'Mexican bistro' opens in Glen Ellyn

A new restaurant described as a "Mexican bistro" has opened in Glen Ellyn, serving everything from pork tacos with pineapple pico de gallo to fresh oysters.

Called a toda madre, the restaurant officially opened its doors Tuesday at Main Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. It had a soft opening during the weekend, and is operating in the spot formerly occupied by the Honey Cafe.

A toda madre also has a sister restaurant in Geneva.

Rodrigo Cano, the restaurant's director of operations, said the bistro-style menu is distinguished by its variety.

"You can find fresh, raw oysters up to tacos and bigger plates like carne asada or a whole grilled fish with tortillas and salad on the side," he said.

"Nowadays, Mexican food is so diverse, we just want to put a little bit of everything and make it fun in a modern way."

Tuesday's menu included tacos, appetizers like "tostada de ceviche" with tilapia, and bigger dishes like chilaquiles with tortilla chips, morita-epazote salsa, fried egg, pork belly, queso fresco, crema and onion.

But the tacos are the core of the menu, Cano said. They are filled with a variety of toppings including sauteed shrimp, crispy beer battered tilapia, grilled skirt steak and chorizo.

A toda madre also has a bar and serves wine, beer and cocktails.

The menu will change seasonally, and the restaurant is going to incorporate daily and weekly specials, Cano said. The spot is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.

For Cano, the layout of the restaurant itself is designed to emphasize community.

The tables are small so guests can order different plates and share with friends and family, and are close to each other to create a "communal feel," he said.

Cano said Glen Ellyn has been very welcoming, with some other business owners even bringing gifts.