With locations in Florida cities like Winter Park, Clermont, and St. Petersburg, Pepe’s Cantina Mexican Grill is a Mexican restaurant franchise poised to grow very fast in the coming months. According to the brand’s website, its current 6-restaurant footprint is set to nearly double, with five locations in the works in markets across Florida.
What Now spoke on Wednesday with Alejandro Diaz, the franchisee who is opening a new Pepe’s Cantina to serve the Viera area in partnership with his wife, Luisana Rodriguez, and partners Pedro Massacessi and Franco Massacessi.
“We were looking to open a franchise, and we really wanted to do a restaurant,” Diaz said, describing a long search for a franchise concept that would be the right fit. In the end, Diaz says, the team chose Pepe’s Cantina not only for the quality of its menu but for the steady support from the growing franchise’s corporate team.
“The owner is a great person, and he’s helped us through the whole process—and since we’re building everything from scratch, his guidance has been really important. It was a breakthrough for us, the guidance and support we had from the company.”
Founded by entrepreneurs Frank Chavez and Stuart Kirban in 2015, Pepe’s Cantina offers a “signature blend of authentic Mexican ingredients and innovative culinary techniques,” reads the Pepe’s Cantina website. “Pepe’s Cantina team are ready to bring the best of Mexico right to your table! We promise you will love every bite. We invite you to come and enjoy a unique Mexican experience in a friendly and fun atmosphere!”
Opening at 7700 N Wickham Rd, Suite 101, in Melbourne, the new Pepe’s Cantina will join restaurants like Domino’s Pizza, Arabesque Flavors of the Middle East, and Nature’s Table at the Park Place at Suntree retail center. It’s expect to launch in August, Diaz said.
You can keep up with all things Pepe’s Cantina by following @pepescantina on Instagram.
