Finally, and just in time for Fiesta, a long-awaited concept that blends the culture of San Antonio with the flavors of Mexico:
A sprawling food court at the Shops at Rivercenter. Eight distinct dining and drinking venues across more than 20,000 square-feet. An immersive San Antonio experience called Mexico Ceaty.
On Friday, two days after the official start of Fiesta, Mexico Ceaty launches with a soft opening. On Monday, the venue springs into full-blown party mode.
“We are excited to open the doors on the first weekend of the most special celebration for our city,” Mexico Ceaty founder Jason Dady said Wednesday. “What better way to Fiesta than to FIESTA!”
Conceived by Dady more than a decade ago, then nearly forgotten, Mexico Ceaty has been an enterprise of fits and starts. Renovation of the mall space began in October 2024. Construction delays and other issues kept pushing completion dates back — from March 2025 to November 2025 to April 2026.
“What a journey it’s been,” Dady said. “I’m excited, humbled, anxious and feeling all the emotions as we get ready to open. Creating 150 new jobs, reimagining what a mall food court can be and watching people experience it for the first time — that’s what makes it all worth it.”
The venue name is a play on words, one that recognizes eating as ritual and storytelling in the capital city of Mexico.
Dady calls Friday’s soft opening “a training day.” Mexico Ceaty will welcome only as many guests as its new staff can handle.
“Think of it as a slow build up to prevent becoming overwhelmed on the first two days,” Dady said. “We have to ramp up.”
The emporium’s sprawl of eateries will overlook the turnaround of boats on the River Walk. On one end will be a Tex-Mex restaurant, Tres Arcos, and a 300-seat bar, Dos Cantinas. A hidden agave tasting room, El Último, and a panadería cafe, Dulce & Ároma, will anchor the other end.
A mercado will occupy the space in between with a ceviche bar, a tortilleria, a fruteria and a dueling trompo with street tacos and burritos.
“Mexico Ceaty celebrates the flavors that inspire us — from San Antonio to Oaxaca, Yucatán, The Baja and throughout Central Mexico — all brought together in one place. We’re right in the heart of downtown on the River Walk. Come see it for yourself.”
