Tequila’s Comida & Cantina Waterfront closed in downtown Wilmington on Monday.

The contemporary Mexican restaurant, which opened at 14 Harnett St. in 2024, is closing “following a mutual and amicable decision between partners Zephyr Development Co. and brothers Ramón and Miguel Villaseñor,” according to a news release. A second Tequila Comida & Cantina restaurant is located in the Village at Myrtle Grove retail center at 5607 Carolina Beach Road.

Zephyr Development Co. developed Port City Marina and owns the buildings that house Marina Grill and Tequila’s Comida & Cantina Waterfront. The Villaseñors also own several locations of Los Portales supermarkets in the Wilmington area.

A statement posted to the restaurant's social media pages on Monday called the closing "bittersweet," while thanking the community for its continued support.

"We're incredibly grateful for the memories created at this special waterfront location and for the community, staff and loyal guests who made it such a vibrant part of downtown Wilmington and the Marina District," the statement read.

According to the news release, the transition marks an “exciting new chapter” for all parties involved.  

“Ramón and Miguel Villaseñor will be focusing on expanding their growing portfolio of businesses, including their newest Los Portales Supermarket location and additional ventures currently in development,” the release stated. “For Zephyr Development Co., the closure creates an opportunity to reimagine the waterfront space. The location will soon welcome a new concept from Giorgios Bakatsias and the Giorgios Hospitality Group, bringing fresh energy and a new dining experience to Downtown Wilmington and The Marina District.”

Giorgios Bakatsias is the founder of Giorgios Hospitality Group, which owns Kipos Hellenic Cuisine and G Prime Steak & Cellar restaurant in Wilmington. 

“While we are sad to see Tequila’s Waterfront come to a close, we are incredibly proud of what was built here and grateful for the memories created,” said the ownership group in a joint statement. “We remain optimistic about the future of this waterfront location and are excited to see what comes next for our community.”

Details about the upcoming concept from Giorgios Hospitality Group will be announced in the coming weeks, according to the release.