Frida’s owner will open Diego’s in University City next year

Frida’s chef-owner Natasha Kwan and husband Rick Roloff will open Diego’s, a Mexican eatery at 630 North and South Road in University City in spring 2019.

Unlike its vegetarian sister eatery, Kwan said Diego’s will serve meat. “We will have chicken, fish and beef. I’m not apologizing for that,” she said. “This is a restaurant that’s completely different, going back into those roots that my husband has.”

Roloff grew up in Laguna Vista, a small town in Texas that borders Mexico. Diego’s menu will feature traditional Mexican food such as enchiladas, burritos and quesadillas, as well as several vegetarian options.

“I need to have be able to have creativity and provide some modern flair here or there,” Kwan said.

Kwan said she was excited to open just a few doors down from her first eatery.

“It’s so important that we have that neighborhood place where you could go grab a drink with your friends or family and walk home,” she said. “We’re investing in our community.” 

As for the bar program, “lots of tequila, lots of mezcal, lots of margaritas.” In addition to a wide array of fresh, citrus-oriented margarita options, one of Kwan’s favorite prospective beverages is her turmeric, pepper and salt-rimmed Bloody Maria. 

“I can’t tell you how awesome turmeric is in a drink,” she said. 

Diego’s will also have the more traditional beers and cocktails one would expect from a neighborhood bar.

Kwan anticipates the space will accommodate between 160 and 200 people.

Monica Obradovic is an editorial intern at Sauce Magazine.