El Cafecito owners target May opening for new venture

The owners of El Cafecito LLC have a new concept in the works near their year-old Latin-theme coffee shop.

Shanie Valdez, who owns El Cafecito with her husband, Cristhian, said a May 4 grand opening is targeted for El Escondite, a Mexican snack and drink establishment. El Escondite would be located at 2528 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. A, in the Old Town Centre, said Valdez, declining to disclose expected lease and startup expenses.

"We want to bring culture and authenticity to the community – something new and interesting is always fun," Valdez said via email, noting El Escondite also would have foosball, pingpong and arcade games.

El Escondite in Spanish translates to the hiding place, per Google Translate. The venture's Facebook page states El Escondite would be a "family-friendly hangout for authentic Mexican snacks, seafood and unique drinks."

At 2462 S. Campbell Ave., El Cafecito is across Glenwood Street from the Old Town Centre.

El Cafecito got its start in February 2023 at a former Asia Express building.