Intending for it to become his flagship restaurant, Chef Johnny Hernandez started work last week on the third location for La Gloria, near the Dominion.

Although the restaurant, which will be located near Stonewall Parkway and Interstate 10, will become the newest addition to his lineup, Hernandez said he wants to take what he’s learned from his other spots over the years and create a refined version of La Gloria. He expects to open by spring 2015. At 6,000 square feet, the spot will be twice the size of the La Gloria at the Pearl.

As for the food, Hernandez plans to enhance the menu. Dishes found at the other La Gloria restaurants will be available but he wants to offer breakfast and have more family-style entrees and grilled options such as cabrito (goat meat). Plus, he wants to model the bar program at the Dominion location after another of his restaurants, The Frutería, which offers bright, fruity cocktails made with fresh ingredients and juices.

The style of the restaurant will keep the same feel and vibe as La Gloria at the Pearl.

For the project, Hernandez bought two acres of land, which marks the first time he’s purchased property for one of his restaurants. The project is expected to cost roughly $4 million. That includes cost of real estate and construction.

Hernandez will start hiring for the restaurant in the coming months. He expects to hire roughly 150 employees.

Hernandez added that his corporate chef, Greg Fernandez, will become the general manager and executive chef at the Dominion location.

– Valentino Lucio