Gabe Bako's new Tex-Mex eatery in the former Serranos Salsa spot on Johnston Street, just a half mile from the Mexican restaurant where he worked for more than four decades, is welcoming customers this week.
A split earlier this year with La Fonda founder Leebob Cox's children, Stephanie Cox Gagnard and Sherwood Cox, led longtime general manager and part-owner Gabe Bako to venture out on his own. His new Tex-Mex concept, Bako's, opened today.
Bako partnered with La Fonda's former kitchen manager, Richard Dunbar (pictured left), and Sylvia Lopez in the new restaurant.
Photo by Robin May
A falling out over Stephanie and Sherwood's decision to fire Dunbar led to Bako's departure from La Fonda in February. At the time, Bako owned 50 percent of the restaurant, but Stephanie and Sherwood have since bought out his interest.
Bako's is open from 11 a.m. till 9 ("ish," Bako says) on Tuesday and Wednesday. Thursday through Saturday its hours are 11 a.m. till 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. (with brunch from 10:30 to 2). "The bar has extended hours," Bako says. "It just depends on how busy the bar is."
View the restaurant's website here and read more in this Sept. 28 Independent cover story, "Bako's New Tacos."