Hillcrest will soon see the arrival of its first gay-owned, Mexican-style restaurant and bar when Margarita Mary’s opens its doors on April 29.

Located in the former Seven restaurant at 1421 University Ave., the redesigned space will feature full dining service and a commodious thatch-roofed bar stocked with more than 80 neck-warming types of tequila. And with 60 employees in place, the establishment appears ready to welcome the kind of teeming patronage enjoyed by its 12-year-old “sister” operation, Hamburger Mary’s.

According to Matt Ramon, general manager for both restaurants, “We’re taking the Mary’s experience and giving it more of an indoor atmosphere that will be fun and lively.”

The blueprint does include, however, two original patio sections in the front of the building plus another one in the back. Each will be fully utilized. Also, the cavernous dark interior that was Seven’s trademark has been brightened up with sandstone tile flooring, Mexican-style chandeliers and artificial, life-size coconut trees. A panel of doors has replaced the front windows, and new kitchen equipment was installed for cranking out foods such as homemade tamales, assorted quesadillas, fajitas, mole sauces and fresh salsas.

Ramon assures that patrons will find food prices to be affordable, with appetizers ranging between $3.95 and $6.95, and dinners from $9.95 to $13.95.

The menu will also feature a build-your-own-taco section, and if you come for the spirits, tequila will be a main staple of the refurbished bar. The list will feature dozens of new and established varieties such as barrel-aged anejos or the latest 1800 Blanco Silver Tequila.

“People can enjoy them on the rocks, as shots or in margaritas,” said manager Joe Kraft, who helped research and develop the extensive tequila menu. Mexican beers and select Spanish wines will also be available. “It’s a welcoming bar where people will feel comfortable even if they come in by themselves.”

The eat-and-drink atmosphere will uphold Mary’s tradition of plenty of recorded music, which Ramon said has yet to be determined. “It might be what you hear at Hamburger Mary’s, but all in Spanish – or maybe authentic Mexican music. We want to keep it fun and upbeat.”

Margarita Mary’s will operate daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. For more information, call (619) 491-0400.