New downtown Macon restaurant makes its debut with a soft opening. Take a peek inside

Macon residents now have more options when eating downtown. Jalapenos Cantina made its Macon debut with a soft opening happening Thursday.

“It is a great feeling to make it to opening day. I have been living near this area since 1995 - for me it is a dream come true,” said owner Ramon Saucillo. “I’m super excited to serve the Macon and downtown community.”

The family-owned business currently has a successful Jalapenos Cantina location in Gray off of Gray Highway, according to Saucillo. The restaurant was set to be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. for Thursday’s soft opening, and that will be the spot’s permanent hours going forward too.

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

Menu items include molcajete, chipotle chicken, chilaquiles and more. A fan favorite is the el jackson grande house special - grilled chicken, steak and shrimp with mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, rice and lettuce in a crispy flour shell topped with queso.

The restaurant also offers specialty drinks like Tito’s punch, strong island and a rum runner.

Saucillo said he plans to ease into the opening but hopes to celebrate the new location on a bigger scale in the near future.

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

“It has been a great experience to start work in this beautiful city,” Saucillo said. “I am blessed to be able to be part of this community.”

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