Azul Agave struggled with COVID related challenges
As the popular proverb states, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” On July 23, Azul Agave, on Rt. 9W in Cornwall, reopened its doors after being forced to close shortly before its original opening two years ago. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the new beginning and was attended by local, county, and state officials, as well as family members and patrons.
“Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we were forced to close our doors for some time,” said co-owner Mauri Valle. The first two years hit us really hard, as it did many businesses. But for a new business, it was particularly difficult to weather that storm. However, we are very excited to be able to bring traditional Mexican food like the kind I grew up with my abuela (my grandmother).”
Valle was unable to wait for restaurants to reopen their doors in the midst of the pandemic, said co-owner Kathie Vasquez. He was going into bankruptcy and while he tried to sell the restaurant, since the business had accrued some debt, he found it difficult to find a buyer.
Vasquez, who has known Valle for the past six years, having worked for him at his restaurant in New Paltz, decided to sign on as a partner and accountant because she knew other people would enjoy his food if given the chance to re-open. The two partnered with Danny Abril, a construction worker who handled the renovations of the new restaurant.
Despite the challenges he faced, Valle was determined to follow in the footsteps of his family, which owns a number of businesses and restaurants. Starting as a dishwasher, he learned to cook by observing, as well as from his mother. As co-owner of a restaurant in New Paltz, he left to go into business for himself.
Valle serves as the head chef, and according to Vasquez, having the final say on how each dish is presented to the customer is very important to him. A culinary artist, the plating of the food serves as his signature.
“I want people to get a taste of our food and our culture and explore the many colorful dishes and provide an experience that stays with our guests” Valle said.
Azul Agave, named after the explorer who discovered the agave plant, the sap of which is used to make Tequila, features a predominantly Mexican menu. Vasquez said the plan is to eventually expand the offerings by including Peruvian and Ecuadorian foods.
When Peru celebrated its independence on July 31, the menu included ceviche, fish cooked with lemon. This week, a popular Ecuadorian dish, cuy (roasted guinea pig) was added to the menu in celebration of the country’s independence on Aug. 10. On the traditional menu, tacos de birria and the combination special are two of the more popular items.
Azul Agave employs six waitresses, including Vasquez, who all work part time. Valle has one assistant in the kitchen, as well as a dishwasher.
Located at 2576 Route 9W in Cornwall, the restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and until 9 p.m. on Sundays.
