New Restaurant in Queens Faces Backlash Over Name
There’s a bit of a stir around a new eatery in Queens named Whitexicans, and it’s not quite what the owners expected.
The Jackson Heights spot has been in the spotlight even before it opened, with some critics online calling for a name change due to concerns over its perceived racism.
Mateo Gomez Bermudez, one of the restaurant’s four owners, shared that while they anticipated some backlash, they didn’t think it would escalate to this level. “We thought it would just be a light-hearted joke. People have this notion that only brown-skinned individuals can be Mexican, but there are white Mexicans too,” he explained. Their goal was to create a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background.
The term “Whitexican,” as noted by some sources, can carry negative connotations within Mexican society, often pointing at the privilege of light-skinned individuals who have access to better opportunities.
What’s raised even more eyebrows is that three of the owners are from Colombia, leaving some locals perplexed as to why they’d choose such a controversial name. A local expressed frustration, stating that the term reflects ignorance and promotes division.
Critics on social media have questioned whether the restaurant is just a joke or an upscale version of fast food, while others felt the owners were perpetuating classism and racism.
However, Claudia López, the only Mexican in the ownership group, firmly stated that the term isn’t derogatory. She consulted with other Mexicans before agreeing to the name, emphasizing that it doesn’t offend her or her family.
“This restaurant is about providing good food and a pleasant atmosphere for everyone, regardless of their identity,” López added. They even have a sign at the entrance saying “All Men Are Lawful,” with the phrase printed on staff shirts.
The menu features reasonably priced items, with rice and beans going for about $15—similar to a Chipotle. Interestingly, the most expensive dishes, like sea bass and shrimp, are still only priced at $18.
Despite the controversy, Whitexicans has drawn a good crowd since opening on October 9, with many patrons showing support for the establishment.
Gomez Bermudez noted that much of the negativity seems to come from people on social media who jump to conclusions without understanding the business. “It’s tough to run a business in this climate. It’d be great if folks took the time to really know what we’re about before criticizing us,” he mused.
This incident isn’t the only recent controversy in Queens, following similar tension with another restaurant, Wolf’s Lair, which faced backlash due to its name’s associations.
