Comings and goings

Not only is Britton Road NOT losing Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler, it’s also gaining more flavors from south of the border. El Chico had the chips-andsalsa racket at the intersection of N May Avenue and Britton Road for four decades. But now the space on the southwest corner of that intersection is filled by The Garage, so what’s a body looking for cheese enchiladas to do? Never fear, Mamaveca soon will be near on the northwest corner or the intersection. Taking over the space that never blossomed into The Red Beret Restaurant, Mamaveca will bring its distinctive Mexican and Peruvian cuisine to northwest Oklahoma City.

Founder William Chunga was one of the first to bring authentic Peruvian cuisine to local diners, showing the way to a smattering of ceviche-centric concepts across town. Mamaveca did open in Edmond for a short time but was unable to tame the space that claimed at least four other restaurants before and after.

The new Mamaveca takes over a turnkey space thanks to the work of chef Nordeen Bennai, who ran out of capital before he was able to open the doors on the Red Beret. I’ll have more information on the opening as it comes available.

Mamaveca fills one vacancy, but another has come available. Sophabella’s Wine Bar and Bistro closed as of Jan. 1. Owner Bill Brazil shut the doors after more than a decade and a half servingclassic Italian fare and Chicago-style pizza.

The Brazils still are offering catering services, using a commercial kitchen just up the street from the restaurant. To contact Bill about catering events, call 361-3642.