Mexican restaurant coming to Wytheville

By WAYNE QUESENBERRY/Staff

Converting a former dress store into a restaurant is one of the obstacles facing businessman Felipe Reyes. Waiting for authentic handmade furniture from his home country is another.
Reyes expects to open El Patio Mexican Grill in the Wytheville Commons shopping center on Fourth Street in a couple of months. He owns similar restaurants in Bluefield and Bristol.
“We’re basically making a restaurant out of a dress store,” said Mark Zammit of Building & Design of Virginia Inc., whose company was hired by Reyes to renovate the former Cato store.
Reyes added, “We’re remodeling the entire store. That’s why it takes more time before we can open.”
He also pointed out there is a delay with crafting all the furniture by hand and tiles for the restaurant. All the furnishings, Reyes said, are being made in Mexico.
According to Reyes, the Wytheville eatery will have a seating capacity for 140 diners including a bar area. It will employ 10 to 15 workers and be managed by Patricia Hilton, who is general manager of the Bluefield restaurant.
“Wytheville is a perfect spot for the restaurant,” Reyes said. “It’s a nice town and in good shape for business.”
Wayne Quesenberry can be reached at 228-6611 or .