Tacos and Tapas in Midtown; Mexican Seafood on Buford Highway

— A Mexican-Spanish-Southern fusion restaurant based out of Jackson, Miss., is planning a Midtown debut before the end of 2016. Atlanta Magazine reports Babalu Tacos and Tapas has secured a lease at the 33 Peachtree Place mixed-use development, which will follow five existing locations in Jackson, Memphis, Birmingham, Knoxville, and Charlotte.

A look at Babalu’s menu reveals dishes such as black-eyed pea hummus, Mississippi Delta tamales, a Cuban torta, and redfish tacos. Bill Latham, president of Babalu parent company Eat Here Brands, tells Atlanta the local outpost will adjust its offerings to focus on local ingredients.

— Co-owners Carlos Zambrano and chef Jaime Ponce are close to opening what they claim will be “the first authentic Mexican seafood restaurant in Atlanta.” Mariscos el Malecon is on track to begin service at 3979 Buford Hwy. by mid-August, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “When people think about Mexican food, they think tacos and burritos, but Mexico has one of largest ocean ports in the world,” Zambrano told the AJC.

— One Indian concept is replacing another at Lawrenceville’s Grayson Pavilion development. Spice Oven will take the place of Tandoor Indian Cuisine at 1365 Grayson Parkway, Suite 112, reports What Now Atlanta. In a post on Facebook, ownership says the kitchen will be “blending fresh spices, vegetables, meats, and breads” to “make memorable cuisine experiences.”

• All Coming Attractions [EATL]