Mexican street food restaurant now open in Matthews, with Taco Tuesday and $6 margaritas
The second North Carolina location for Cantina Louie, a Dia de los Muertos-themed restaurant, is now open at Sycamore Commons in Matthews.
Owner and Belmont native Jason Sharpe opened Cantina Louie’s first North Carolina location in Asheville. He told CharlotteFive he is excited about returning to the Charlotte area and adding a new concept to the restaurant scene in Matthews.
The Florida-based restaurant features authentic Mexican vibes with an environment full of vibrant colors and intentional decor. The menu highlights a fresh mix of classic and contemporary Mexican food.
“When you walk into the place, you’re just in awe and inspired,” Sharpe said. “There are hand-painted murals on the walls, imported decorations from Mexico and there’s lively music. It’s just a fun place to celebrate with your family, for date night or really any occasion.”
Cantina Louie was founded in 2014 with the goal of producing high-quality food, an authentic ambiance and a diverse menu. You can expect a variety of Mexican street food, including Taco Fresco — skirt steak in a corn tortilla topped with fresh lime, pico de gallo and queso fresco. Other menu items include specialty tacos, including the Hot Surfer Chick, which comes with grilled chicken breast, pineapple salsa and sriracha ranch; or the Sunny-Side, which includes chorizo, a sunny-side-up egg and cilantro.
“We love Charlotte because this is where I grew up,” Sharpe said. “Charlotte has such an incredible culinary scene and we are a unique addition to that and can bring something innovative and exciting.”
What you should know:
There are daily drink and food specials, even on weekends. During “App-y Hour” from 2-5 p.m., all appetizers are half-priced.
Daily specials include $2.99 for all tacos on Taco Tuesday and $5.99 specialty margaritas on Tuesdays.
The specialty margaritas are made in house with organic lime and lemon juice.
Día de Muertos means Day of the Dead in Spanish. The two-day holiday reunites the living and the dead and is celebrated by creating altars in remembrance of the dead.
Cantina Louie
Location: 2225 Matthews Township Pkwy, Matthews, NC 28105
Neighborhood: Matthews
Cuisine: Mexican
Instagram: @cantinalouie_matthews
This story was originally published December 10, 2021 at 6:00 AM.
