RICHMOND, Va. — A Shockoe Bottom restaurateur is staking his claim in Shockoe Slip with a new concept that will take over the former longtime home of a local Italian eatery.
Mijas, an upscale Mexican eatery by local restaurateur Carlos Londoño, will soon fill the roughly 4,500 square feet at 1218 E. Cary St. that until recently was occupied by La Grotta Ristorante.
La Grotta moved out on July 2 after 22 years in the Slip in favor of new digs in the Miller & Rhoads building at 529 E. Broad St. downtown.
Londoño, who has owned Margarita’s Cantina at 103 N. 18th St. for six years, said he began discussing the idea of leasing the space after learning that La Grotta owners Antonio and Andrea Capece were planning to relocate to a larger location.
The Queens, New York native who also operates two restaurants in the Big Apple, flew into town to meet with the Capeces and he was sold.