News Summary
Pepe’s Cantina Mexican Grill is set to open in April in the Kenwood neighborhood of St. Petersburg, Florida. This marks the first location in the Tampa Bay area for the popular Central Florida franchise, taking over the space previously occupied by Cider Press Vegan GastroPub. The restaurant promises a vibrant atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring contemporary Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, vegan options, and specialty drinks. With a planned seating capacity for 130 guests, it aims to be a favorite spot for food lovers and community gatherings.
Exciting News for St. Pete: Pepe’s Cantina Mexican Grill is Coming to Kenwood!
St. Petersburg is about to get a taste of something special! Pepe’s Cantina Mexican Grill is set to open its doors in the Kenwood neighborhood by early April, and folks are buzzing with anticipation. Located at 3118 3rd Avenue North in the charming Shoppes at Kenwood, this will be the first Pepe’s in the Tampa Bay area, expanding a beloved Central Florida franchise.
A New Chapter in a Familiar Spot
The new cantina is taking over a spacious 2,275-square-foot space that once housed Cider Press Vegan GastroPub. If you remember, that spot closed its doors back in October 2024. Prior to that, it was also home to the popular LGBT bar, Georgie’s Alibi. One thing’s for sure — this location has seen a lot of action, and Pepe’s is all set to breathe new life into it!
Meet the Team Behind the Magic
Leading the charge is local franchisee John Cameron, who is enthusiastic about bringing the same level of success to Tampa Bay that Pepe’s has enjoyed up in the Orlando area. What’s even more exciting is the layout of the location; it’s just perfect for a lively cantina atmosphere! Cameron teamed up with owner Frank Chavez and partner Jose Acosta to make this dream a reality, securing the lease through real estate guru Josiah Gross.
Diving into the Menu
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds because Pepe’s will serve up a delectable menu at this new spot. The restaurant will comfortably seat 130 guests with options for indoor dining, inviting bar seating, and a delightful outdoor area, complete with a roll-up door to soak up that Florida sunshine.
Food lovers? You’re in for a treat! The menu will mirror those of other Pepe’s locations, with offerings focused on contemporary Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Highlights include mouthwatering fajitas, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and tacos. And let’s not forget the star of the show: the tableside guacamole, made with freshly sourced ingredients, and their signature freshly made salsa.
Unique Dishes You Can’t Miss
For those looking to try something a little out of the ordinary, don’t miss the Hawaiian Fajita. Served in a hollowed-out pineapple, this dish features Angus beef, chicken, shrimp, and grilled pineapple, all topped with melted cheese—yummy! And for taco fans, the lineup includes chorizo, barbacoa, ribeye steak, salmon, shrimp, and even marinated octopus, plus award-winning birria tacos to put a little zing in your step!
Vegan and Vegetarian Options Galore!
If you’re vegan or vegetarian, fear not! Pepe’s will also cater to your cravings with scrumptious options like birria tacos with plant-based beef, black bean and mushroom quesadillas, and tasty chimichangas stuffed with plant-based meats.
Drinks and Desserts to Indulge In
It wouldn’t be a true cantina without a fabulous drink menu! Expect to find specialty margaritas available by the pitcher, along with craft cocktails featuring an array of fruity flavors. Not a fan of alcohol? There will be non-alcoholic craft cocktails, tequila shots, wines, espresso martinis, and local draft beers from Bowigens Beer Company. Plus, stay tuned for exciting collaborations with local St. Pete breweries!
To satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in classic Spanish desserts like churros, flan, and the delectable tres leches cake that will leave you wanting more!
When Can You Visit?
The new location aims to operate from Sunday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. When the weekend rolls around, guests can enjoy extended hours until 1:00 a.m. on Fridays and until 10:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Sunday brunch—featuring an all-you-can-drink special for just $19.99. That’s right—mimosas and sangrias galore, plus unique brunch dishes like tres leches French toast and chicken with churros!
More than Just a Restaurant
With this exciting opening, Pepe’s has officially become the seventh location in Florida, and they’ve got big plans for expansion in Port St. Lucie, too. The people of St. Pete are in for a flavorful experience that’s sure to become a local favorite.
Get ready to spice up your dining experience, St. Petersburg! Pepe’s Cantina is on its way to deliver flavorful dishes, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere that connects the community. It’s time to bring your friends and family together to celebrate the joys of good food and great company!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Rethinking Urban Development
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- St. Pete Rising: 21-Story Apartment Tower
- Google Search: St. Petersburg news
- I Love the Burg: St. Pete Waterfront Master Plan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Florida Politics: Federal Grant to St. Pete
- Google News: Pepe’s Cantina St. Petersburg
