Social Cantina

Social Cantina

Midtown Gets a Taste of Mexican Flavor

Writer / Julie Yates

Photographer / Justin Sicking

There’s no doubt that Mexican restaurants are common throughout northside Indianapolis. However, one establishment stands out. Social Cantina recently opened and is notable for a menu with a modern twist, its unique interior, and the way it showcases tequila as an approachable liquor.

Social Cantina is part of the Bloomington-based Finney Hospitality Group family of restaurants. The Carmel location was chosen because of the vibrancy of the area. Social Cantina is nestled among surrounding activities such as the playground, splash pad, sports courts, and plaza with open seating. The Monon Trail, Sun King Brewery, Java House and Penn & Beech Candle Company make the area a fun destination and a place to gather.

“Social Cantina has a very big patio with almost 100 seats,” says Chris Martin, vice president of operations for Finney Hospitality Group. “When the weather is good, that’s where everyone wants to be. It is a great spot for a business lunch, Friday night family dinner, date night, or a great atmosphere for partaking in an adult beverage while hanging out.”

Often, Mexican food found north of the border can be bland and processed. At Social Cantina, patrons experience freshness and flavors not to be had elsewhere. There are 10 innovative tacos on the menu featuring fillings such as ahi tuna, chicken tinga and fried avocado. Other offerings include bowls, burritos, enchiladas, tamales and snacks. Some options are vegetarian, and Impossible meat can be substituted for any protein at a small upcharge.

“Our cuisine features fruits and vegetables that are bright and fresh every day,” Martin says. “What’s also unique about Social Cantina is the way the space is designed. We are Indiana based and we used Indian people to put this together. Meyer Najem Construction out of Fishers were our contractors. We were excited to partner with Loree Everette and her team at PHANOMEN Design. This place has seen a lot of Instagram love.”

Martin feels like tequila is misused and misunderstood. He’d like to change the way people think about it. Currently, Social Cantina offers about 180 different brands of the liquor.

“Tequila is often associated with doing shots of an inexpensive brand, and then not feeling well the next day,” he says. “People are in for a surprise because just like a high-end Scotch or bourbon, a good tequila can be poured on the rocks. We probably have every kind that is available in Indiana. They are from different regions and made from different distillation processes.”

Besides tequila, the restaurant has a small but curated wine list. Imaginative craft cocktails, and traditional drinks such as palomas, margaritas and sangrias, are offered. Also available is a selection of American ales and Mexican beers.

“Social Cantina is unlike usual Mexican restaurants,” Martin says. “The food on the menu was influenced by research, travel and cool ideas from our staff. We are lucky to have employees that come from a rich Mexican tradition. They have shared the way their culture and family have been eating for decades.”

Social Cantina is located at 350 Monon Boulevard in Carmel. For more info, visit thesocialcantina.com or call 317-218-3342.