Johnson County African restaurant closed. Made-to-order taco and tequila spot moves in
Being in the restaurant business might be an inherited trait — at least for Jesus Campos and Jorge Jimenez.
The two cousins worked at their uncle’s Mexican restaurant, K-Macho’s, before deciding to open their own, called La Patrona Tacos & Tequila.
Their restaurant took over the old Taste of Africa space this month at 11240 W. 135th St. in Overland Park. Taste of Africa closed earlier this year
“I enjoy working with food,” Campos said. “It runs in the family.”
Not to mention, another cousin, Emilio Romero, is opening yet his own Mexican restaurant, called Emiliano’s, at 2137 E. 151st St. in Olathe. Serving traditional Mexican cuisine, Emiliano’s is slated to open in August. Romero, too, gained his business sense from working at K-Macho’s.
“The main reason is to try to retire my parents early,” Romero told The Star earlier this month. “I’ve seen how hard they’ve been working my whole life.”
La Patrona is reminiscent of Chipotle — but local — with a made-to-order taco, burrito and quesadilla bar offering a variety of toppings: salsa, beans, rice, queso, chicken, etc.
To drink: mojitos, margaritas, sangria, pina coladas and several other cocktails, as well as beer.
Customers who dine in sit in booths or tables under colorful banners, or papel picado.
La Patrona is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Ten years ago, Armando Romero opened K-Macho’s at 1229 E. Santa Fe St. in Olathe. He later opened a second location at 11741 Metcalf Ave. in Overland Park.
K-Macho’s sells enchiladas, taco salads and other Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites.
Another Mexican restaurant (not owned by Romero’s family) is opening this summer in the old Wyandot Barbecue space. Las Palomas Bar and Grill will be at 7215 W. 75th St. in Overland Park.
