La Nopalera Authentic Mexican Restaurant, found throughout Jacksonville, is hoping to open a new location at Hodges Plaza at 13799 Beach Blvd.
The company is seeking a zoning exception for on-premises consumption of all alcoholic beverages, according to Jacksonville Daily Record. The proposed 4,000-square-foot restaurant will sit in a corner outparcel building with an additional tenant sharing the building. If the restaurant is approved, customers can expect Mexican recipes, margaritas, and plenty of fun. The restaurant, owned by Javier and Jose Valencia, has owned as many as 10 locations but has closed a few sites in recent years.
The restaurant offers an authentic Mexican setting inspired by San Jose de la Paz, Jalisco, the family’s hometown. As the name suggests, Nopales takes pride in the plant commonly found in Mexico and used as food in many towns and reminds them of customs and traditions. Some items found on the restaurant’s menu include antojitos, tacos, burritos, and combination plates. There are also specials and lunch-only deals. Most locations offer a variety of beer, wine, and cocktails.
“La Nopalera offers a connection to Mexico without setting foot outside of Jacksonville, FL.,” according to the company’s website. “We only use the freshest ingredients that remind us of our hometown and our family recipes. Wherever you go in Jacksonville, you will have a La Nopalera near you in case you want to escape your routine and live a Mexican experience.”
