Contemporary Mexican Place Urbano 116 Is Expanding, But Pivoting to Tex-Mex | Eater DC

"After celebrating a year in business and weathering a rough early Washington Post one-star review that criticized watery salsa, “airport lounge” margaritas, and an inconsistent, frustrating experience, I see Urbano 116 preparing to open a second location in Fairfax’s Mosaic District (2985 District Avenue) this summer. Its flagship at 116 King Street is undergoing a major menu overhaul that shifts away from Alam Méndez Florián’s Oaxacan, time-intensive moles and tostadas toward more ubiquitous Tex‑Mex fare — burritos, taco salads, enchiladas, chimichangas, and sizzling fajita platters — while still offering lots of tacos (though barbacoa and beef tongue will be dropped) and keeping on-site tortillas made from Mexican heirloom corn. I note that Méndez Florián, who owns the acclaimed Pasillo de Humo in Mexico City and splits his time between countries, is moving into a consulting role because the restaurant’s 160-seat size made it tough to serve his original concept; the company says a smaller future location could reprise his contemporary Mexican style. Urbano will temporarily close on Monday, February 24 and plans to reopen on Saturday, February 29 with the new menu and a light refresh of its lucha libre design." - Tierney Plumb