East Valley fans of Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila won’t have to make the trip to Scottsdale much longer. The Mexican restaurant is expanding to Chandler, opening its second Arizona location on August 5. The new restaurant will celebrate its debut with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. on opening day.
The expansion comes nearly two decades after the original Scottsdale location opened in 2007, earning a following for its Mexican fare, handcrafted margaritas and extensive tequila selection. Operated by Backbar Hospitality Management (Nello’s Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen and Ghost Ranch Modern Southwest Cuisine), the new Cien Agaves spans 5,000 square feet, including indoor dining and two outdoor patios.
Guests can expect the same atmosphere and menu that made the Scottsdale restaurant a favorite, led by Executive Chef Memo Bracamonte.
“Inspired by our travels through Tequila, Jalisco, and visits to some of the region’s distilleries, my business partner and co-founder, Bob Schulken and I created a space that celebrates the traditions of agave culture while embracing a fresh contemporary Mexican aesthetic,” said Roque Jimenez, co-founder and owner of Cien Agaves. “We could not be more excited to bring an elevated Cien Agaves experience to Chandler and share our passion for authentic Mexican food, tequila, and genuine hospitality.”
A signature feature of the restaurant is its collection of more than 100 premium tequilas and mezcals, showcasing both well-known distilleries and small-batch producers from across Mexico. The spirits program is designed to introduce guests to the craftsmanship and regional diversity behind agave-based spirits.
The Chandler location will also offer the restaurant’s popular daily Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m., featuring discounted margaritas, appetizers, tacos, beer and wine. Taco Tuesday specials, available all day, include discounted Tecate beers, tacos and pineapple-infused tequila shots.
Guests will also find new menu additions at both locations, including the Tampiqueña, featuring grilled arrachera steak, poblano rajas, a cheese enchilada, guacamole, Mexican rice, and refried beans, along with Sea Bass Tacos topped with citrus slaw, avocado salsa, and pickled red onions. Learn more at cienagaves.com.
