Keso Brings Real Mexican Fare to Johns Creek

There are many things to notice as you enter , one of the newest additions to the restaurant scene in Johns Creek: a contemporary, well appointed space, a well-stocked bar and, central to everything, a colossal replica of an ancient Olmec head*. This impressive feature represents the intention of restaurant owners Jamie Gonzalez and Jose Mata to bring an authentic Mexican experience and menu to Johns Creek. 

For the last 17 years, 16 of which he spent as president of a large Mexican restaurant chain, Jaime Gonzalez has true insight into what it takes to run a restaurant. Having grown up in Monterrey, Mexico, Gonzalez showcases his authentic Mexican food heritage at his new restaurant. One way he and co-owner Mata have done that is by bringing their two chefs in from Mexico.

Gonzalez is glad to be in Johns Creek. He says he “loves having contact with the customers and serving them real Mexican food.”

One of the menu favorites is Chile en Nogada, which I tried. It comes from an original recipe from the 1800s, and I can verify that it still pleases the palate today. The dish includes “two pablano chilis filled with picadillo beef, almonds and green olives and topped with a walnut-based cream sauce with panela keso and pomegranate seeds.” The presentation is beautiful and the dish offers a subtle combination of sweet and savory. 

Other popular items are the Enchiladas Tamarindo and Tequila Lime Tacos. There is a Tapas menu so you can try a variety of small portions. If you don’t feel sure about traditional Mexican fare Keso also has a small Tex Mex section on the menu. 

Thursday-Saturday nights you can enjoy live music from 7-11 p.m. Keso does offer catering for about a 20-mile radius and there is a private banquet room that seats 25-30. 

Come on in and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and good food at Keso Mexican Grill, Johns Creek's newest Mexican restaurant.

Keso Mexican Grill
11030 Medlock Bridge Road
Johns Creek 30097
(770) 813-9898

Hours:
Monday-Wednesday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

*Olmec head – The ancient Olmec civilization is believed to be one of the oldest people groups in Mesoamerica, predating the Aztecs and Mayans. One thing the Olmecs are recognized for is carving colossal-size stone heads from volcanic rock basalt.