Diners in Denton have a new option for contemporary Mexican cuisine at Mexican Oak, an upscale restaurant that opened in the city square on July 1.
The restaurant occupies the space that was formerly Barley & Board, located at the corner of Locust and Oak streets.
The restaurant is open and airy with high ceilings, and decorated with Mexican motifs inspired by the Day of the Dead and monarch butterflies. Plants reminiscent of the bougainvilleas found in many regions of Mexico, along with rustic yet classic furniture, complete the décor.
As soon as you enter Mexican Oak, multicolored skulls, murals, handicrafts, large lamps and Mexican music welcome you, inviting you to linger.
The menu, created by Mexican chef Jorge Romero, includes steaks, tacos, soups, salads and traditional Mexican appetizers, such as guacamole, queso blanco fundido and shrimp cocktail. There are vegan and vegetarian options as well.
“We are excited that we have opened in the heart of Denton Square,” Romero told The Dallas Morning News. “We have classic Mexican flavors but with a contemporary twist for all palates.”
Romero was born in Mexico City, grew up in Chicago and has lived in Texas for nearly three decades. His family and lifelong work in the restaurant industry inspire many of his dishes.
“Some say that the food isn’t Mexican enough or that it’s not spicy enough, but I tried to accommodate everyone so that everyone can enjoy it,” said Romero. “Mexican food isn’t all about being spicy, it’s about being flavorful and fresh.”
The dinner menu features classic flavors of Mexican cuisine, such as tortilla soup, short rib enchiladas, carne asada, huachinango (red snapper) and fajitas. For lunch, there are various bowls, tacos and appetizers.
Inside Mexican Oak, the new upscale restaurant in Denton
Drinks are not an afterthought at Mexican Oak. With a selection of more than 65 tequilas, cocktails go beyond classic margaritas and include options such as Flor de Durazno, with peach puree vodka, lemon juice and black lemon bitters; Jalisco Espresso, with tequila, liqueur, fresh espresso and cinnamon vanilla syrup; or Fuego Rosa, with tequila, lime juice, hibiscus serrano and Cointreau.
Mexican Oak offers lunch and dinner service and plans to add brunch soon.
Mexican Oak is located at 100 W. Oak St., Denton. mexicanoak.com.
