Sofia's targets Jan. 24 opening in South Huntsville
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Sofia's will host IHeartRadio on opening day, Jan. 24. Photo: Derek Lacey/Axios
Sofia's Roadside Cantina opens its doors Jan. 24.
Why it matters: Sofia's is bringing its flavor to the rapidly growing Hays Farm area in South Huntsville, aiming to build an inclusive, community-focused restaurant.
Zoom in: The restaurant is bringing authentic Mexican and Spanish-inspired flavors handed down from the Villarreal family's roots, said Kelly Villarreal, who owns the restaurant with her father Andy and uncle Jeff.
- Sofia was Kelly Villarreal's great-grandmother, per the website, and her recipes will influence the menu as well.
- The focus is on tacos, with the menu also offering house-made chips, rice bowls, burritos and margaritas.
What they're saying: "Everyone has a seat at the table, everyone has the opportunity," said Villarreal, whose son is autistic.
- To that end, Sofia's is working to partner with organizations like The Arc of Madison County, the state and Merrimack Hall to hire people with disabilities.
- "It's unreal what they do," she said of Merrimack Hall, adding that the restaurant hopes to partner with the organization for cooking classes or other activities.
Catch up quick: The Villarreals are also bringing decades of experience in the restaurant business. Andy Villareal is a former owner of more than 20 Domino's franchises in Decatur, Hartselle, Athens and Florence.
- He's also the owner of Rock N' Roll Sushi in South Huntsville, in the same shopping center (Market at Hays Farm), and owns several other franchises with Jeff.
The bottom line: Sofia's opens at 10:30am Jan. 24, off Haysland Road next door to Tom Brown's Restaurant.