A couple of weeks back we shared that Starland Yard was getting two new tenants in the form of new ‘brick and mortar’ permanent restaurants that were being built out at the popular food truck court. At the time, we could not divulge names and details because that information was being left to the individual owners and operators.
Well now we have one.
One of the eateries on the way is called “Nixtate.” A Mexican food spot that will be creating a series of bites and dishes inspired by corn. Yes, as in tortillas, flautas, masas and more. We can’t really call it a taqueria, though, because you won’t necessarily find tacos when you visit. Sound confusing? Well, it shouldn’t be.
Ken and Seana Corona, transplanted Angelenos, are the couple behind the concept. Inspired by Ken’s Mexican heritage and Seana’s culinary background, they wanted to create something different. Something they could make in house every day and something that would be a good fit for the street food crowd that regularly visits Starland Yard.
The Coronas moved to Savannah a couple of years ago. They had a home renovated downtown. While they were waiting for that home to be finished, they actually set up shop in Charleston. That’s where this idea started to take root. They held pop ups there and began to develop a following, all the while knowing that they were about to move to Savannah.
Once they got here, they toyed with the idea of opening small space to continue grow. Through a few chance conversations, they found out Starland Yard was going to be expanding.
“I actually cold emailed them.” Seana says. She went to the website and fired off a note of interest. But they never heard back.
“Months later we found out the email had gone to a spam folder.” When that got sorted out, the interest was immediate.
“They (Starland Yard reps) actually came to Charleston to one of our pop ups.” She says.
They will be occupying one of the two containers being added to the Starland Yard footprint as we speak. Each of the containers will have windows out on to DeSoto Avenue, which will offer access to their food without the need to enter the ‘Yard.’
“We have plans for some sweets and coffees in the morning.” Seana says of the use of that window. Obviously in the evening hours when traffic is significantly higher in the neighborhood, there will be opportunities to grab some of their quick bites and sit anywhere you can find a spot. Or, of course, take it home.
The visuals from their Instagram page are pretty stunning. This food looks fantastic. Elote Dumplings (!!), Sopes, Molotes, Enchiladas (photo at top of the page) and of course a variety of desserts. One that caught my eye was a Mexican chocolate cookie (packing a tiny bit of heat, of course) made into an ice cream sandwich using Leopold’s Ice Cream and rolled in spicy peanuts. I’ll be looking forward to that one.
I’m already looking forward to all of it, actually. But we are going to have to wait. As is the case with any construction project, it’s going to take a minute. Ken told me his realistic expectation to getting the doors open is January 2024. If it happens sooner, then we will all be pleasantly surprised.
In the meantime, give them a follow on IG and of course, we will keep you posted as we get close to masa time at Nixtate at Starland Yard.
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