BY ISAIAH FRIZZELL
The Mint has lore. From Bruce Willis to Hailey locals Jenni and Paul Conrad, of Conrad Brothers Construction, as owners, with stories of wild nights, a vertiginous upstairs music space and incredible legends of horses being rode into the establishment during poker games for sheer fun and the general rowdy joy of mirthful disobedience, something we could use more of.
La Cabañita, having set up shop on the lower level, is the most hopping space in Hailey on any given night. For that after-hours life, it’s where you want to be. While they cater to families, of course, depending on when you go, the clientele tend to transform into the who’s who of Hailey. A rolicking good time, and fantastic, elevated Tex-Mex food done right.
Stephanie Aguayo has been one of the prime faces of the evening scene at La Cab–Mint for over two years. A quick, friendly hostess, server and all-around righteous young lady, you’ll definitely see and have a chance to chat with her.
Born in Wood River Valley and currently attending Wood River High School, Aguayo loves friends. “My favorite things to do are to be with my friends in Sun Valley and just go hang out with people,” she said. A junior at Wood River, she has plans to add to the economy as a nurse or possibly a dentist. Health, help and service reveal a kind heart and practical focus.
Aguayo has two Chihuahuas named Ghost and Berry, who help rule her life. Her love of dogs is unmatched.
Having lived here for the past 20 years, Aguayo has seen Hailey change and welcomes it while still loving the aesthetic we all adore. “I like how it’s growing,” she said. “I feel like in a couple of years we’re going to be a much bigger town, but I really like the peace that there is here, not so much danger, and you just feel really comfortable here and you get to know everybody.”
La Cabañita at The Mint is your destination if you like night life. The food is precise and excellent. Aguayo recommends the carnitas or the mango habanero wings for a starter. The menu is full of wonderful dishes you can only get there.
Stop by and say hi to Aguayo, grab a drink and enjoy the buzz of genuine nightlife and revelry.
