NEW ORLEANS – Tacos del Cartel is expanding.
VEHO Hospitality Group, the Mexican restaurant’s parent company, is renovating the location at 2901 David Drive in Metairie while preparing to open a second location at 1010 Girod Street in the Central Business District. The CBD location will be open before Cinco de Mayo, and the Metairie location, which debuted in 2020, will close briefly before reopening in June.
VEHO is led by Danny Cruz and Vilexys Cruz, who the say the renovation and new location are part of an overall rebranding of the dining concept.
“The purpose of this rebrand is to reimagine the legacy of Tacos del Cartel as it conveys our personality and our promise of authentic and elevated Mexican cuisine,” said Vilexys Cruz in a press release. “Everything will be new, from the visual identity to the flavors and mixology.”
Both Tacos del Cartel locations will feature interior design by Jacquelyn Lindsey of JL Studio Designs.
“Her innovative approach, which we experienced in our first location, will continue to push boundaries as she brings our vision to life,” said Vilexys.
VEHO Hospitality Group has partnered with chef Christian Chaussat, who will introduce a new menu and lead the teams at both locations. He replaces chef Julio Machado, who partnered with the Cruzes to open the restaurant.
Chaussat, who has French and Mexican roots, has more than two decades of culinary experience in Spain, Mexico and the United States. A spokesperson said Chaussat plans to “redefine the restaurant’s brunch program, elevate the taco experience and introduce sophisticated Mexican dining to the area.”
“Tacos del Cartel’s commitment to celebrating the essence of Mexican cuisine aligns perfectly with my culinary philosophy,” said Chaussat. “I look forward to crafting unforgettable dining experiences that are savory and rich like New Orleans’ culture.”
