From crepes to quesadillas, this new Tri-Cities restaurant has something for everyone
If you’ve got a picky eater in the family, a new Tri-Cities restaurant might be just the solution you need.
El Compadre and Crepe Haus are a continuation of two longtime family businesses, in one location.
Jackie Avelar and her husband Adalberto, or “Al” for short, recently moved back to the Tri-Cities. She grew up in West Richland and wanted to bring a new version of their crepe restaurant from Bellingham with them.
At the same time, her husband’s family was looking to open a new location of their longtime Mexican restaurant El Compadre.
So they partnered with Marvin Figueroa, a longtime business partner of his family’s, and came up with a solution, two restaurant experiences in one place. They’re keeping the names separate so they can grow both.
“We are a family-owned restaurant and we understand everyone in the family has different tastes, so the idea is that we have a little something for everyone, combining your spicy side with your sweet side.”
Avelar thinks the diversity of flavors is the perfect match for a place as varied as the Tri-Cities.
“I enjoy the Tri-Cities area. To us, it’s always been so welcoming,” she said. “We’ve noticed there aren’t as many options (here) for people who have dietary restrictions. We want to present more to the community, because we do have gluten-free, vegan and sugar-free crepes as well.”
They’re also planning on vegan options for El Compadre.
The crepe side has taken some cues from the traditional Mexican fare as well, with some new twists on flavors.
Al said the fusion of the two just felt right. He felt like the time was right to open a Mexican eatery that was more than just the same experience people have grown accustomed to.
“The main niche we’ve been going for is, ‘I’m hoping to help evolve how it’s seen.’ There are so many sides to Mexico,” he said.
They’ve had a limited opening so far, and are still waiting on their liquor license approval. They’re planning a grand opening event on Friday, Sept. 30.
“We’re excited to see everyone,” she said. “We know it can be hard for everyone to find something delicious, we want to be that place for people.”
Crepe Haus and El Compadre are at 2100 N. Belfair St. in Kennewick, just north of the Columbia Center mall where a Cinco De Mayo restaurant and an El Matador restaurant once operated.
