Acapulco finishes remodeling, debuts new look

DOWNEY -- After extensive remodeling, the Acapulco restaurant at Stonewood Center unveiled its fresh, new look at a grand re-opening last week. 

The restaurant features a new cantina, dining room, two outdoor patios, and an updated main entrance next to the indoor-outdoor bar. 

"Our guests are going to be blown away," said Bryan Lockwood, chief executive officer of Acapulco's parent company, Real Mex Restaurants. "The Acapulco brand has always been about the feeling of vacation and relaxation, served up with fresh food and drinks. The new redesign provides a perfect setting for that everyday escape. I couldn't be more pleased with the new look at our Downey location." 

The 9,250 sq. ft., 255-seat restaurant has occupied its same location at Firestone and Lakewood boulevards since 1989. Its re-design was inspired by vacations to Mexico and resorts of the Mexican Riviera, company officials said. 

The renovated cantina features a new tile floor, bar top, and all new stools, tables and chairs. The bold painted wall treatment was inspired by intricate Mexican tiles. 

The tables, chairs, booths and light fixtures in the dining room are also new, and the decor is highlighted with the restaurant's own take on vintage travel posters from the resort region. 

A fireplace was added to the dining area, along with a firewall to the front patio. The 20-ft. long, glass-enclosed trough has flames dancing up above the patio wall. 

In addition to the makeover, Acapulco also revamped its menu to include dishes like chimichurri poke tacos, pozole by the sea, crab and shrimp enchiladas, and tropical salmon. A coconut margarita was added to the cocktail list, along with an Oreo cookie ice cream torte to the dessert menu. 

The remodeled Acapulco will employ 130 workers, with an additional 20 expected to be hired by mid-September, company officials said.