In its never-ending effort to engage readers more closely, the Mercury News has published an online-only review of the local Aqui restaurant chain. The reviewer details a visit to the new Campbell location, and then invites reader comments, which might be published on the October 21 Sunday A&E section:

Note: The following review is scheduled for publication in the print edition of the Mercury News Sunday A+E section on Oct. 21. Please submit your comments about the restaurant below. Some reader comments will be edited and printed along with the review. …

First there was Aqui on Willow Glen’s Lincoln Avenue. The lively place with funky, colorful Southwest decor blew diners away with its fresh, flavorful food at moderate prices almost as soon as owner David O’Mara and executive chef Rob Francis opened the doors in 1994.

Here was a new concept. Sure, you ordered at the counter and waited for your number to be called just as at a burger stand. But the innovative food, prepared in an open kitchen, was worthy of a white tablecloth restaurant. There was even a bar serving potent margaritas.

By the time the third Aqui Cal-Mex opened in downtown Campbell last spring, the fast casual restaurant had become a staple on the dining scene.

Read the article … post your comments!