Funky Chic La Güera Opens in Riverfront Park

Chef Richard Sandoval never really stops.With a major renovation on Zengo behind him, Sandoval also relaunched the space adjacent to the Asian-fusion restaurant as La Güera. The new venue has transformed the La Biblioteca space (1610 Little Raven Street) into a casual, comfortable and inviting cantina that serves the inventive cuisine with a Mexican slant.

The décor includes vibrant murals designed by local artist Jared Anderson of JDP Art, and metal, brick, rope, animal pelt and charred wood elements are woven throughout. To bring together the cantina vibe, custom Mexican tile lines the back bar. There are authentic Mexican altars, traditional and religious folk art, plus a wall covered floor-to-ceiling in votive candles. In the spring, two large garage doors will be added, welcoming the outside in.

What's in the name? "In its simplest translation, ‘La Güera' means ‘Blonde,'" says Sandoval. In our case, La Güera is the personification of that friend we all have; one that is always welcoming, hospitable and fun-loving, with boundless energy. This personification is what I wanted the space itself to reflect - approachable, fun and vibrant - inspired by the streets of Mexico."

The menu is focused around affordable Mexican street foods. Among them are crispy bacon guacamole, tortilla soup, carne asada sopes, enchiladas and nachos, plus signature tacos from carnitas, to pork pastor, and veggie alambre. Aguas frescas, cocktails, craft beer, wine and more than 200 tequilas round out the menu.

The gastro cantina offers fast casual lunch service and full dinner service daily. Happy hour is offered from 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday.