Cenote (pronounced seh-NO-teh) opened in Sayville at the site of the former Bistro 25 last Friday, Sept. 23. The bold and unique restaurant brings the Yucatan experience to clients through “authentic Mexican cuisine, a lively atmosphere and decor based on the balance between traditional and modern, familiar and unknown,” according to a spokesperson of the restaurant.

Chris Owen, executive chef of Cenote Modern Mexican, created a menu highlighted by his live-fire cooking technique, a method of cooking food over embers—wood or charcoal that has burned down into white ash. This technique is what brings Owen’s mixture of textures, flavors, and vibrant spices to life.

The Greater Sayville Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newest member and a special tasting prior to the public event.

Chamber president Eileen Tyznar said, “Modern Mexican cuisine was filled with color, textures, flavor and flair. The menu was eclectic and the plating was done with an artist-like eye!  The chef Chris modernized some of our favorite dishes with a twist!”

Among the chamber board members’ favorites were the chicken nachos and shrimp tacos along with the slew of margarita choices to accompany the fresh and decadent meal.

“Our two of favorites were the Spicy Margarita as well as the Pomegranate Margarita! We are excited to hear that Cenote will be working on a brunch menu soon as well!  We wish them all the luck on their new venture!  Buena suerte, Cenote!,” wished Tyznar.