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Published on 07/28/1999 All articles from this issue

Ay Ay Ay opens with a hint of margaritaville

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By Clyde Noel

Special to the Town Crier

Jimmy Buffett called it Margaritaville. Jamie Carpenter calls it Ay Ay Ay. Both say don't take life seriously, and if you aren't having fun, have another margarita.

Carpenter and his wife Meredith, owners of Jocco's in downtown Los Altos, last Friday opened a Mexican restaurant called Ay Ay Ay. Located in the former Bud's Ice Cream Store at 304 State St., Carpenter made extensive changes to the kitchen and eating area and bought all new furniture.

"If anyone can cut the restaurant business, Jamie can. He's in close touch with what Los Altos needs in a restaurant," said Peter Liesenfelt, an investment advisor and Chamber of Commerce board member.

"I've been making Mexican food for years. We close Jocco's at 9:30 p.m., and when we sit down to feed the crew, its usually Mexican. The employees liked the different things we tried and some of those items will be on the menu," Carpenter said. "Meredith and I went to Chicago to eat at the Frontier Grill for ideas, and then to Santa Fe to taste New Mexican-style cuisine, which will seem mild for those who crave tongue-searing tastes. We often go to Mexico to get ideas."

Ay Ay Ay is not a sports bar, but there is a TV installed next to the bar where you can come in during the day and have a drink and check out the scores. Then if you're hungry, there's a variety of appetizers on the menu averaging $6.95. Tamales filled with black beans, nachos, sopes, quesadillas filled with chicken breast, tacos and shrimp cocktails are all on the mild side.

Ay Ay Ay will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. "This restaurant will serve the needs of people who want a snack after a meeting, business trip or a movie." Carpenter said.

Aaron Morin manages Ay Ay Ay, and Raul Blas is the chef. Blas has worked with Carpenter the last 12 years and will move over from Jocco's for lunches only.

For more information, call 944-TACO.