News Summary
Nueva Cantina, known for its vibrant Mexican street food, will open its third location in Brandon this fall. Occupying the former Cherry’s Bar & Grill, the restaurant aims to bring its popular dishes and lively atmosphere to the area. Owner Raul Medina is excited about this expansion amid growing demand for authentic Mexican cuisine. The innovative menu will feature traditional favorites crafted by a skilled team, alongside an immersive dining experience, all while embracing an employee ownership model to foster community connection.
Brandon Welcomes Nueva Cantina’s Third Location
Nueva Cantina, renowned for its vibrant take on Mexican street food, is set to open its third location in Brandon this fall. The new restaurant will occupy the former Cherry’s Bar & Grill at 10033 E. Adamo Drive, within the bustling Brandon Crossings Plaza situated just off exit 256 of Interstate 75, near the Brandon Exchange mall. The anticipated opening date for the new venue is October 2025, according to a company representative.
Excitement for Expansion
Owner and CEO Raul Medina expressed his enthusiasm about bringing their signature offerings—tacos, margaritas, and a lively atmosphere—to the expanding Brandon community. Following the success of their flagship restaurant, which has been serving patrons at 1625 4th Street South in St. Petersburg since 2016, and a recent opening in downtown Tampa in May 2025, the decision to expand into Brandon reflects the growing demand for authentic Mexican cuisine in the area.
Menu Highlights
The new Brandon location will feature a menu crafted by Executive Chef and Partner Danny Jimenez, showcasing favorites such as slow-cooked barbacoa, Mexican pizza, and a 12-taco tour platter. Signature dishes will center around the restaurant’s iconic birria barbacoa tacos, made with high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Mexico and prepared by skilled cooks from regions like Jalisco and Mexico City. This commitment to authentic flavors aims to provide diners with a true taste of Mexican street food.
Dynamic Dining Experience
Nueva Cantina’s newest location is designed to capture the same energetic vibe that characterizes its other restaurants, featuring both indoor and outdoor bars coupled with lively decor. The focus not only lies in the food but also in creating an immersive dining experience that “transports” guests through its ambiance and culinary offerings. Vice President of Construction, Claudio Hernandes, emphasized the importance of the atmosphere and flavors in crafting this experience.
Employee Ownership Model
In a unique approach to its business model, the Brandon location will be entirely employee-owned. This initiative allows top employees to gain equity in the restaurant and become partners in its success. Medina believes this structure fosters a genuine connection between the restaurant’s success and the dedicated team that contributes to its operations.
Background of Nueva Cantina
Nueva Cantina has made a name for itself since its inception in 2016, quickly becoming a favorite among locals for its commitment to quality and authentic Mexican fare. The original flagship restaurant has set a standard for Mexican street food in the region, laying the groundwork for the successful expansion into other areas, including Tampa and now Brandon. With the incorporation of vibrant ambiance, personalized service, and a dedication to culinary excellence, Nueva Cantina aims to stand out in Florida’s bustling dining landscape.
As the opening date approaches, anticipation continues to build for what many residents hope will become a staple in the Brandon dining scene, bringing with it a fresh, flavorful, and engaging dining option.
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Additional Resources
- Business Observer: St. Pete’s Nueva Cantina Coming to Brandon
- Wikipedia: Mexican Cuisine
- Culture Map: Singh’s Vietnamese Opens New Cantina
- Google Search: Mexican Restaurants in Florida
- Beaumont Enterprise: Gateway Shopping Center Getting New Cantina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- Culture Map: East Side Dive Bar Reborn as New Cantina
- Google News: Nueva Cantina Brandon
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
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