Mexican Restaurant Targeting July Opening In Vernon

VERNON, CT — A Mexican restaurant that is relocating to Vernon from Manchester could be open as early as mid-July, its owner said Thursday.

Mexico Lindo owner Willy Chavez said he was optimistic about that time frame as he worked to shape up the interior at the 81 East St. location. He announced over the Memorial Day weekend that he was relocating to the Vernon plaza at the intersection of Route 30 and East Street from Main Street in Manchester, where he had been since 2017.

"We're almost there," Chavez said about the conversion efforts in Vernon.

Chavez said he needed the extra space at a much larger location.

The building previously housed Lucky Taco. In mid-March, the Lucky Taco owners said their Manchester restaurant was closing and the Vernon location was staying. Then, in early May, it was announced that the Vernon Lucky Taco was also closing.

Chavez said he should soon all health department related permits soon and Mexico Lindo could open by the middle of July.

Since its a conforming use, Mexico Lindo does not have to go through the time-consuming site plan approval process to make the move to Vernon, local economic development director Shaun Gately said. In addition to typical health department restaurant licenses, permits would only be needed for things like liquor and signage, he added.

A small sign has appeared on the doorway. Beside it was also an announcement that Mexico Lindo was hiring and it had a unique approach.

"Experience not required ... Bi-Lingual preferred ... In-person applications only."

Chavez said that if a reflection on a dedicated Spanish-speaking clientele.