Emiliano Marentes and his wife Kristal started their restaurant just three years ago pandemic. Yet, in just three years they've attracted national recognition. He is among semi-finalists nominated for a national James Beard award. Ultimately, Marentes did not advance to finalist, but the recognition is notable since the restaurant opened just a year before the pandemic.
Marentes says he's inspired by growing up on the border and his parents' work with the people who harvest the food we eat. His dishes are made from scratch with fresh, local ingredients including corn from Mexico freshly ground for tortillas.
Angela Kocherga