Lola’s – A Louisiana Kitchen, has been open in Summerlin® since 2014 on Town Center Drive, just north of the Summerlin Parkway. A few months ago, Tami Jo Martinez-Castaneda became the popular restaurant’s new owner. Check out her story!
Why did you buy Lola’s?
From the moment I walked in the door, I knew I wanted to take over once Lola Pokorny, the original owner, decided to retire. I started at the restaurant as a hostess, then server and bartender, and ultimately, manager. Shortly after I became manager, Lola received an offer for the building which would mean the restaurant would close. I asked Lola to give me some time to counter offer and to carry on her legacy. Fortunately, I was able to buy the restaurant and consider it a win-win for everyone involved.
What are your favorite Lola dishes?
My favorites include Shrimp and Grits, Shrimp Charlotte, Char-Broiled Oysters, Crab Cakes and Bread Pudding. My husband Carlos Martinez Castaneda does all the cooking and manages the cook staff, while I operate the front of house. Together, we are a team!
What do you like about owning a restaurant in Summerlin?
Because I live in Summerlin, I love serving my neighbors, and I love that we have regulars who dine with us every day we are open – Wednesday through Sunday. I am also very grateful for those who make the drive from Henderson and other areas of the Valley to experience Lola’s, including those who visit us from all over the world. We also have live music every night we are open, and that makes dining at Lola’s even more fun.
What is your favorite thing about the restaurant biz?
Watching diners taste our food for the first time, is so rewarding because we know it’s the start of a long relationship. Once they dine at Lola’s, we know they will be back! In reality, my job is to hang out, eat great food, drink great cocktails, and spend my time enjoying the people I love most, whether they come by one time a year when they are in Vegas, once a week, or those who stop by every day! All of it is a blessing!