4 minute read
LITTLE MEXICO CANTINA
We’ve reached the time of year when people dream of heading south to escape winter. Apart from the sun and sand, Little Mexico Cantina offers a year-round Mexican getaway in your backyard. Lively music sets the celebratory tone when you walk in the door of this little cantina known for its authentic cuisine and festive atmosphere.
Scotty Olak purchased the established Little Mexico Cantina in October 2020. The restaurant first opened its doors in 1988. Scotty had been actively searching for the right restaurant to own, and when he discovered that Little Mexico Cantina was for sale, he knew he had found the perfect fit.
“I love the location — it’s close to Garry Point Park, making it a perfect spot for a walk after your meal. Little Mexico Cantina is unique; it is the only Mexican restaurant in Richmond. Located a few blocks from the centre of Steveston Village, it’s a destination restaurant with plenty of free parking.”
It’s a new chapter for Little Mexico Cantina.
Scotty brings vast experience in restaurants and pubs from his native Scotland. The restaurant underwent renovations, including new flooring and a modernized kitchen. A new team of local staff was hired, and the menu was revamped.
The menu offers enduring favourites. Specials are introduced throughout the year to highlight seasonal ingredients.
Local products are utilized whenever possible, including fresh seafood from Steveston’s Fisherman’s Wharf and produce from local farms.
Little Mexico Cantina is known for its mouthwatering tacos, sizzling fajitas, flavourful enchiladas and irresitible churros. Almost everything is made in-house, including the tortilla chips and sauces. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian meals are available.
Customers rave about the mushroom tostada, which features roasted local mushrooms. Along with the chicken fajita, it is one of Scotty’s favourite entrees.
Swing by any day of the week between 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. to partake in happy hour. Enjoy wings and wine or tacos with your choice of wine or beer for under $10 during this time.
Taco Tuesday special! Tacos are $5 instead of the regular $8.
The impressive drink menu includes feature and classic cocktails, beer on tap, bottled beer, wine, and mocktails. Scotty recommends the Puerto Vallarta, made with pineapple juice and spiced syrup and finished with coconut and almond foam.
One customer remarked, “The margaritas are so good. They’ll have you feelin’ like you're chillin' on a beach in Cancun.”
Scotty and his staff know many customers by name. Some visit the bar, while others come in to dine weekly. Many patrons are locals, although there is an increase in tourists during the summer.
Patrons often visit Little Mexico Cantina to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, office and Christmas parties. Day of the Dead and Cinco de Mayo are especially popular days.
Scotty mentions that weddings have taken place at the restaurant. Both the patio and the restaurant can be rented for private events. The patio is a draw during the spring and summer. With seating for 30 people, it’s a great spot to dine outdoors. Canada Day on the patio is a prime spot to watch the Salmon Festival parade set off.
Little Mexico Cantina recently introduced outside catering, which is becoming very popular. Meals can be prepared at the restaurant and delivered to your event; they also offer the option to cook on-site at home events.
Giving back to the community is Scotty’s way of saying thank you to his customers for their loyalty, especially for the support people offered during the challenging pandemic months.
Hosted by Little Mexico Cantina and Dinnell Real Estate, the Taco Eating Challenge has been held annually for the past four years. The challenge benefits Wigs for Kids B.C. This past summer, the event raised an impressive $64,652. Defending champ McLuchador held his title by devouring 32 tacos in under 30 minutes!
What does Scotty attribute the restaurant’s 37-year success to? He says, “Little Mexico is unique in the community. It’s a place where people come to celebrate and experience the authentic taste of Mexico.”
Little Mexico Cantina
#150 - 3131 Chatham Street Richmond, BC V7E 2Y4
Phone 604-272-5123
Story by Sarah Gordon (Feb 2025) @PALLAMEDIA
