Hungry yet,
We received a reminder this week about the difficulties of the restaurant industry.
Long-time Tex-Mex spot Don Pablo ’s near Christiana Mall said adios as the once sizable chain shrunk to a half a dozen locations.
To the south In Delaware City Lewinsky’s on Clinton also bowed out. Both spots closed the door on a new operator anytime soon as equipment was put up for sale or auction.
Earlier, Cocino Lolo, a venture of chef Bryan Sikora, closed its doors. While having aspirations beyond Tex-Mex, diners preferred more basic fare, according to media reports.
Lewinsky’s offered solid higher-end bar fare and friendly service. It is hoped that another dining spot can take its place on Clinton Street.
I was never a fan of Don Pablo’s. I grew up in an area of Arizona with 15,000 people and a dozen restaurants with a distinctive take on Mexican food that can’t be duplicated elsewhere.
More than a few people have packed “burros” (not burritos) in coolers for the trip back east. Google Globe-Miami Mexican food to learn more.
But over the years I had stopped into Don Pablo ’s since the dining spot was a popular stop for networking and after-work events, especially after the demise of Chi-Chi’s.
Tex-Mex restaurant concepts that try to expand nationwide have never fared well and Don Pablo’s was no exception, even though it had authentic touches like freshly made tortillas.
The roster of Don Pablo’s dwindled from more than 100 to half a dozen over the past couple of decades, with Christiana being one of the survivors.
Sadly, the news was accompanied by a heart-wrenching story from Delaware Online on people in recovery losing their jobs. The restaurant industry often offers opportunities for people in need of a second chance.
The good news is that the industry is growing overall and is seeking out workers.
Meanwhile, a northern Delaware special occasion mainstay, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, changed hands, with a newly revived Romano’s Macaroni Grill buying the small chain. (See story above).
Sullivan’s fans may be a little nervous as former corporate parent Del Frisco’s had a background in expense account restaurants and Romano’s does not. Dropping down a notch in the quality of steaks or service could prove disastrous. Here’s hoping current management will remain in place. – Doug Rainey, publisher.
