Mexico is closer than you think at this new Dallas restaurant. The lonesome cantina stands alone on Canton Street near the Farmers Market, notable for its historic Venetian Gothic charm passed down from its original owners, the Desco Tile and Marble Company.
Sor Juana is a botanería, serving up botanas, or “bar bites,” with every drink order (think tapas but Mexican), with the goal of being an inclusive third space. Alexandra Hernandez and Karla Soria co-own the business and run it with the help of Saul Hernandez, the bar manager.
“It’s vital that we have something like this,” Alexandra says. “I don’t think it’s political to have a space that welcomes everyone. I don’t think it’s political to have good drinks and food. I don’t think it’s political to want to represent where you come from and the community that’s built you, helped you succeed, and has given back to you.”
Notice of Collection | Terms | Privacy
- North Texas doughnut shops named among best in U.S.
Alexandra and Karla first met at a dance group five years ago, and their partnership blossomed after Alexandra returned from a trip to Mexico with the idea to open a cantina. At the time, Karla was undergoing a career transition and was on board with the plan.
Convivio
“Our conversation always went back to the loss in our culture of hanging out – in Spanish, it’s called “convivio” – just coming and spending time with each other, and talking, and they’re not being an agenda,” Karla says…