El Famoso

"This week, El Famoso will bring retro vibes and Mexican cuisine inspired by Southern California to Irving. The 1,900-square-foot restaurant at 5228 N. O'Connor Blvd will throw open the doors this Friday with its vintage feel and a menu of Cali-Mex, Tex-Mex, and American classics. Charlie Green of Olivella’s envisioned the concept when he traveled Southern California in search of the perfect Mexican street food. In his travels, Green visited the state’s barely-surviving midcentury diners, and wanted to revive that aesthetic in DFW. The menu will feature enchiladas, quesadillas, chile relleno, and of course tacos in several varieties including a “Tex-Mexicali” category, in addition to traditional American fare like hamburgers and sloppy joes. Breakfast tacos and burritos are available on weekends. There’s a solid cocktail menu of south-of-the-border-inspired drinks like pineapple with cucumber vodka and basil, watermelon daiquiris, and the requisite handful of margarita options along with beer and wine. “Our guests will be transported to a time and place through the food offering, décor, and festive atmosphere,” Green said in a statement. “And like those first Mexican diners that have survived, we have captured the evolution of this iconic eatery in a diverse menu.” Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, until 1 a.m.; Breakfast is available until 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday." - Alaena Hostetter