By Yasmene Warren
No passport? No problem! If you’re in search of a fresh place to get some unique Mexican food from the comfort of your own city, then the search ends at Pepe’s Cantina in Winter Park!
What is Pepe’s Cantina?
Pepe’s Cantina is a restaurant located in downtown Winter Park on New York Avenue. It takes authentic Mexican ingredients and combines them with what its website describes as “innovative culinary techniques.”
There are currently a total of three locations, with the other two being in Clermont and DeBary. You can stop by the Winter Park location on Sundays and Mondays from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Menu Breakdown
Pepe’s Cantina has three menus: brunch, lunch and dinner.
Brunch is served only on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on this menu, you’ll find tasty dishes such as huevos rancheros, tres leches french toast, a Mexican crepe with nutella and more.
Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and this menu is jam-packed with everything you can imagine. From appetizers like ceviche and soups like caldo de pollo to vegan and vegetarian selections and tacos, burgers and burritos. If the variety is too overwhelming, there’s even a “Lunch Favorites” section that serves enchiladas, chimichangas, quesadillas and fajitas with a side of Mexican rice, refried or black beans, lettuce and sour cream.
The dinner menu is similar to the lunch menu except that it replaces “Lunch Favorites” with “Dinner Favorites.” All of the sections remain the same, but there are much more menu options to choose from. You can also order the same lunch menu items, but the serving sizes are larger too!
As for the sweet stuff, Pepe’s Cantina serves desserts such as flan, churros, tres leches, fried ice cream, guava cheesecake, piña colada cheesecake, and a vegan chocolate cheesecake.
The Drinks
Of course, what’s a good Mexican restaurant without some drinks? Pepe’s Cantina serves margaritas, cocktails, beer, wine and more. If you want to step away from your typical drinks, then consider trying this restaurant’s “Loaded Topo Chico.” Pepe’s Cantina takes this regular Mexican sparkling mineral water and “loads” it with tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar and is served with a spicy Tajin rim.
Take it up a notch with the spicy jalapeño loaded topo chico, the flavored loaded topo chico, or the topo chico hard seltzer-rita. You can also order an upside-down margarita, tequila shots, dessert cocktails, and regular soft drinks.
The Ambiance
Pepe’s Cantina is nothing short of a great vibe. The covered outdoor seating keeps you comfortable and close to the beauty that is downtown Winter Park. This area is surrounded by thriving greenery on the walls and ceiling, and there’s even an adorable shrub wall with a neon sign for the perfect photo opportunity.
In the back, you’ll find a bar with even more seating and plant life. It’s securely tucked away behind the restaurant, so if you have one too many drinks, you won’t have to worry about anybody looking at you crazy!
Overall
The location may be small, but it truly has a lot to offer. The quality of the food is unlike any other, so it’s certain you and your taste buds will be leaving satisfied. The ample number of outdoor seating and open bar makes it the perfect place to bring your friends. Next time you’re in downtown Winter Park, be sure to stop by Pepe’s Cantina!
Downtown Winter Park
Downtown Winter Park is full of art, culture and history and has lots of local shops and businesses within its city limits. This city is full of unique restaurants you won’t find just anywhere, and the local boutiques and bookstores will have you never stepping foot in a regular mall again. Downtown Winter Park is home to the Park Avenue District where you’ll frequently find many community events being held throughout the year. If you’re looking for a close community, then this is the place to be.
The Orlando Real is sponsored by The Pozek Group. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in Orlando, reach out and we would love to help!
Search Orlando Real Estate Listings
Leave A Comment