After 16 years in downtown, St. Petersburg’s Red Mesa Cantina has permanently closed its doors.
The restaurant announced on its website and Facebook page today that the group has decided to immediately shutter the cantina and the Red Mesa Event Spaces located above the restaurant.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce that, effective immediately, Red Mesa cantina will be closing after 16 unforgettable years in downtown St. Petersburg, along with Red Mesa Event Spaces located above the restaurant, which became home to so many celebrations, milestones, and memories over the years,” the post said.
Red Mesa Cantina’s parent company, Veytia Ventures LLC owned by Peter Veytia Jr., filed for bankruptcy protection in the Middle District of Florida on Monday, June 1.
Veytia Jr. operates Red Mesa Restaurant and two Red Mesa Mercado locations, all in St. Petersburg. It is unclear if the other restaurants will be affected by the closure.
In 2023, the Red Mesa restaurants were embroiled in a federal investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor that resulted in the recovery of more than $190,000 in lost wages.
Red Mesa Cantina was known for its Mexican cuisine and large tequila selection, plus a charming outdoor patio and bar.
Do you have memories of eating at the longtime spot? Share them in the comments below.
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