A popular modern Mexican restaurant in New Orleans is expanding as its owners prepare to launch a second concept nearby. The new restaurant will focus on breakfast dishes inspired by traditional Mexican flavors and family recipes.
Acamaya Owners Opening New Mexican Breakfast Restaurant in Bywater
The owners of the modern Mexican restaurant Acamaya are preparing to open a second restaurant in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans.
The new restaurant, called Casimiro, will be located at 800 Louisa Street, just a short three-minute walk from Acamaya.
The space previously housed the Honduran restaurant Alma, which closed in August last year.
Casimiro is expected to open in spring 2026 and will focus on Mexican breakfast and brunch dishes.
Sisters Behind the New Restaurant
Both Acamaya and Casimiro are owned by sisters Lydia Castro and Chef Ana Castro.
Chef Ana Castro is well known in the culinary world and has received several nominations from the James Beard Foundation, one of the most respected honors in the restaurant industry.
Her career has been closely tied to some of New Orleans’ most acclaimed kitchens.
Chef Ana Castro’s Career in New Orleans
Chef Castro first gained major recognition while working at the restaurant Coquette.
In 2019, she received a James Beard nomination for Rising Star Chef of the Year for her work there.
Later, she opened her own restaurant, Lengua Madre, alongside Coquette chef Mike Stoltzfus.
Lengua Madre also earned multiple James Beard nominations before eventually closing.
Success of Acamaya
After closing Lengua Madre, Castro partnered with her sister Lydia to open Acamaya in July 2024.
The restaurant quickly gained praise for its modern approach to Mexican cuisine.
Acamaya’s success recently earned Castro another major recognition — a 2026 James Beard nomination for Best Chef: South.
The restaurant has become one of the notable additions to the growing New Orleans dining scene.
Casimiro Will Focus on Mexican Breakfast
While Acamaya focuses on modern Mexican dishes, Casimiro will have a more casual and neighborhood-focused concept.
The new restaurant will highlight breakfast foods inspired by the sisters’ upbringing.
Some of the expected dishes include:
- Huevos rancheros
- Chilaquiles
- Other traditional Mexican morning favorites
The goal is to create a welcoming breakfast spot that reflects the flavors and meals the sisters grew up eating.
A Growing Dining Destination in Bywater
Bywater has become one of New Orleans’ most exciting neighborhoods for new restaurants and creative dining concepts.
The addition of Casimiro is expected to add another unique option for locals and visitors looking for breakfast and brunch in the area.
Because the restaurant will be located just a few minutes from Acamaya, the sisters will be able to operate both establishments within the same neighborhood.
