Mango puree, fresh cucumber, muddled cilantro and blanco tequila. Shaken over ice, topped with soda and delivered in one of the most beautiful margarita glasses I’ve ever seen. That, my friends, is the first thing I was greeted with at the grand opening of Glenwood South’s newest resident, Cantina South. A great way to start to say the least.

“Fun, casual, electric, high-energy.” Those are just a few words owner Kevin Summers (formerly of Rockytop Hospitality) uses to describe his newest concept, located at 510 Glenwood Avenue, previously occupied by Bogart’s. Kevin, I think you nailed it, sir. From the second I walked in to the time I left (and by “left” I mean crawled out…too many chips, don’t judge, I know you’ve been there) the dining room was buzzing, the staff looked to be having a great time and the bar scene was one of the best, most high-energy I’ve seen on Glenwood South in a long time.

Cantina South from Tyler Helikson on Vimeo.

The food is moderately priced with appetizers ranging from $7-$11 and entrees anywhere from an $11 taco plate to a $23 angus ribeye. Promise me this, if you do nothing else, order the guacamole. It is prepared table-side by one of the waitresses on self-titled “guac duty.” Imagine a job where you showed up and prepared guacamole for 6 hours….you, dear, are officially invited to my next house party.

At the bar expect to pay around $10 for a specialty cocktail. With over 50 tequilas and a veteran bartender lineup there is no doubt in my mind that this is going to be one of the most popular bar scenes on Glenwood South. If it’s a proper cocktail you seek ask for Micki or Echo, tell them I sent you….trust me.

Just like anything in life it’s the people that make any operation work, although good food and stiff drinks don’t hurt. Kevin has assembled a magnificent team who stop at nothing to make sure you have everything you need. I’ve seen a lot of disasters on opening night. To the entire Cantina South team, a sincere thank you and congratulations. I will most certainly be returning soon. Echo, please have my margarita waiting for me.