What is your favorite dish that brings memories of your grandparents? Is it lasagna or roast beef? Do you remember Sunday suppers, or breakfast at the beach, when you think of family gatherings led by your own abuelos? That’s the idea behind the newest branch of Los Abuelos in Johns Creek - a family restaurant where customers have a place to gather.
Owners, Tito, Miguel and Daniel, three men who look like they enjoy running a business together, say the original Los Abuelos in Newnan is successful because they have invested in the community and the restaurant has become a gathering place that supports local causes. They are planning for the Johns Creek location to be the same. Open only a few months, the space is already buzzing with customers of all kinds: families with kids, couples on a date night, and groups celebrating an occasion. It is important to the owners that the restaurant supports the local community. School fundraisers, public service employees, groups of all kinds are encouraged to gather in the semi-private room for meet ups and social time with an atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie.
The menu is extensive, featuring the usual favorites - tacos, enchiladas and burritos - but many of the dishes have something surprising in them. For example a pineapple on Daniel’s Burrito hints at the pork inside and the spices that surround each bite with flavorful delight. The margaritas are generous and flavorful, as well as impressive to see. Fresh fruitful ingredients like mango or orange juice compliment the zesty lime flavor of a basic mix. Guacamole is always a favorite to share at any Mexican restaurant. At Los Abuelos it is served freshly made, and topped with just the right amount of pico de gallo, cilantro and jalapeños. Order it prepared table-side and it becomes an event in itself! Los Abuelos is open from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.
When asked about their own memories of their grandparent’s and the meals they’ve shared, Tito’s favorite memory of his grandmother is her sopes. Topped with chicken, vegetables or just salsa, the corn tortilla-like cake is the perfect vehicle for the freshest of toppings. Miguel remembers his grandmother’s huarache as his favorite dish. Huarache (yes, shaped like the sandal!) is another platform for wonderful, fresh toppings, or simply topped with beans and cheese. It's similar to a pizza. Tito and Miguel have been in the metro Atlanta area for many years, at familiar local restaurants. You will recognize them for their welcome smiles when they greet you like an old friend. Los Abuelos is like that - a place for old friends to enjoy a fresh margarita and a delicious meal together. LosAbuelosMexGrill.com