December 31, 2017

The Weekly Bite: URBANA in ANAHEIM PACKING DISTRICT

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to ANAHEIM PACKING DISTRICT’s URBANA.

What’s the URBANA story? The who/what/when/where/why?
Its ‘Dia de los Muertos’ every day at URBANA, the Anaheim Packing House’s most colorful restaurant. Farm Fresh Mexican inspired plates created by Chef Ernie Alvarado. Complementing the menu, URBANA’S sexy departure on craft cocktails featuring Tequila and Mezcal favorites as well as top shelf agave spirits. Massive smiling murals a tribute to owner Javier Cuadra Michoacán upbringing where ‘Dia de los Muertos’ is celebrated define URBANA.

Owner Javier Cuadra was born and raised “in the belly” of Mexico, Zamora Michoacán. Javier Cuadra is a Real Estate Entrepreneur and International Exporter of seasonal organic berries from Mexico to the United States. Zamora, Mexico has an abundance of culture and delectable street food which influenced Javier into opening a restaurant sharing México’s finest offerings. Teamed with the artistry of Chef Ernie Alvarado, they have turned Michoacán street food into a hearty and healthy addition to the Anaheim Packing House family. Using natural and fresh ingredients including handmade tortillas, gourmet tacos and snapper ceviche, Mexican cuisine takes a colorful twist.

In speaking with any restaurateurs I’ve come to learn that the restaurant business can be brutal. How has it been for you? What’s been the hardest part?
Introducing a elevation Mexican gastronomy experience in general has been a challenge, but the outcome has been amazing. URBANA recently won the Golden Foodie award presented by the Restaurant Association for Best Mexican Restaurant in Orange county. Many customers expect fillers such as rice and beans. Chef Ernie Alvarado does not believe in fillers, he wants you to experience his culinary creations a la cart.

What we love about independent, non-chain restaurants is that the independents bring new ideas forward. What’s interesting or unique about URBANA
Our decor is based on ‘Dia de los muertos’ from Michoacan, Mexico. All of the decor is from Michoacan. Dark setting, candle lit ambience with two ‘Catrina’ murals from die de los metros. Ask for a side of our house made mole on our Dorado tacos, life changer 🙂

Most Popular Items

SANTO DIA

whiskey, watermelon, fresh lime juice, fizz

TACO TRIO

ARRACHERA Steak: guacamole, pico de Gallo, salsa, queso fresco, handmade tortilla
PORK BELLY: house pickled daikon & carrot, cilantro aioli, handmade tortilla
AL PASTOR: CHILI OIL, QUESO FRESCO, PICKLED ONION, HANDMADE TORTILLA