K. Pacho opens in Two's former New Hyde Park digs

Say "¡Hola!“ to K. Pacho, which takes over the former space of Two Steak & Sushi Den in New Hyde Park. Same executive chef — James McDevitt — but a Mexican cantina theme and a lower price point. New decor, too.

K. Pacho Cocina and Tequila is its name, a play on the expression “¡Que pacho!” which, loosely translated, means “What fun!” This according to co-owner Jay Grossman of the Four Food Studio Restaurant Group, who described the cuisine as  “not traditional Mexican but fun Mexican.”

A case in point is Frito pie ($14), a riff on classic nachos made with chili, beans and cheese presented in a Frito corn chip plastic bag. Guacamole made tableside ($12) can be upgraded with lump crab meat and mango ($18). McDevitt also puts his own spin on fish tacos made with soft corn tortillas ($10), grilled skirt steak cazuelas, a fajita-style entree ($19), and Jalisco-style pork tenderloin ($18). Margaritas, made with all-natural ingredients, cost $8.

Grossman described the place as looking “like you kind of stumbled into a modern Mexican speak-easy — barn board and Murano chandeliers, a lot of brickwork.” Although rock and roll plays in the background, Grossman stressed that acoustics allow for easy conversation.

K. Pacho Cocina and Tequila is at 1270 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park; 516-358-2222.