MXCO – Tortilleria, Taqueria & Cocktailbar
José Manuel Cruz Martinez brings the flavors of Mexico City to Stockholm with MXCO, featuring homemade corn flour, freshly made tortillas, and a cocktail and bar menu that highlights mezcal and tequila. MXCO is a complete experience, offering authentic food, drink, and atmosphere.
“A visit to MXCO should feel like stepping into a lively neighborhood taqueria from my hometown, Mexico City,” says José.
At MXCO, the focus is on using the finest ingredients to create authentic Mexican cuisine. The tortilla is the heart of the perfect taco, which is why maize is imported from Mexican farmers Edgar and Paco. The maize is transformed into nixtamal and then used in the tortilla press, fresh for every guest, every night.
The kitchen at MXCO is divided into three sections: a seafood and fish station offering ceviche and cocktails, a snacks and sides section for extras like made-to-order guacamole, and a trompo station where various meats for different Pastor tacos are grilled on classic rotisseries.
“We’ll be offering everything from the best Quesabirria to three different kinds of Pastor, and hopefully some new flavors you haven’t seen anywhere else in town,” says José.
The drinks at MXCO are just as carefully crafted as the food. Bar manager Brenda Corghi, formerly of Trädgården and an expert in mezcal and tequila, has collaborated with Björn Kjellberg to create unique cocktails for the restaurant. The cocktail menu features updated versions of classics, including a tequila-based Negroni, a watermelon-infused Paloma, and of course, Margaritas, with a whole lime freshly squeezed for each order.
“We’re planning to roll around a drinks cart with unique bottles of tequila and mezcal to top off your experience,” says Brenda.
The venue itself is inspired by a classic Mexico City taqueria. Nearly every detail has been either custom-designed or specially imported, often directly from Mexico. The raw, charmingly chaotic aesthetic of the interior reflects the vibrant street scenes of Mexico City, creating a space where you can relax and stay for hours, whether at the table or the bar.
José Manuel Cruz Martinez, born in northern Mexico, grew up in both Los Angeles and Mexico City. His career began as a chef in restaurants, hotels, and smaller taquerias. José was also part of the team that opened Chelas, a restaurant he sold his stake in four years ago. He has had the honor of being involved in Nobel dinners in 2017 and 2022.
We open on September 26, with the goal of offering Stockholm a taste of Mexico, where everyone is welcome to enjoy great food, lively ambiance, and Mexican hospitality.
