With a culinary resume including Michelin-star restaurants and hotel hotspots like Miami's Dilido Beach Club at The Ritz Carlton, Andres Meraz had his pick of restaurant jobs after moving from Miami to Texas. But the high-profile chef channeled his roots when he decided to open a restaurant of his own back in 2016. Boca 31, known for serving elevated Latin street food, has been wowing Denton foodies for years. And after seeing a great deal of social media love, flood of positive reviews, lines out the door during weekend service and a committed and diverse set of regulars become his local fan base, Meraz decided it was time for his next venture.
He opened up Boca 31's second location in Keller Town Center in July and brought his vibrant creations along with it. It quickly became a local, laid-back spot for people who wanted more than the typical Tex-Mex. Their everyday menu appears to have everything diners have come to expect with the region's cuisine – tacos, empanadas and rice bowls served à la carte. But their combination of fresh ingredients and bold spices is anything but ordinary. The Chipotle Barbacoa Beef Taco, served on a fresh corn tortilla and garnished with a house Aji Amarillo Coleslaw and pico de gallo, pairs a hearty protein with light toppings, making for a beautifully balanced bite. And the Pork Chile Verde Empanadas, made from scratch, use a slow-cooked pork which makes the filling burst out with flavor.
“We are offering a different approach on our plates,” Meraz says. “We also have a couple bigger plates for people to share.”
Boca 31 may be most known for their specials. Meraz shares a limited-time offering on social media every day that guests can come in and try during lunch and dinner service. He uses their reaction and engagement with each dish as a way to find new dishes he can add onto the regular menu.
“We modifying a couple things as we go depending on what people like,” Meraz says. “When you come in, expect something different.”
Don't leave without grabbing a pop to go. Their mango-passionfruit is a light yet sweet option for the kids, while the lime, made with freshly squeezed juice, offers a zesty kick that refreshes the palate after a long meal full of great dishes.