Tampa Bay's dining landscape is readying itself for a new player, with the announcement by HMC Hospitality Group that Tacos & Tequila Cantina, a popular Southwest Florida Tex-Mex chain, is set to establish a new beachhead in the region. Known for a menu that features traditional street corn and inventive "T&T Tacos" with fillings ranging from fried chicken to pancakes, the chain is looking to replicate its success in Tampa Bay and The Villages, CL Tampa reports.
The partnership, forged with Tacos & Tequila Cantina's founders, Kelly and Aldo Musico, leverages HMC Hospitality Group's expertise in the hospitality sector. As the creators of the Hooters concept, HMC is well-versed in crafting dynamic dining experiences. "Partnering with Kelly and Aldo was a no-brainer to continue to grow our portfolio beyond the Hooters brand. We have similar company values and commitment to providing the ultimate customer experience through quality food and a fun atmosphere," Bill Moore told CL Tampa in a statement.
Tacos & Tequila Cantina intends to deliver a dining experience supported by a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a scratch kitchen approach. HMC's Chief Development Officer, Moore, expressed the group's enthusiasm for the expansion and noted the alignment in food quality and atmosphere. "We look forward to emulating their success throughout the Tampa Bay area and Central Florida and working together for many years to come," Moore stated to CL Tampa.
While no specific dates were announced, HMC Hospitality Group has indicated that residents in the Tampa area can expect the first Tacos & Tequila Cantina location to open sometime in 2025. "We are incredibly excited to bring our concept to Tampa Bay," Kelly Musico told WFLA.
As noted by 987TheShark, the region's sunny disposition and craving for diverse flavors make it an ideal location for the eatery that has turned tacos and tequila from mere food and drink to revelry and experience.
