On Thursday, Miguel and Cecilia Xicohtencatl unveiled two new restaurants, each inspired by the culture and cuisine of their Mexican heritage. The couple, already established restaurateurs, opened the first location of Las Cositas Deliciosas in 2015. The new restaurants, El Popo and the second location of Cositas Deliciosas, are located at 402 Sargent Dr. in New Haven.

A Dream Realized

Miguel has dreamed of opening El Popo for many years. He began washing dishes at a West Haven restaurant and bar with his father in 2002. After years of searching for the right location, the couple finally found it on Long Wharf. The name El Popo comes from the Popocatépetl volcano in Puebla, the home province of Miguel.

The restaurants are connected, with El Popo offering a bar, restaurant tables, and event space, while Cositas Deliciosas features a café with candy jars, tropical fruit, and tubs of ice cream. Local architect Fernando Pastor designed the interior of El Popo, inspired by Puebla, with colorful ceramic tiles and figurines sourced directly from the province.

A Celebration of Culture

The grand opening of the restaurants was celebrated by the community, with over three dozen people gathering to mark the occasion. New Haven State Rep. Juan Candelaria attended the event, describing the openings as both an example of the American dream and a service to the Hispanic community.

Cecilia’s favorite dish is tamales, a traditional Mexican dish made from a corn-based dough. Miguel’s favorite item on their menu is carne enchilada tacos, made with tender, spiced meat. The couple is committed to serving delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine to the community.

Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.