By james art Hello AJ readers!
In this week’s business news highlights, we took out the (non-dancing) lobsters, got high praise from a Texas taco expert, and learned why the beloved Cactus Alley needs to find a new location. Let’s dig in.
Starting the week, Texas Monthly released its Top 50 Best Tacos in Texas report. On that list was one of my favorite restaurants, Jimenez Tortilleria y Taqueria at 4606 34th St. The Taco Editor highlighted the Three Amigos Taco Board.
“Being on this Top 50 Tacos list is a huge honor and we can’t wait to move forward with all these phenomenal taco shops and a big congratulations to everyone on the Top 50 Tacos list,” the business said on social media. “Our biggest mission with our store is to put out the best product we can produce, and that’s a true testament to all our hard work, to the 4am in the morning and the time we leave at 11pm”
more: Texas Monthly praises Lubbock restaurant in the top 50 tacos in the state
I also want to mention that Amarillo’s MTZ Taqueria food truck also made the list for its amazing beer. From Taco editor José R. Ralat’s description, it sure sounds like it’s worth the drive.
“The biriya here uses a tenderloin so tender that it breaks apart as the chefs remove it from the braising liquid,” Ralat points out in the article. “The remaining juice is used to dip the tortillas. The tacos are grilled and the meat is topped with Oaxacan-style milk queso – the melted cheese makes for a tantalizing attraction.”
more: The Amarillo food truck makes Texas Monthly’s 50 Best Beer Tacos list
Lubbock will be home to Cousins Maine Lobster food truck, which had a grand opening celebration on Saturday. The publication named Chris Wilson and Gary Andrews, both operators of six Slim Chicken locations, as Lubbock franchisees.
“As a lifelong restaurant operator, I know an amazing brand when I see one,” Wilson said. “My first contact with Cousins Maine Lobster was seeing a line of people excited and eager to try it. We couldn’t be more proud to become part of the CML family and bring this amazing product and experience to our West Texas community.”
more: Cousins Maine Lobster food truck franchise begins in Lubbock
Mano Negra Brewing Co., 2610 Salem Ave., is set to leave its Cactus Alley home in less than two months after five years in business. It was an unexpected decision by the Alley’s new owners, who informed Mano Negra last weekend, according to the owners.
“While we are heartbroken to leave this space, we are committed to finding a new home where we can continue to build the same strong sense of community and craftsmanship,” said Daniel Badillo of Mano Negra. “No matter where we go, our goal remains to create a welcoming space in Lubbock for people of all backgrounds, especially those who may not have found a place where they truly feel they belong.”
Mano Negra has launched a GoFundMe and will be doing a Kickstarter to raise funds. These funds will go towards finding and preparing a new space, along with helping the family during the transition.
more: Mano Negra Brewing to relocate due to ‘new vision’ for Cactus Alley, looking for next location
Next week, keep an eye out for a story on a new taco franchise opportunity and October’s monthly roundup of all the business news.
As always, thank you for reading and supporting AJ.
This article originally appeared in the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock business news includes Mano Negra, Texas Monthly tacos, more