Restaurateur has ‘grande’ ideas

Published 12:00 am Friday, January 29, 2010

When Ravaye Stollings dreams, she dreams big – or “grande” as one might say as she remakes the old Golden Coral building into “Rancho Grande Grill” – Andalusia’s newest Mexican restaurant.

Workers have spent the last few weeks revamping both the interior and exterior of the building, giving it a facelift for its coming debut in about two weeks.

Stollings said the restaurant will look like new when finished – new tile, new booths and fresh paint.

On Thursday, workers were beginning to wind down, putting finishing touches on the exterior walls, cleaning the carpet and other construction.

Stollings was confident her business will thrive regardless how many previous restaurants were located in the building.

It will become the third Mexican restaurant at the location.

Two-buffet style restaurants have called it home as well.

“We have great food, great service, a great atmosphere — basically great everything,” Stollings said. “We plan on staying.”

Racho Grande Grill, also located in Opp, will have a menu full of traditional Mexican cuisine as well as steak and seafood specialties.

“We specialize in steaks and seafood,” Stollings said. “I think people will see the changes to the building and I know they’ll be back once they try us.”

Stollings said the restaurant will have a fully stocked bar, but will have a family-oriented atmosphere.

“We’re very excited,” Stollings said. “You’ve got to come try us.”