My husband and I had the absolute pleasure to sample the food and drinks now available at the new Camacho Garage, which opened in the Westville neighborhood of New Haven on September 28th, 2020.
From co-owners Robert Bolduc and Marc Knight and Executive Chef/co-owner Arturo Franco-Camacho (Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill, Shell & Bones Oyster Bar and Grill), it dazzles with an adventurous menu and predictably delicious cocktails.
The setting is perfect for these strange times; there are plenty of outdoor dining options, and they manage to achieve a sophisticated, fun environment with a vintage garage feel in a former historic bank. We were greeted and seated by the friendly and enthusiastic staff and were offered a selection of house cocktails.
I chose the Geronimo Margarita while my husband sampled the Mojito. They have an extensive selection of tequila, mezcal, and local beers.
We started with shrimp ceviche and herbed guacamole, followed by mushroom tacos and bubbling queso. We then had a sample of some desserts, including a spicy, fruity popsicle and stuffed figs. 
The drinks were delicious and generous. Chef Franco was charming, and we enjoyed the people watching immensely. Chef Franco described his vision as follows:
“I’m beyond excited to bring this completely new experience to my adopted hometown of New Haven, sharing the flavors and experiences that I grew up with in Mexico cooking with my mother and grandmother, and spending time with my father at the garage he owned,” said Camacho.
“In addition to celebrating both traditional and inspired recipes from my childhood, I’m very focused on providing guests with a healthy, fresh and delicious experience that integrates and celebrates local, seasonal ingredients while still providing flexibility and fun for those with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, vegetarian and dairy-free.”
The all-day food menu features an assortment of small plates of both traditional and Mexican-inspired street food recipes.
In addition to ceviche and raw bar offerings, an extensive taco menu, with fillings such as adobo marinated chicken, slow-roasted lamb, confit of duck and wild mushrooms and cactus, is offered as a classic taco on housemade, heirloom corn tortillas or “naked” as a filling over a bowl of grains, beans, greens, and avocado.
Thank you to Camacho Garage for welcoming us prior to your opening. We can’t wait to visit again with family and friends!
