Two new eateries opening in early February

Tacos and lots more are coming to Agave & Rye. (Courtesy of Agave & Rye.)

Hello: | Agave & Rye |

| @agaveandrye |

When Ward 426 closed last summer, there was plenty of speculation as to what might land there. We later learned that a chain concept called Agave & Rye, and we hear it will open Feb. 9.

Billed as a “tequila and bourbon hall,” it also features a menu crammed with 19 “epic” tacos to go with 85 and 87 selections of the aforementioned, respectively. The menu veers in and out of Mexican, Asian fusion and southern, Kentucky-friendly dishes, among others. Dishes range from Hot Brown sliders to sesame chicken legs to tacos like the Alderman (carne asada with some cool toppings) to the vegan-friendly Sutan.

Other tacos that cross culinary lines include one with Jamaican jerk mahi mahi, one that mimics a po boy with crispy shrimp and the Crown Jewel, which is a tortilla stuffed with poached lobster, sautéed mushrooms and truffle mac and cheese. Oh, for the less adventurous, try the Plain Jane, which is ground beef, lettuce, tomato, cheese and sour cream.

Agave & Rye locations are already operating in Covington and Lexington (along with one in Ohio), but the Louisville one will have its own unique flavor, with a vintage arcade. The décor also features elaborate wall murals and an “urban grunge” feel, according to some descriptions.

The original in Kentucky opened just two years ago, so the small chain is seeing rapid growth. Should be an interesting addition to the Baxter Avenue corridor at 426 Baxter, just steps from Gravely Brewing and Spinelli’s, among others.

Second Carali’s Rotisserie opening Feb. 14

Hello: | Carali’s Rotisserie Chicken |

| @caralisrotisserie |

Meanwhile, in Middletown, Carali’s Rotisserie Chicken will open its second location on Valentine’s Day at 9148 Taylorsville Road. Middletowners, if you haven’t tried it yet downtown on 5th Street, we think you’re going to love it – the holiday part is just a coincidence.

Similar to the beloved Yummy Pollo, Carali’s serves Peruvian-style chicken with freshly-made sides like yuca fries, plantains, black beans, cilantro rice and lots more. The menu also has options like wraps, bowls a chicken sandwich and a few appetizers. And don’t forget the signature sauces.

We’ve dined for lunch at the downtown location, so beforewarned that, much like at Yummy Pollo, the portions don’t skimp at Carali’s. A two-piece meal comes with a pair of sides, and that makes for a hearty lunch. But if you’re feeling it, a half bird with two sides is yours for just $11.49. (You can always get a doggy bag.)

A third Carali’s is under construction and expected to open soon at the corner of Baxter Avenue and Broadway.