Mexico Ceaty, the long-teased food hall at the Shops at Rivercenter, is staying behind the curtain a little longer. The San Antonio project has been delayed again as crews wrap up inspections and staff work through final training. Chef Jason Dady says the overhaul missed its projected April 1 opening and that an April 6 launch "isn't gonna happen," with the team now circling April 13 instead. He added that the group has a temporary certificate of occupancy in hand and is still filling a few remaining jobs as they push toward opening day.
Chef's Update And Timeline
According to MySA, Dady shared an Instagram reel on April 2 showing the nearly finished Rivercenter space and told the outlet that "we received our temporary certificate of occupancy today." MySA reports that staff are spending this week on training and onboarding, with April 13 now set as the target opening date while the team locks in final hires.
What Mexico Ceaty Will Be
The project is taking over the mall's traditional food court at the Shops at Rivercenter (849 E. Commerce St.) and transforming it into a collection of restaurants, bars, a panadería-style café and market stalls, the Express-News reported after a January preview. While some coverage has pegged the overhaul at roughly 25,000 square feet, early press materials cited by Visit San Antonio described the buildout at about 21,000 square feet, a discrepancy that reflects shifting plans as the project moved forward.
Timing And Downtown Impact
A mid-April opening would drop Mexico Ceaty right into the start of downtown's busy Fiesta season, and Axios notes that Fiesta runs April 16–26. That timing could give the new food hall an immediate stress test as it tries to lure both tourists and locals back into Rivercenter. Developers have pitched the project as a way to modernize the mall's dining options and boost foot traffic, making the exact opening window especially important for nearby businesses.
Where This Fits In Dady's Portfolio
Dady has been reshuffling his restaurant lineup as Mexico Ceaty edges closer to the finish line. He closed Jardín at the San Antonio Botanical Garden to focus on expansion, KSAT reported. The chef has also rolled out pop-ups and satellite concepts around town while preparing for what he has called his most ambitious project yet, according to the Express-News.
Next Steps And How To Follow
For now, Dady says the timing will come down to final inspections, staff readiness and any remaining permits that need to clear before doors can open on April 13. The project's official site shares construction updates and job postings for the last open positions, per Mexico Ceaty's website, and Dady's social media accounts continue to offer behind-the-scenes reels for anyone tracking the long-anticipated launch.
