Juno’s Kitchen & Delicatessen has officially closed its East Sacramento eatery, but the space won’t stay empty for long.
A new concept called Nene’s by La Costa is preparing to move into the former Juno’s space at 3675 J St, according to a recent Facebook post from Juno’s owner Mark Helm. The upcoming restaurant comes from Chef Ignacio Ortega of La Costa Cafe in Boulevard Park.
“Just wanted to let everyone know the Nene’s by La Costa will be taking over Juno’s very soon,” Helm wrote. “They’ll be serving Modern Mexican food and they are very excited to meet everyone.”
Last month, Juno’s announced that, after 15 years in business, the beloved neighborhood lunch spot and sourdough bakery would be closing its doors. However, Helm hasn’t stepped away from the industry.
On May 4, he officially took over operations at downtown’s Juju Kitchen & Cocktails, where he has already begun carrying over several customer favorites from Juno’s, including the popular Panko-Crusted Eggplant Sandwich.
Meanwhile, The Sacramento Bee reports that Nene’s will allow Ortega to dig deeper into his culinary roots, expanding beyond the ceviches and aguachiles La Costa has become known for. The menu is expected to focus on “elevated modern Mexican” fare inspired by popular Mexico City taquerias, particularly La Once Mil.
Among the dishes Ortega teased are open-faced enchiladas made with housemade tortillas, mole, salsa verde, and salsa roja. The tortillas will be crisped on one side and topped with proteins like thinly sliced Angus ribeye.
Nene’s also plans to serve breakfast burritos and torta de chilaquiles—a hearty sandwich layered with salsa-soaked tortilla chips on a soft bolillo roll, with the option to add chicken Milanesa.
An official opening date has not yet been announced, and Ortega could not be reached for comment. Keep an eye out for updates as Nene’s prepares to debut in East Sacramento.
