Comal Taco Co., a fast casual Southwest- inspired taco joint, will open at Optimist Hall early this December. The new stall will replace Marina’s Tapas, owned by the Customshop team, Andres Kaifer and Alex Bridges, which closed its doors over the weekend to begin its transformation to the new concept.
Comal is owned and operated by Shang Skipper, a long-time restaurant professional known for his time at Fox Restaurant Concepts and Mac’s Hospitality group. Skipper’s good friend Andres Kaifer is on board as Chef Partner to help kick off the opening. Kaifer is designing the menus and providing high-level oversight and consultation for the Comal team as well as passing along his knowledge to the team from operating Marina’s this past year. All current Marina’s employees have been offered the opportunity to stay on through the transition and join the Comal team.
“It’s been a privilege sharing my family’s stories and recipes through Marina’s. I love Shang’s idea for a taco concept and I believe it will be super successful at Optimist Hall,” said Kaifer in a statement, “I’m looking forward to working with Shang and bringing his vision for simple high-quality tacos to life in the space.”
Comal is named after the traditional Mexican griddle used to cook tortillas, and the menu will feature a variety of tacos, dips, and Arizona’s signature cheese crisp. All of the tortillas and tortilla chips served will be sourced from locally owned De La Vega Tortillas. Comal will also serve signature sangrias and beer.
“Comal is all about celebrating bold, simple flavors inspired by the time I spent, and the food I loved, in Mexico and the American Southwest. Optimist Hall has many incredible options, but it’s missing a laid-back taco spot, and Comal will fit the bill,” said Owner Shang Skipper.
“We’re thrilled this team has chosen to work with us to introduce Comal,” says Merritt Lancaster. “This new concept featuring bold, authentic flavors and creativity brings a unique culinary experience to Optimist Hall, further reinforcing our commitment to offering diverse, high-quality cuisines.”
Comal will open at Optimist Hall in the coming weeks. For more information about Comal’s full menu and opening date, follow along at @comaltacosclt.
