Former El Mezcal Manager To Run Imperial II Steakhouse

The former manager of Norfolk's El Mezcal restaurant is slated to open the Imperial II Steakhouse in Neligh this June, according to Cindy Hild.

Hild purchased the building in October 2014 from Doug and Gloria Dennis with her late husband Bruce Hild. 

Hild said Rene Carrera will manage the steakhouse, which will retain the name, Imperial II. He and his wife, Alma, have two children, Alan, 18; and Valeria, 12. Hild said Alan will also help with the restaurant. 

"It's still going to be named Imperial II and remain a family steakhouse," Hild said. "Rene is very cognizant of what people want."

The building opened as a steakhouse for the first time in 1964. It changed hands several times until Ray Ahrens opened the original Imperial Steakhouse in 1982. 

Hild said Ahrens plans to assist with the re-opening of the Imperial II Steakhouse. 

"Ray Ahrends has offered to be his mentor with expanding menu options," Hild said. "The prime ribs and chicken fried steaks were what the Imperial is known for, and they are going to offer that. There will be a lot of menu options."

Hild said she's excited about working with Carerra because of his effort toward strong customer service.

"Rene meets everything on had on my list when I was looking for someone to run it. Friendliness, hours, options and quality," she said. "Customer service is his number one priority."