New Tex-Mex chain with a hot sauce bar bringing Tijuana style to the Bluegrass

A Florida-based taco chain that has its own hot sauce line is expanding into Kentucky.

Tijuana Flats , a Tex-Mex quick-service restaurant, is coming to a location just off Winchester Road near I-75 and the Hamburg shopping area. The Lexington location is expected to open in mid-November at 2344 Elkhorn Rd. Suite 100, in front of the Lowe’s.

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Despite the name, Tijuana Flats started in Florida; it’s expanded to three other states and is now coming to Kentucky. The Lexington restaurant will be the first location in Kentucky; at least two more locations could be coming to the Lexington/Central Kentucky area.

What is on the menu at Tijuana Flats?

The restaurant has a menu of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos and flautas and other Tex-Mex favorites, all made-to-order. Signature dishes include the Garlic Lime Shrimp Tacos and Street Tacos.

What sets Tijuana Flats apart? Everything is served “Tijuana style” with fresh jalapenos, onions, lettuce and tomatoes. And everything comes with fresh tortilla chips. Always.

Besides queso, salsa and guacamole, the menu has cilantro lime rice, refried beans, black beans, corn salsa and churro fries for sides.

Take-home taco and burrito kits are available and they also cater DIY taco bars for parties or the office.

The menu also has desserts, including a Churro Sundae.

The restaurants also feature the Hot Bar, with an assortment of 14 specialty hot sauces from sweet to spicy.

Restaurant founder Brian Wheeler also has his own hot sauce line called “Smack My Ass & Call Me Sally” that you can also order online.

There are Tijuana Flats locations in Florida, Alabama, North Carolina and Tennessee. The privately held chain emerged from bankruptcy earlier this year after closing some locations.

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