and happy hours. Hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday noon to 9 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays.
Look them up on facebook@mexiquila, Instagram or visit online at mexiquilanj.com and call 609-927-6868. One way or another you gotta get to Mexiquila!
Remember to support your local small businesses!
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-266-6680
or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
