Marc Bianchini, owner of Osteria del Mondo and Cubanita's, has joined forces with Juan's Mexicali, 8880 S. Howell Ave. in Oak Creek. Bianchini will work with the other owners, Tim Dertz and Jason Fox of Lava Java and the Fifth Ward Development, to take the restaurant to the next level.
"Tim and Jason really have excellent business minds and I'm looking forward to positioning Juan's as a leader in the fast-casual restaurant business," said Bianchini. "I think you're going to be seeing Juan's popping up all over the city, county and state."
Juan's, a Mexican/Californian blend restaurant, is based in Denver. The Oak Creek location opened in December 2004, and according to Juan's spokesperson Mary Christine, they plan to open more chains in the future.
"There is talk of Waukesha County next with more talk of (one opening) closer to downtown," said Christine.
Although similar to Qdoba and Chipotle, Juan's has more seafood options -- such as mahi tacos and salmon wrap -- and the tortillas are made in front of customers. Also, customers do not have to wait at the counter for their orders, which are delivered to the table.
"You can purchase the dips like at a grocery store, and the range of sauces is like no other restaurant," said Christine.
Prices are moderate, ranging from $2.25 to $5.99. Beer, wine and margaritas are on the menu for over-21 customers.
"We really want to create a relaxing environment for our guests, with the most difficult part of their visit being deciding what to order," said Bianchini.