Introduction to Molino Olōyō
Popular pop-up Molino Olōyō has found a permanent home in Old East Dallas. The concept, expected to serve Mexican, will go into the former Cry Wolf space on Gaston Avenue, along with additional adjoining space. It’s expected to open in the first half of 2026. Chef Olivia Lopez founded Molino Olōyō four years ago with Jonathan Percival. She has focused her efforts on promoting traditional Mexican cuisine made with both contemporary and modern techniques that includes incorporating heirloom masa.
Background of Molino Olōyō
Molino Olōyō has popped up in various locations across Dallas, staying true to its roots and always offering traditional Mexican food. The new space in Old East Dallas will consist of a fonda, or what is a small restaurant that sells casual food as it is called in Mexico. The fonda space will offer dishes similar to those served at Lopez and Percival’s pop-ups, such as tacos, tostadas, churros, sautéed shrimp and grilled fish, among many other options.
“Molino Olōyō has wanted to have a home,” Lopez told The Dallas Morning News. “We are very grateful for how the city has welcomed us; it has been amazing.”
Chef Olivia Lopez is focused on traditional modern Mexican cuisine and local sourcing of ingredients.
New Space and Design
Adjoining spaces will feature room for multi-course tastings and a mezcalería, offering cocktails with that spirit, wine and snacks. The space’s design stems from a collaboration between interior designer Hatsumi Kuzuu and Memo NYC, a boutique branding agency, with additional consulting from Leslie Brenner. The interior is expected to be simple, with lots of light and plants.
In addition to the fonda-style restaurant offering casual dining, Molino Oloyo will have a tasting room and mezcal bar, where multi-course dinners will continue to be offered.
Molino Olōyō’s Future Plans
“Molino Olōyō will continue to grow, evolve, and honor the soul of Mexican cuisine, from selling tacos on the street to sharing dinners in your home,” Lopez said in a news release. “It’s a tribute to what’s possible when we trust the ingredients, the land, and the people who grow with you.”
Molino Olōyō will be located at 442 Gaston Ave., in Dallas. It is scheduled to open in the first half of 2026. https://www.instagram.com/molino_oloyo/
Conclusion
Molino Olōyō’s permanent home in Old East Dallas is a significant milestone for the popular pop-up. With its focus on traditional Mexican cuisine and commitment to using local and heirloom ingredients, Molino Olōyō is sure to become a staple in the Dallas food scene. The new space will offer a unique dining experience, with a fonda-style restaurant, multi-course tastings, and a mezcalería. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Molino Olōyō or just discovering it, the new location is definitely worth a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where will Molino Olōyō be located?
A: Molino Olōyō will be located at 442 Gaston Ave., in Dallas.
Q: When is Molino Olōyō expected to open?
A: Molino Olōyō is expected to open in the first half of 2026.
Q: What type of cuisine will Molino Olōyō serve?
A: Molino Olōyō will serve traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local and heirloom ingredients.
Q: What can customers expect from the new space?
A: The new space will feature a fonda-style restaurant, multi-course tastings, and a mezcalería, offering a unique dining experience for customers.
