Southern Proper Hospitality to Open Chido + Padre’s in April, Bringing Baja to Buckhead

This year, when Baja beckons for a spring break, Atlantans can zip to Buckhead where Chido + Padre’s, the newest concept from Southern Proper Hospitality (SPH), will deliver the bold flavors, traditions and spirit of the Baja Peninsula’s vivacious culture. Set to open in early April, the restaurant will fill the Smokebelly BBQ space at 128 East Andrews Drive. “From Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas, we have visited Western Mexico often and have fallen in love with the food, people and way of life there. We wanted to create an authentic concept that would transport some of these customs to Atlanta in a modern way,” says SPH CEO Tony Bartlett. “Chido + Padre’s will celebrate Mexico’s fresh, coastal cuisine and bring a fun and festive party to Buckhead.”

What’s in a name? Chido and Padre personify the notion that opposites attract -- Chido being the mischievous risk taker, while Padre is the do-gooder voice of reason -- purposefully pleasing foodies and families with fresh, elevated Baja-Mex fare, festive atmosphere (think birthday celebrations with sombreros) and convenient parking while tequila-ing the fancies of the after-work and party crowd with strong drinks, modern food and a high-energy vibe. Executive chef Benjamin Meyer, also SPH’s corporate chef, will employ a mesquite wood-burning grill and fresh flavor combos on the lunch and dinner menus. Look for mesquite-grilled meats and seafood, campechana, vegetarian tamales, chicken mole, smoked brisket tacos, enchiladas and other authentic dishes, along with a wide variety of botanas (dips) such as queso, house salsas and made-to-order guacamoles. An upscale yet approachable beverage program will feature margaritas, cocktails, tequilas, wine and a variety of Mexican, domestic and craft beers. Appealing to guests’ Chido side, the edgy Bandida Bar will emphasize tequila and mezcal varietals and off-the-menu cocktail creations. Chido + Padre’s continues the SPH tradition of providing a “short-term escape” for diners by appealing to a sense of adventure -- in this case, it’s that authentic Baja-Mex experience, right here, and almost right now. Can’t wait until April brings this “spring break.”  For more information, visit chidoandpadres.com.