As students who have lived in Commerce for any amount of time are aware, the number of restaurant choices in town is fairly small. However, those who think they can count the number of Commerce eateries on a hand or two may think about taking off some shoes, because the number is growing.
Leading the way is Mi Casita Café, a new Mexican food restaurant located in the University Shopping Center, next to what was formaly Sip & Surf.
The restaurant’s full name is actually “Mi Casita #2,” as it is the new sister of the Mi Casita in Mt. Vernon, which opened in 1999. According to owner Blanca Garcia, it was in Mt. Vernon that the idea for the new restaurant came up.
“A lot of people who go over to Mt. Vernon [told me] ‘you should open one here in Commerce.'” Garcia said. She also mentioned that the large student population also factored into her decision to open, but added, “It’s a family business. We’re not in it to be millionaires; we just want to serve the town.”
For customers of legal drinking age, the restaurant will soon also feature a full bar. For restaurant hours or specials, customers may contact the store by phone at 903-886-4000.
In addition to Mi Casita, some familiar Commerce venues are getting a change of address. Braum’s is moving to a brand-new facility, also located in the University Shopping Center, later this year. According to Charlotte Harrod, manager of Braum’s, the new building, which broke ground in May, will be significantly larger and have a drive-thru. The new Braum’s will open later this year.
Subway is also relocating, though the move will be much shorter distance, just three doors down on Live Oak. There is no official move-in date for the building, and ownership could not be reached for comment to confirm building details.