URGENT UPDATE: A new culinary experience is arriving in Rochester, as Yuma Fritas prepares to open its doors in the former Taco Jed space at 808 Broadway Ave. S. The much-anticipated “Cubanish” restaurant, spearheaded by Chef Justin Schoville and Lindsay Zubay of Championship Dining, is set to launch in mid-December 2023.
Taco Jed, which operated for seven years, closed its doors in October, making way for this exciting addition to the local dining scene. With a menu focused on traditional Cuban fritas, Yuma Fritas aims to bring a taste of Havana to Rochester, offering a unique twist on classic dishes that locals will not want to miss.
Chef Schoville explains that the inspiration for Yuma Fritas emerged during a recent trip to Florida, where he discovered the delicious fritas of Miami. “We’ll specialize in fritas and potatoes,” he stated. “Fritas are a Cuban street burger, initially made with chorizo and served with shoestring potatoes on top.”
The term “Yuma” is Cuban slang for foreigners, particularly Americans. Schoville and Zubay, who do not have Cuban heritage, plan to infuse their own creativity into the menu, branding their offerings as “Cubanish.”
The fritas will feature a variety of proteins including chorizo, beef, chicken, and fish, all topped with crispy shoestring potatoes and served on toasted egg buns. Customers can look forward to additional toppings like Havarti cheese, bacon, cherry tomato salsa, avocado, and mango slaw.
In addition to the signature fritas, Yuma Fritas will serve a traditional Cuban sandwich, along with a plant-based variant. Diners can also enjoy fried plantains, coconut ginger rice, and fritters made from malanga root vegetable, bringing authentic Cuban flavors to Rochester.
For those with a sweet tooth, Yuma Fritas will offer batidos, tropical smoothies made with coconut, guava, mango, caramelized pineapple, and papaya puree. “We’re working on tests to finalize them,” Schoville revealed, hinting at the exciting flavors to come.
The bar will feature a full range of tropical cocktails including mojitos, Cuba libres, daiquiris, and piña coladas. Instead of traditional fountain drinks, patrons can enjoy imported bottled Coke and Fanta made with cane sugar.
Yuma Fritas plans to hire a team of 20 to 30 staff members to support operations, which will run seven days a week. Schoville expressed confidence in the transition from Taco Jed to Yuma Fritas, stating, “We just need the three Ps — paint, plants, and a playlist.” The restaurant will feature a vibrant Cuban playlist, from traditional to modern hits, and will be adorned with plenty of plants and fresh paint to create an inviting atmosphere.
As Rochester eagerly awaits this flavorful addition, Yuma Fritas promises to deliver an exciting dining option that highlights the richness of Cuban-American cuisine. Keep an eye on this developing story as the opening approaches, and get ready to indulge in a slice of Havana right in your neighborhood!
