Javier and Sarah Hernandez have been chefs for 20 years, working primarily in the hotel world and at resorts. The husband and wife team worked at upscale spots such as the Intercontinental in Nashville and the Marriott in Savannah, Ga. Javier, who is from Mexico, focuses on creating savory main dish es, while Sarah is a talented pastry chef who also has experience teaching at a culinary school. The couple has relocated to the Mentor area and brought a touch of that upscale experience and background to the casual dining scene with Senor Masa — offering Mexican cuisine at 9179 Mentor Ave. #A. Senor Masa owners Javier and Sarah Hernandez offer fast casual upscale Mexican cuisine in Mentor. A grand opening event was held on Dec. 18. (William Tilton - News-Herald) What started as an idea and a food truck has blossomed into a self-described “fast, casual, upscale Mexican restaurant.” “This is our baby,” Sarah said with a smile, noting they are not part of a franchise. “The people in this community are so very supportive and the feedback has ben great so far. We didn’t always feel like that when we were in Savannah but now even in our neighborhood we felt welcomed immediately.” Senor Masa opened on Nov. 17, but a ceremonial grand opening and ribbon cutting was held on Dec. 18. The event was attended by members of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce, City Manager Ken Filipiak, members of city council and other community dignitaries. “We are delighted to welcome Señor Masa to Mentor’s small business community,” said Christine Weber, president and CEO of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce. “This new restaurant, owned by a young couple Javier and Sarah, brings next-level Mexican cuisine to our city, along with wonderful pastries and a variety of options including takeout, dine-in, a food truck, catering, and private dining. The Chamber office had the chance to enjoy lunch, and we can confirm the food and pastry is truly outstanding. We encourage everyone to stop in and support this exciting new local business.” Sarah said 95 percent of what they serve is made in-house, including corn tortillas every morning. The word “masa” refers to dough made from corn, so as Sarah said, “corn is our roots.” Tacos are among the most popular dishes served at Senor Masa, with birria, smash burger and fish tacos among the top sellers. Corn fritters, the Mexican version of hush puppies, are also big sellers, taking a twist on Mexican street corn. Sarah makes an array of dessert items from scratch, including cookies, brownies and more. Senor Masa does not have a website yet, but they are on Facebook, and Sarah said customers have been very kind leaving compliments on that platform. “We have people remarking that we have the best fish tacos anywhere around, like being in San Diego,” Sarah said. “The people have been amazing.” Senor Masa 9179 Mentor Ave. #A Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. After Jan. 1, they will be open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. ...read more read less