Underbelly Hospitality has collaborated with Nixt, a distinguished Mexico City-based restaurant group led by the acclaimed Chef Luis Robledo Richards, to introduce Comalito. This establishment will take the place of Underbelly’s Texas-centric concept, Wild Oats, situated at the Houston Farmers Market, 2520 Airline Dr.
Comalito aims to bring Mexico City’s finest taqueria experiences to Houston with offerings like tacos al pastor, tacos de parrilla, and an array of vibrant salsas. The menu also promises a generous selection for vegans and vegetarians. The restaurant’s dedication to local sourcing is evident, with ingredients procured from the Houston Farmers Market and proteins from Texas’s R-C Ranch.
Nina Quincy, President of Underbelly Hospitality, in regards to Comalito’s placement said, “Comalito came up a couple years ago, and it was more about looking for the perfect space for it and really understand where it would work. And then the idea came up to put it in the current Wild Oats space. It just fits the area better.”
Further enhancing its authentic approach, Comalito’s tortillas will be made from heirloom corn imported from Central Mexico, transformed on-site using the nixtamalization technique. Plans also include a large-scale tortilla manufacturing section within the restaurant to be introduced at a later stage.
Robledo Richards, chef of Comalito, expressing his alignment with Underbelly Hospitality’s values, shared, “Comalito is our tribute to the iconic taquerias in Ciudad de Mexico. We’re eager to showcase the rich, traditional flavors of Mexican cuisine with a tortilla program unlike any other, backed by a skilled team from Mexico City.”
Patrons can also anticipate an unparalleled mezcal, tequila, and cocktail selection perfectly paired with the food. Comalito will initially offer lunch and dinner services, with plans to branch out into breakfast and brunch menus soon.
Quincy in closing told What Now Houston, “For me personally, I just can’t wait to eat the food. Luis and his team of chefs are just so talented!”
With the Wild Oats location set for its new home next to Underbelly Burger, it’s sister brand’s second and newest location, in a three-unit complex at 1222 Witte Rd., it was a the perfect opportunity for Underbelly to continue utilizing the space with a minimal build-out for a quick transition into its newest concept.
Come September 3, 2023, Wild Oats’ Heights outpost will conclude its presence, followed by the Spring Branch inaugurations of Wild Oats and its sibling, Underbelly Burger, in October 2023. Comalito will also have its grand opening in October 2023 as well.
