By TONY TAGLAVORE, Journal Services
Casa Jimador, the popular Mexican food restaurant on Line Avenue in Shreveport which prides itself on providing “A high class dining experience for an affordable price,” is expanding to two new locations.
Last Friday, Casa Jimador owner Ramiro Gutierrez closed a deal to purchase Cantina Laredo in Shreveport’s Shoppes at Bellemead, located between Youree Drive and Kings Highway. Cantina Laredo has been serving gourmet Mexican food for 18 years. It was last sold a year-and-a-half ago to a restaurateur in Texarkana, Arkansas.
“I love the location,” Gutierrez told the Shreveport-Bossier Journal soon after the transaction was final. “I have a lot of respect for the people of Shreveport. I will do my best”
The plan is for Cantina Laredo to remain open 2-3 more weeks. The restaurant will then close for a few weeks while renovations are made. When the restaurant
re-opens, it is expected to bear the name Casa Cantina, building off Casa Jimador’s popularity and Cantina Laredo’s longevity.
“We’re going to have the same concept at both places.” Gutierrez said. “We will be sister restaurants.”
This isn’t the only expansion for Gutierrez. He will soon open a Casa Jimador in North Bossier.
“My customers are what make a successful restaurant,” Gutierrez said. “My job is to provide the best for them, and that’s what I know how to do.”
Locally-owned restaurants have struggled in recent years, due in large part to rising food costs, and difficulty in hiring and keeping good staff. However, Gutierrez has a firm belief in what makes a successful restaurant.
“Consistency. Consistency and being friendly to your customers.”
Contact Tony at SBJTonyT@gmail.com
