We’ve got an update on a story we’ve been following since early 2024. That’s when we first reported on plans for a Mexican restaurant at the East Gate Marketplace shopping center in the South Riding/Chantilly area of southern Loudoun.
Originally, we believe the restaurant was going to be called Taco Express. Later, it was listed at Recalde’s Tex-Mex. Well, it looks like the third time is the charm.
We now know that the new restaurant – which is close to opening – will be called El Jefe Tacos & Cantina. (“El Jefe” means “The Boss” in Spanish.)
Construction is nearly finished on the new fast-casual restaurant and the signage has gone up on the facade out front.
El Jefe will sit right next door to the new Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken location that is in the works for the former Marco’s Pizza space in the center.
Also, while it may be fast casual – meaning you order at a counter – there will also be a bar with a bartender, so beers and perhaps even margaritas will be available.
We’re told the El Jefe team is still putting the final touches on the menu – and if all goes smoothly, the are hoping to be ready to open sometime in September.