Carajillo opens in Ferndale

Mexican eatery Carajillo has opened in downtown Ferndale in the space that was the former home to The Emory. Prior to opening Carajillo, chef and owner Ara Sotelo operated Cafe de Olla which was located inside Cafe Muse in downtown Royal Oak. “Carajillo” is named for a popular coffee drink in Spain and Spanish-speaking countries, that has various theories about its origins, including that it was a Spanish soldier’s invention of coffee and rum for courage (“coraje”) before battle. This restaurant concocts their boozy coffee drink with Licor 43, Kahlua 40 and a shot of espresso. In addition to traditional Mexican drinks, the bar features Mexican and domestic beers, wines and cocktails. On the food side of the menu, guests will find authentic Mexican cuisine, sourced with fresh ingredients from local markets and Mexican stores throughout Detroit. Chef Ara Sotelo comes from a family of restaurateurs in Mexico and she went to culinary school in Mexico City as well. Popular entrees include: Pionero del Mar-a combination of shrimp, calamari, mussels and baby scallops wrapped in a cheese tortilla; Huarache Azteca- grilled cactus topped with mahi mahi and melted cheese laid in a bed of salsa verde served with a side of steamed vegetables and rice; and Pork Pionero-a combination of ham, bacon and pork loin wrapped in a cheese tortilla with a side of flour tortillas and Pico de Gallo salsa. Carajillo is open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday-Sunday. 22700 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale carajilloferndale.com