IMG_5054-1024x768.jpg
IMG_5054
It’s not just what’s going into the spot at the corner of High Street and Euclid Avenue this fall, says first-time restaurateur Aaron Rothke, but what will be coming out.
The Macho Nacho, which Rothke describes as a modern American take on Tex-Mex, is expected to open in mid-September at 854 E. High Street.
Rothke described plans for a menu that’s still being developed, bar service with a focus on choice tequila and an updated sports bar-like atmosphere with as many as 30 TVs and USB charging ports built into the bar.
But he’s also staking his new restaurant’s fortunes on a question that he said he asked himself two years ago: “Why does no one deliver Mexican food?” (A quick look at the top 10 results for “Mexican restaurant” in Lexington, by no means exhaustive, backs Rothko’s view.)
The Macho Nacho’s delivery area map isn’t set, but Rothke said he expects to serve much of the University of Kentucky campus, downtown and Chevy Chase. And go late.
“We’re going to try to go to 2 a.m.,” he said, “assuming that timing makes sense.”
Rothke said a chef has not been chosen but that he hopes to offer a Mexican brunch and some variety.
“We’re going for a little higher end,” he said while insisting pricing would be in line with similar options.
Construction on the site is expected to last until August. Rothke said the inside will seat about 200, including 15 at the bar. Four tables on an outside patio should accommodate another 16 people during comfortable weather.
Rothke said he is still working out the details of securing a liquor license but planned to have it before opening. He said the bar would include more than 60 tequila varieties, among other offerings.
Rothke, who calls himself "entrepreneurial by nature," said he's excited by the timing and location.
"Something like 4,200 cars go by here daily," he said.
For more information about The Macho Nacho:
Facebook: the macho nacho
Twitter: @eatmachonacho
Instagram: eatmachonacho