Chef Cristian de Leon and Karen de Leon of El Sazon are expanding their culinary reach to Stillwater. Their new spot, Xelas by El Sazon, will offer authentic Mayan cuisine, craft cocktails, and a forthcoming Sunday brunch—the restaurant is expected to open in January 2025.
Courtesy of Xelas by El Sazon
The menu will reflect Chef De Leon’s Mayan heritage, utilizing staple ingredients such as grains, corn, cocoa, beans, peppers, and squash, enhanced with spices like achiote and chili peppers. Guests will find a range of dishes steeped in Mayan history and culinary traditions, and some with their own modern twists. And for the bar menu, think rum of all kinds, with a wide selection of classic drinks and tropical concoctions.
The space itself was also crafted through a Mayan lens, adorned with natural wood accents, Earth tones, and Mayan artwork. “When Karen and I first saw the space, we immediately sensed something special. It just felt right,” says Chef De Leon in a statement. “While not located in the heart of Stillwater, the location allows Xelas by El Sazon to foster deep connections with the local community, creating a neighborhood feel, while also welcoming a diverse crowd during peak seasons—exactly like our Minneapolis location has done.”
Here are some highlights from the finalized menu:
Aperitivo (Starters)
- Yuca & Chicharron – Salsa roja, tortitas de yca, chicharron crusted pork belly, curtido, queso
- Ceviche – Tuna, recado negro, jicama, onion, serrano, avocado, limon, orange, tostada
Plato Fuerte (Main Course)
- Chochinita – Pork chank, achiote, Cebolla curtida, habanero, arroz, frijol
- Hilachas – Short rib, tomato and chile guace demi, roots vegetable pave, tortillas
- Pepian de Pollo – Airline chicken, ejotes, tomate, papa, huisquil, puerros, arroz
Photo by Xelas by El Sazon
Postre (Dessert)
- Tamal de Cacao – Vanilla ice cream, guineos brulee
- Papaya & Vanilla – Papaya syrup, dark chocolate, dulce de leche cortada, nuts
Drinks
- Yaayan – NA spirit, Mamey, salted honey, coconut cream, citrus
- Taste Like Home Of (Old Fashion) – Ron Zacapa, platano macho brown sugar syrup, xocolt mole bitters, angostura
Photo by Xelas by El Sazon
Xelas by El Sazon, 1180 W. Frontage Road, Stillwater, elsazonmn.com
