Local Cantina, a concept founded by Orange Umbrella Restaurants in 2012 that has grown to 15 locations, including 10 around Central Ohio, is getting ready to open a new site in Pickerington at the intersection of Columbus and Center Streets.
This announcement comes as part of the city’s redevelopment project, aimed at rejuvenating the area with new restaurants and retailers, according to the Columbus Business Journal. While it remains unclear when Orange Umbrella Restaurants plans to open this new location, the move indicates the city’s interest in collaborating with the restaurant group to enhance Pickerington further.
Established in Columbus, Ohio, owner George Tanchevski envisioned Local Cantina as a fresh kitchen offering scratch-made food and sauces centered around Tex-Mex-style cuisine. The first location was designed as a late-night dining spot featuring a taco-centric menu and a fun atmosphere complemented by a bar. Over just 10 years, Local Cantina has grown to 15 locations across Ohio and Florida, and now, the group is set to expand the concept to Pickerington.
“How about some fun news to start the work week?” according to the announcement. “We’ve entered into an agreement to bring Local Cantina to the corner of Columbus and Center Streets. It’s part of our continued investment in the downtown. We’ve got plans for parking too. More details will be coming soon, but this is something to get excited about, Pickerington!”
Orange Umbrella Restaurants also owns Liberty Tavern, South Village Grille, Jony’s Sushi, The Rossi Kitchen & Bar, Mid-City Garage, Local Bar, and The Go Go. The company recently sold the original Liberty Tavern in Powell, while the new owners are converting it into Elliot’s Wood Fired Kitchen & Tap. The group also opened a Liberty Tavern at 2170 Polaris Parkway last summer with plans to bring another to Grove City. Additionally, the group recently closed Local Cantina in New Albany, making way for a new location for the group’s other concept, Bendi Wok N Bar.
Bendi Wok N Bar has quickly gained a reputation for its authentic Asian-inspired dishes and trendy, inviting ambiance. The concept blends elevated wok-style cooking with a dynamic bar scene, providing an eclectic experience that continues to resonate with guests. Local Cantina New Albany’s final day of service was January 31st, 2025. The new restaurant group acquiring the space has expressed enthusiasm for building on Local Cantina’s legacy, with plans to introduce an innovative concept that aligns with the community’s love for fresh, quality-driven dining experiences.
“It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to our New Albany location, but we’re genuinely excited about this new phase,” Tanchevski said in a news release. “The New Albany community has been incredibly supportive over the years, and we’re eager to share Bendi Wok N Bar’s unique flavors and atmosphere with more people as we expand.”
