by TM Petaccia

Puerta, an agave/Mexican concept is set to open in July. TM Petaccia/UP

1957 Hospitality’s third leg of its restaurant presence on the corner of 7th and Pecan in Charlotte, Puerta, is set to open in July. The exact date is pending final inspections and approved permits.

Taking the space formally occupied by The Stanley, Puerta is an agave bar (tequila and mezcal) offering a variety of Mexican cuisine representative of several regions throughout the country. The name was inspired by the discovery of many hidden doors behind false walls during demolition and construction.

Puerta is 1957’s third dining concept in Charlotte’s Elizabeth neighborhood, the others being The Crunkleton and Rosemont Market & Wine Bar. The group also owns and operates Cheat’s Cheesesteak Parlor in the nearby Chantilly community.

A sneak peek of Puerta’s interior during final construction. TM Petaccia/UP

“When we took over Paul (Verica’s) lease, there was a very decisive and quick conversation about what the concept would be,” says Ryan Hart, director of concept development for 1957 Hospitality. “All of us love agave spirits and have wanted to do a bar focused on that category for a long time.”

RJ Corley has been named as Puerta’s executive chef. Corley is known for his work at The Debruce in New York, as well as BLT Steak and Tapas 51 in the Charlotte area. Cristian Villalvazo has been selected as his chef de cuisine.

“This concept grabbed me immediately because of my long-term love for Mexican food and culture,” Corley says. “Growing up in kitchens, I was able to develop relationships with people from all over Central America and Mexico. Being a young cook, those experiences helped mold my love for their cuisine and culture. With Puerta, I aim to tell the story of traditional Mexican cuisine and culture through my culinary experiences and that of my team.”

Phi Hoang will serve as general manager. Hoang is a long-time Charlotte hospitality veteran with several area restaurant concepts and has been with The Crunkleton since its inception. “The strategy is simple, sexy, and fun. We are excited to bring new energy to a bustling and exciting corner,” he says.

Micah Yarbrough another Crunkleton alumni who managed the bar program at Dos Santos in Denver, CO has been named bar manager and assistant general manager. The bar program will focus on Mexican-made spirits, beer, and wine. Cocktails will be regionally-inspired classics made with fresh juice and poured over clear ice into frozen glassware.

The restaurant includes an extensive sound system with a custom DJ booth for late-night entertainment.

“We’ve built an incredible team in the kitchen and in front of the house, and are excited to bring something new to Charlotte,” says 1957 partner Blake Thompson.