Cantina Monarca plans to open its second restaurant at Lake Union Piers in Seattle in summer 2027, founder Bernie Garcia told What Now Seattle. A specific address has not yet been announced.
The new flagship will have approximately 8,300 square feet of indoor space and 2,700 square feet of outdoor patios, according to an announcement from Cantina Monarca and Vulcan Real Estate.
“Our vision is to create something Seattle hasn’t experienced before,” said Bernie Garcia, founder of Cantina Monarca, in the announcement. “We want to bring together incredible food, outstanding cocktails, beautiful design, and an energy that makes people feel great the moment they walk through the doors. With this extraordinary location on Lake Union, we have an opportunity to create something truly special.”
Garcia, who is also president of Elev8 Hospitality Group, comes from a family that has operated restaurants since 1978, beginning with Moctezuma’s Mexican Restaurant.
“Creating restaurants and spaces that bring people together has always been my passion. This project is an opportunity to take everything we’ve learned over the years and elevate it to an entirely new level. Our goal is to create one of Seattle’s most exciting restaurants, a place that both locals and visitors will love coming back to,” Garcia added.
Architect Gulla Jonsdottir is designing the restaurant. Plans include a large bar, greenery, and natural materials throughout the dining spaces. The patios are planned for year-round use, and the restaurant will offer views of Lake Union and the Space Needle.
Cantina Monarca’s existing location is at 504 Bellevue Way NE in Bellevue. Its menu includes tacos on handmade tortillas, enchiladas, and grilled meat and seafood. Its bar offers more than 100 tequilas, along with tequila flights, margaritas, and mezcal cocktails.
Follow Cantina Monarca on Instagram and visit its website for updates about the Seattle restaurant and its opening.
