New downtown Macon restaurant debuts with soft opening. Take a look inside

Macon residents now have more choices when it comes to dining downtown. Jalapenos Cantina is making its Macon debut, opening Thursday in an intimate setting.

“It’s a great feeling to have made it to opening day. I’ve lived near this area since 1995 – it’s a dream come true for me,” said owner Ramon Saucillo. “I’m so excited to serve the Macon community and downtown.”

The family-owned business currently operates a successful Jalapenos Cantina in Gary, off Gray Highway, according to Saucillo. The restaurant was scheduled to be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. for the soft opening event on Thursday, and those will be the eatery’s regular hours going forward.

“We opened in Gary in 2007,” he said. “I saw this as a great opportunity to expand and serve the downtown Macon community.”

The menu includes molcajete, chipotle chicken, chilaquiles and more. A fan favorite is the house specialty El Jackson Grande – grilled chicken, steak and shrimp with mushrooms, onions, peppers, rice and lettuce in a crispy flour coating, topped with queso.

The restaurant also offers specialty drinks such as Tito’s Punch, Strong Island and Rum Runner.

Saucillo said he wants to take the opening slowly, but hopes to celebrate the new location on a larger scale in the near future.

He said the opening would not be possible without the support of the community, the city, family and friends.

“It’s been a great experience working in this beautiful city,” Saucillo said. “I’m blessed to be a part of this community.”

Jalapenos Cantina is located at 458 2nd St. in Macon.