Photo Credit: Google Streeview

The future home of El Barrio.

One thing Five Points doesn't have at the moment is a Mexican restaurant. (No, Barberitos doesn't count. That's a burrito place. Those things are in different categories.) So the dudes behind The Pine are in the middle of planning for one to open just down the street from them, at the corner of Milledge and Morton, to be called El Barrio Tacos and Tequila.

Co-owner Scott Parrish says, "The concept is tacos with house-made corn tortillas. We will also have fajitas, a 'bowls' (salads, rice and beans) option and, of course, house-made salsa, guacamole and cheese dip. Big focus on craft tequila and mezcal. The atmosphere will focus on utilizing the outside dinning area. Neighborhood and family friendly.  $3–$5 options on tacos and $5 margaritas.  Not trying to be crazy expensive." So hold yer Cinco y Diez snarky comments.

The same folks are also taking over operations of the food and drink at Showtime Bowl on Macon Highway, which has been renovated extensively after its roof collapsed last year. The new eatery inside will be called The 11th Pin and will open in October. Parrish says the menu is pretty straightforward bowling-alley food (burgers, hot dogs, wings, pizza), "nothing super fancy, but not frozen crap either."

The biggest news here is that it will also serve beer and wine, which is a game changer. As you'd expect—these dudes are serious about their drinks—there will be some craft brew options in addition to the expected domestics.