El Vago Mexican Kitchen Set to Open in Downtown Greenville, Revamping the Space of Velo Fellow

Goodbye Velo Fellow, Hello El Vago Mexican Kitchen!

Greenville, are you ready for some exciting news? A fresh new dining spot is on its way, and it’s sure to tantalize your taste buds! In the heart of downtown Greenville, the El Vago Mexican Kitchen will soon be opening its doors in the space that was once home to the beloved Velo Fellow. After a fantastic 14-year run, Velo Fellow has closed, but its legacy will be honored as new flavors take over!

Meet the New Kids on the Block

The entrepreneurial whiz behind El Vago is none other than Jonathan Sanchez. After making waves with a successful eatery in Columbia, he’s ready to bring the same energy and flavor to Greenville. Sanchez isn’t just another businessman; he’s a visionary looking to create a haven for fans of authentic Mexican cuisine. “We saw an opportunity here,” Sanchez remarked about the Velo Fellow site. “I recognized its potential and thought, why not?”

A Bigger and Better Experience

If you’re wondering about the vibes and size of the new spot, you’re in for a treat! The Columbia El Vago measures in at a cozy 3,600 square feet, but the Greenville location will double that space! That means more room for your group to enjoy great food and drinks. Sanchez explained how the name “El Vago” translates roughly to “vagabond” in Spanish, a term that might just remind you of family when they’ve got a warning about wandering too far from home.

From Cars to Tacos

Believe it or not, Sanchez has quite the interesting background. Before diving into the restaurant world, he spent 20 years in the automobile industry, owning two successful car dealerships. “After the pandemic hit, the automotive landscape changed significantly,” he shared. That’s when he, alongside his wife Sonia Barillos, decided to shift gears and explore opportunities in the grocery business. They launched Maz Fresco, which has already garnered attention in North Charleston, with plans for a Myrtle Beach location in the works!

Fiesta Time for Your Taste Buds!

Sanchez is not just bringing in the same old traditional fare; he’s elevating the experience! Expect to see traditional dishes like proteins in manudo, fajitas, enchiladas, and street tacos on the menu. But there’s more! Seafood lovers, rejoice! El Vago will have standout dishes like seviche, langostinos, and aguachile, bringing a fresh coastal twist from the Mexican cuisine repertoire. And let’s talk cocktails! You can expect an impressive selection of Mezcal and tequila, alongside innovative cocktails crafted by a Mexican mixologist!

Setting the Scene

When it comes to decor and ambiance, Sanchez is aiming for a vibrant, street-art-inspired atmosphere, reminiscent of the art district in Miami. With murals and graffiti that will beckon your inner social media influencer, you’ll want to snap a pic the moment you step inside! Plus, to make your dining experience even livelier, Sanchez plans to book deejays and musicians to entertain guests. Looks like dinner just got a whole lot more fun!

Spreading the Word

In a tech-savvy world, getting the buzz out is crucial, and Sanchez knows that well. With an impressive track record in marketing from his car dealership days and a whopping 500,000 social media followers, he’s ready to make El Vago the talk of the town! “We get it: it’s all about reaching people where they are,” he said confidently, excited to show Greenville what they’ve been missing.

Plans for the Future

But hold onto your sombreros! El Vago Mexican Kitchen is just the beginning for Sanchez. He dreams of expanding his vision to include grocery stores and restaurants in major cities throughout the Carolinas. “This is just the start of great things to come,” he said, filled with enthusiasm about the niche he’s eager to fill. Sanchez reminisces about dining experiences in hotspots like Las Vegas and Miami, exclaiming that Greenville deserves that same caliber of fun, flavorful dining!

What’s next?

So, when can you expect to enjoy all this goodness? El Vago is set to open its doors in spring 2025, serving lunch and dinner, just in time for you to gather your friends and dive into a fiesta of flavors. Are you ready, Greenville? Culinary adventures await!