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The award-winning Besito Mexican restaurant group is getting set to open its newest location in West Islip on Friday, Sept. 29, at 5 p.m.
“We are so excited; we can’t wait to open up the doors,” said Besito Mexican’s regional manager, Jose Reyes.
The goal at Besito is to provide that authentic feel of Mexico, says Reyes — from the hospitality to an array of dishes packed with flavor.
“We like to introduce a mini Mexican vacation to our guests every time they visit,” said Reyes.
GreaterBabylon previously reported that Besito Mexican was moving into the former Roots Bistro Gourmand spot at 399 Montauk Highway.
It’s the company’s third location on Long Island, and eighth restaurant in the U.S.
Besito’s founder and co-owner, restauranteur John Tunney, traveled and studied in Mexico for years before opening the first Besito location in Huntington.
His passion for Mexican cuisine and culture has translated into the success of the company, says Besito Mexican’s executive chef, Carlos Arellano.
“I think [Tunney] is Mexican,” said a laughing Arellano, “because he has all the flavors and passion for Mexican food.”
And the customers agree.
“Delicious Mexican food that’s prepared for any palette. Impressive presentation. The guacamole is a must!” wrote Yelper Brock J. about the Huntington location.
Arellano, who started with Besito since its inception in 2006, also helped design the menu.
“Besito has a lot of traditional and original [Mexican] dishes,” said Arellano, who grew up in Mexico City, where he and his family prepared everything from tacos to ceviches.
Besito’s food and cocktail menu are inspired by places like Mexico City, Juacca, Chihuahua, and Puebla, he said.
Arellano often travels back and forth to Mexico to find new ideas and keep up on the trends.
As of now, Besito Mexican in West Islip will be open for dinner only from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily, but will eventually introduce lunch hours.
What’s cooking
Here are some first-look shots of the Besito dishes in West Islip and all-new bar and dining area. (Photos by Nicholas Esposito)
Shrimp Jalisco
Sonora Ribs
Salmon Manchamanteles
Top: Bartender Erick Ortiz shakes up a drink behind the new Besito Mexican West Islip bar.
