Clase Código took over the former Oakview Mall Applebee’s at 3350 South 143rd Plaza, transforming it into a modern Mexican kitchen built around flavor, consistency and hospitality.
It’s only been operating for a few weeks, yet it opened with a high Google rating and has held a steady 4.9 stars. The building might have the same Applebee’s structure, but the subtle exterior changes – white paint, black trim and understated-yet-elegant design – make it anything but. It looks like its own thing, which is exactly what they’re aiming for.
Part of that comes from director of operations Rudy Núñez, who has spent his life inside restaurants. He grew up in kitchens alongside his father in Cambria, Calif., learning fundamental skills at an early age before working his way through the industry ranks. He’s gone from dishwasher to line cook, bartender and general manager. It’s a career that’s taken him from Colorado to North Dakota when he was invited to help launch Clase Código.
The restaurant is backed by investor Juan Perez, a longtime restaurateur with successful operations in Fargo, N.D. and other parts of the country. Perez partnered with his good friend from Jalisco, Mexico, Alejandro Jaime, who serves as the Clase Código general manager. Manning the kitchen is chef Francisco who everyone just calls “Poncho.” He oversees the food program and is primed to grow with the restaurant as it looks toward eventual expansion…