Aug. 04--First Gino's East opened in Mexico City. Then it stood up against Donald Trump's inflammatory anti-immigrant remarks.
Now it's deepening its love affair with Mexican-Americans by bringing its deep-dish pizza to Pilsen -- and adding Mexican-inspired dishes to reflect the neighborhood's ethnic identity.
The Chicago chain, which expanded into Mexico earlier this year, says it will offer new toppings including pork al pastor, nopales, esquites, grilled poblano peppers and habaneros at its Near West Side Pilsen location.
It will also offer sides including jumbo chicken wings al pastor, chipotle meatballs and Oaxaca caprese salad.
Gino's East last month curried favor with Mexican-Americans by taking a public stance against presidential candidate Donald Trump's anti-immigrant remarks. It purchased the entire remaining stock of 5 Rabbit Cerveceria's "(Bleep) Tu Pelo" beer, which was originally brewed for a bar at Trump Tower but later renamed to insult Trump's signature hairstyle after Trump described Mexican immigrants as "rapists."
Gino's East Vice President Noah Himmel said in a statement, "We have completely fallen in love with the people, culture and food of Mexico City."
A date and site have yet to be set for the opening.
kjanssen@tribpub.com
