New Family-Owned Mexican Gem Opens in Dallas’ Lakewood Neighborhood: Las Favela Restaurant
The culinary landscape in Dallas just got a little brighter with the grand opening of Las Favela, a delightful new Mexican restaurant nestled in the Lakewood neighborhood. Located at 7260 Gaston Ave, this family-owned eatery takes over the space that formerly housed Andrea’s Italian, which closed its doors in 2023 after nearly a decade of thriving service. While Andrea’s was a beloved fixture in the community, Las Favela promises to bring its own unique charm and flavor to the table.
A Flourishing Family Legacy in Every Bite
Las Favela is the vision of sisters Elvira and Josefina Favela, along with Josefina’s daughter Natalie. With Elvira as the head chef, the restaurant boasts an impressive culinary pedigree. Elvira has spent an impressive 42 years honing her skills in the kitchen, with experience in major establishments such as the Anatole, the Texas Rangers, Dallas Mavericks, Lava Cantina, and Eataly. Her expertise shines through in every dish, making this a place where every bite tells a story.
Josefina, a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich background in sales, and Natalie, who worked alongside her aunt Elvira at Lava Cantina, combine their skills and passion to create a genuinely family-oriented dining experience. The trio’s dedication is palpable, and it’s clear they’re excited to welcome both newcomers and Andrea’s loyal customers into their new establishment.
“When I heard that Andrea’s was closing, I realized this was an opportunity for us to start our own family restaurant,” Josefina recalls, highlighting their deep connection to the previous locale.
A Taste of Home Decorated with Memories
The Favela sisters’ roots can be traced back to their childhood in La Laguna, a small town in Zacatecas, Mexico. This rich heritage is woven into the very fabric of Las Favela’s decor. Visitors can expect to see vases known as vasijas de barro, traditional pottery from Mexico, as well as sombreros adorning the walls—some personal mementos from their father—and colorful tabletops embellished with tiles hand-painted by their nephew.
Elvira reflects on the restaurant’s ambiance, saying, “We wanted to show where we are from and remember our beginnings.” The sentiment is not just decorative but also deeply emotional, especially considering the restaurant’s name serves as a tribute to their late father, who passed away in June while the family was busy putting the finishing touches on the restaurant.
“This is a way to honor his life. He raised us and he helped with the space,” Elvira explains, illustrating the deep family bonds that are central to this establishment.
A Menu that Caters to All Palates
Las Favela’s expansive menu showcases a blend of over 80 delectable items, carefully crafted to appeal to a diverse clientele. Ranging from breakfast to dinner, the menu thoughtfully encompasses dishes designed for all ages and preferences. Prices are competitive, ensuring that families can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
Signature dishes include traditional favorites with a family twist like Enchiladas La Laguna, Nachos La Torre, Camarones a La Diabla, Milanesas, and Street Elote, with prices ranging from to . One standout offering is the “Don Juve” sharable plate—a lovely homage to their father—featuring flautas, stuffed jalapeños, quesadillas, fried shrimp, and French fries for just .
“Our portions are very generous,” Elvira assures. “Most people have leftovers. That’s how we were raised; at our family gatherings, we always cooked more than enough for everyone to take home.”
Sweet Treats and Refreshing Sips
No meal at Las Favela is complete without indulging in one of their tempting desserts. Choices like warm Chocolate Bread Pudding, Churros, Mini Sopapillas, and the classic Tres Leches cake are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Additionally, Las Favela takes pride in crafting their own Aguas Frescas using seasonal fruits like watermelon, hibiscus, mango, and coconut, ensuring a fresh and invigorating experience with every sip.
Not to be overlooked, the restaurant offers a robust breakfast menu that ranges from Mexican specials like Migas and Burritos to American classics such as pancakes, parfaits, omelets, and French toast. To wash it all down, guests can enjoy a full bar featuring margaritas, vampiros made with fresh juices, and traditional Jarritos de Barro Mexicanos—cocktails served in authentic clay glasses.
Join the Festivities at Las Favela
With a seating capacity of over 100 and ample parking, Las Favela is ready to accommodate families and friends alike. The restaurant operates from 9 AM to 9 PM, Sunday to Thursday, and extends its hours to 9 AM to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday. While the space is already buzzing with life, plans are in motion for an outdoor area that will create an even more inviting atmosphere for diners.
Las Favela is not merely a restaurant; it’s a heartfelt homage to family, culture, and culinary tradition. So whether you’re a longtime fan of Mexican cuisine or eager to explore new flavors, Las Favela is a must-visit destination in Dallas’ Lakewood neighborhood. Dive into a world of authentic flavors, and enjoy the essence of a family that truly loves what they do.
