PROJECT DEBRIEF: PLAZA AZTECA- SIOUX FALLS, SD

Plaza Azteca expanded its footprint in Sioux Falls with the opening of a second location, designed to support a high-volume restaurant while addressing operational challenges learned from their first space.

This 5,812 SF project was completed in collaboration with RCM, with Studio 616 providing both interior and exterior architectural design services. From the outset, the focus was on creating a restaurant that functions efficiently day-to-day, holds up to heavy use, and presents a strong presence along one of Sioux Falls’ busiest corridors.

DESIGNING FOR EFFICIENCY AND DURABILITY

Restaurants are demanding environments, and this project placed a strong emphasis on durable, easily cleanable finishes paired with a neutral palette that will age well over time. The material selections were made to withstand constant traffic while remaining flexible and timeless.

Creating operational efficiency, particularly at the bar, was a key driver of the interior layout.

THOUGHTFUL LIQUOR STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Liquor storage was a critical design consideration. To address this, storage was intentionally integrated throughout the design in multiple ways:

• Extensive shelving at the back bar

• A suspended shelf system above the bar to maximize vertical space

• A glass display case behind the reception area

• A large, lockable liquor cabinet located in the vestibule above the waiting bench

These solutions increased storage capacity while keeping bottles accessible, secure, and visually integrated into the space.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The building includes a wide range of spaces designed to support both front-of-house experience and back-of-house operations, including:

• Full commercial kitchen

• Main dining room

• Bar and dedicated bar seating area

• Indoor casino

• Large outdoor patio on the south side of the building, covered by a custom-designed pergola

• Support spaces including restrooms, office, storage areas, walk-in coolers, food prep rooms, and more

Each area was carefully planned to balance operational needs, guest experience, and code requirements.

A gallery of the completed project.

SITE PLANNING AND EXTERIOR PRESENCE

The project sits on a large site with ample parking, supporting high peak-hour demand. The building is positioned prominently along Veterans Parkway, making visibility, building presence, and signage especially important for passing traffic.

The exterior design reinforces that visibility while remaining cohesive with the interior’s neutral approach. The south-facing patio and custom pergola extend the dining experience outdoors, creating an inviting space and adding architectural interest to the building’s street presence.

COLLABORATION FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION

Close coordination with RCM throughout the design and construction process allowed decisions to remain grounded in constructability, schedule, and budget. This collaborative approach helped ensure the final building supports both Plaza Azteca’s operational needs today and flexibility for the future.

Projects like Plaza Azteca demonstrate how thoughtful planning—rooted in real operational insight—can lead to spaces that not only look good, but work better.

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