Southern Proper Hospitality says “Hola,” to Jonathan Mercado as executive chef for Chido + Padre’s, the company’s newest concept, which will bring bold Baja-style Mexican food, tequila and fiesta to 128 East Andrews Drive in Buckhead starting March 13. Take a look at some of the authentically Baja-Mex fresh, coastal cuisine he’ll turn out from a mesquite wood-burning grill for guests to enjoy: campechana with mango, avocado, rock shrimp, chilies and tomato-clam broth; Baja-style fish of the day with coconut rice, tomatillo-avocado sauce and pomegranate seeds; chicken mole with Baja cabbage slaw, black beans and sesame seeds; and cochinita pibil tacos with banana leaf pork shoulder, sour orange, achiote and chicharrones. Well versed in Mexican cuisine, Mercado honed his skills making handcrafted tacos and made-from-scratch Mexican fare as executive chef at Bartaco and Rosa Mexicano. The graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy is passionate about eco-friendly, self-sustainable cuisine and having fun in the kitchen. The chef and his family often host their own Iron Chef-style competitions at home. Chido + Padre’s will initially serve lunch and dinner and add weekend brunch at a later date. Free on-site self-parking.
