La Peña Mexican Grill, a new full-service restaurant specializing in traditional and modern Mexican cuisine, is getting ready to open in Temecula at 27717 Jefferson Avenue.
The new restaurant is set to move into the former home of Bastards Canteen, according to a recent liquor license filing. A representative from the company tells What Now San Diego that the customers can expect a menu centered on traditional and modern Mexican dishes. La Peña Mexican Grill is scheduled to open around the end of the year, likely by January 2026. The ownership team tells What Now that they hope to eventually incorporate nightlife and dancing six months to a year after opening, as there is a stage in the back.
The property features two large banquet rooms, a full commercial kitchen with hoods and a walk-in cooler, and a grease trap, making it well-suited for high-volume restaurant operations. Located along Jefferson Street, the site benefits from strong visibility and traffic counts of approximately 26,000 vehicles per day. The area also includes 495 hotel rooms within a half-mile radius, contributing to steady daytime and evening activity.
The Jefferson Avenue corridor has become a growing destination for food and beverage concepts thanks to its mix of residential neighborhoods, nearby hotels, and freeway access. With ample parking and proximity to Interstate 15, La Peña Mexican Grill is well-positioned to attract both residents and travelers seeking authentic, approachable Mexican fare.
While no official menu details have been released, La Peña Mexican Grill is expected to feature a variety of regional favorites, potentially including tacos, enchiladas, combination plates, and specialty cocktails. Further updates on the opening timeline are expected as construction and permitting progress.
