MERCANTILE WITH FOODIE CRED COMING TO SIXTH WARD
John and Veronica Avila, founders of the El Burro & the Bull barbecue kiosk in downtown’s Conservatory food hall, are expected to open Henderson & Kane General Store in January at 715 Henderson (at Kane) in historical Sixth Ward. John Avila, who was one of the first employees of Austin’s famed Franklin Barbecue, likens the concept to corner conveniences seen throughout New York neighborhoods: “It’s groceries in a small setting that serves that borough,” he said. “In New York, six blocks is your life.” That means customers can expect soda, beer, wine, snacks and some commercial products, as well as a hot-food line for takeaway (barbecue, chili, catfish, mac and cheese) and a cold deli with house-made pastrami, boudin, turkey, sausages, smoked cheeses, sandwiches and salads. Also in the works: tamales and tortillas using beef tallow from their smoking endeavors, and fresh breads.