Print edition: 
Carlos O'Kelly's Mexican Cafe, operated by Wichita-based Sasnak Management, has signed a deal to operate two cantinas at Intrust Bank Arena.
The concession kiosks, named Carlos O'Kelly's Mexican Cantina, will be the exclusive arena provider for on-site margaritas and a line of Mexican specialty foods.
The cantinas — one on each level — will be open for the arena's first event, the Jan. 9 Brad Paisley concert. They replace the Santa Fe Cantinas that were already branded before talks began in November.
"The deal gives us brand recognition," said Chris Presson, general manager of the arena.
"I think everyone understands who Carlos O'Kelly's is and what they represent. With the Rolph family involved, we're all familiar with their family name and that's a big plus for us. We know with them involved that we don't have to worry about a thing."
Jon Rolph, Carlos O'Kelly's executive vice president, said the deal is a great opportunity to get the company's name in front of arena patrons.
"We're excited about this project," Rolph said. "We think it's going to be a real landmark success in downtown Wichita and we're just excited to be a part of it."
Rolph said the deal came together in a little more than a month, with company officials scrambling to get moved in before the Paisley concert.
The cantinas' signature product will be the Carlos Gold Margarita — Jose Cuervo Especial tequila, triple sec and the company's special margarita mix.
The menu will include items such as chips and salsa, chili con queso, nachos grande and Navajo tacos.
Increasing brand recognition is a growing emphasis of arena managers, Presson said.
"Specifically, we want local familiar faces, and that's why the Carlos O'Kelly's deal for us is a good one," he said. "It shows people we are investing in the community and those who support the community long before we were here."
The Carlos O'Kelly's chain was started by the Rolph family in 1981. The company has 47 restaurants in 10 states. There are four Wichita locations.
