A new restaurant, Lil Mama’s Restaurant, has plans to open in Edgewood in March, in a spot which previously had the East Mountain Grill, also known as Katrinah’s East Mountain Grill, on 150 State Road 344.
The East Mountain Grill was a beloved restaurant in the community for years, but in November of last year the restaurant announced on Facebook the business would be closing due to issues involving the building.
“Due to problems arising with the building, I am choosing to shut down operations temporarily,” the Facebook post stated. “While I do have plans for a new facility, I do not want to put anyone’s health or safety at risk while getting that set up. We are looking forward to seeing everyone when the new place is ready.”
The new restaurant owners, Dominique Muller and his fiancé Celeste Salazar, have both worked in the restaurant industry in Edgewood. Muller was a former cook and manager at Chili Hills Restaurant and a former cook at the East Mountain Grill. Salazar was a server at Chili Hills Restaurant and has worked there for 15 years.
“We understand that everyone loved the East Mountain Grill and it has been here forever, but I believe a little bit of change can bring something back to the community,” Muller said. “We have a lot of people who know us from the Edgewood community. We want to bring back homemade cooking.”
Muller said that through inspection, there were no issues with the restaurant’s building, except for a small leak. He said they fixed the leak and even installed new flooring.
“I have always wanted to own my own restaurant,” Salazar said. “I have loved serving the community and want to continue. We wanted to change the name and give the building a fresh new start. Hopefully we will satisfy the community and make it a great place for people to come and hang out with their friends and family and enjoy good food.”
Lil Mama’s Restaurant will offer New Mexican food along with coffee and deserts. The business will operate Tuesday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and will be closed on Monday.
“I loved East Mountain Grill so it is sad they shut down, but I am excited to try this new restaurant, especially if they have New Mexican food and coffee,” said Renee Ringeisen, who works at Busy Bee Quilts which is located in the same shopping center as Lil Mama’s Restaurant.
Muller said they have opened applications and for right now, are looking to hire 15 employees; they are also open to hiring former employees of the East Mountain Grill. While they own the business and will have managerial positions, Muller will also cook and Salazar will be a server.
“A lot of restaurants out here are more focused on putting money in their pockets rather than giving to the community,” Muller said. “We will be helping the community as much as they help us.”