When Edible Canada revealed earlier this year they would not be re-opening their shop and restaurant in the heart of Granville Island the news left a hole in the heart for many a local food fan. But now we know what will take its place, and what's moving in sounds like an exciting - and delicious - venture.
Alimentaria Mexicana is a new Mexican "cultural and culinary experience" from Mexican-Canadian chef and businessman Ernesto Gomez. Gomez and his team of collaborators are behind popular Vancouver restaurants like Nuba and Chancho Tortilleria.
This June, Gomez and the Alimentaria Mexicana team will welcome customers to the licensed dine-in cantina and patio to enjoy Mexican fare made using carefully-sourced ingredients from Canada and Mexico.
In addition, Alimentaria Mexicana will boast a take-out window, tortilleria, and retail shop.
Alimentaria Mexicana is opening in the former Edible Canada location at Granville Island. By Rendering courtesy Alimentaria MexicanaGomez is proud to have his latest venture further his efforts to showcase, support and celebrate farmers and suppliers from Canada and small south-of-the-border communities across Mexico.
“Behind every chile, kernel of corn and native grain we source from Mexico are stories with thousands of years of heritage, genetics and biodiversity attached to them,“ says Gomez. “These are stories of hardworking farmers that planted the crops, tended and harvested them with care and are now able to reap the rewards and improve the lives of the people who live and work in those communities.“
Also on board are partners Darragh McFeely (Nuba, Chancho Tortilleria, Fayuca) and Executive Chef Martin Vargas, who was head chef at Gomez's Fayuca restaurant which was located in Yaletown.
We can expect to learn more about Alimentaria Mexicana as opening approaches.
