Reviewed by: Caleb Turrentine
New Tuscaloosa restaurant Santos Street Eats brings international flavors
Reading time: 3 minutes
Tuscaloosa is set to welcome a flavorful new chapter this summer: Santos Street Eats and Bar.
A 2022 graduate of UA, owner Giovanni Orozco is in-tune with the current culture surrounding town. Guests can expect modern global flair and an inviting space at his new restaurant ideal for foodies, game-watchers, and casual hangouts.
Global Street Fare, Made From Scratch
Orozco wants each bite to celebrate authenticity, and his menu is inspired by around seven different countries.
“Everything is made in house. Every sauce, every marinade, everything on the menu is made from scratch. I think something that sets us apart is the time and effort we put into every single dish that comes out.”
Giovanni Orozco, owner
The Birria tacos are a great example of this dedication, with a six-hour cook time to create deep flavors. It is one of Orozco’s proudest dishes that he expects to be popular.
Other menu highlights include:
- Fried Catfish Tacos
- Kansas City Nachos
- Korean Pork Belly Bowl
- Dixie Sliders
- Mexican Street Corn
Craft Cocktails
Santos has two full bars, one indoors and one outside. The patio is being remodeled at the back of the building and will have space for around 160 people, with TVs for watching sports.
As for their specialty cocktails, Orozco recommends the “Chlojito”, a coconut mojito inspired by one of the bartenders. For those craving a classic, he recommends their Old Fashioned.
“We make a great Old Fashioned, with a praline sweetener. I think bourbon and nutty flavors go really well together.”
Giovanni Orozco, owner
Securing a liquor license wasn’t without its challenges. The City Council had concerns around parking and late-night hours at the location where Santos is set to open.
Orozco worked with officials to adjust hours and gained approval with a midnight closing time from Thursday through Sunday.
“In the future, with approval from the city, we hope to be open later until 2 AM.”
Giovanni Orozco, owner
With inventive dishes, handcrafted cocktails and a patio designed for gathering, Santos Street Eats and Bar is sure to spice up Tuscaloosa’s dining scene.
Are you looking forward to the opening of Santos Street Eats and Bar? Let us know by tagging The Bama Buzz on Instagram, X, Facebook + LinkedIn.
13618 views
