After a couple of unsuccessful turns as Regions, the space at 6th Street and Mill Avenue in downtown Tempe is about to become a completely different concept, with a new owner.
Restaurateur Julian Wright, who owns La Bocca Urban Pizzeria + Wine Bar a block up the street, is transforming it into a restaurant called Canteen Modern Tequila Bar.
Wright has hired chef Monte Healey, a longtime employee at Houston's and Yard House, who has traveled extensively through Mexico.
Healey will focus on coastal and southern Mexican flavors for the entrees, but will also include a big selection of tacos for guests who want a casual nosh with their tequila.
And speaking of the agave booze, Wright plans to feature 100 to 150 different kinds of premium tequila, "which would make us top in the state for variety," he says.
Wright is giving the retaurant a "major facelift," adding a 1600-square-foot patio and second bar, creating about 290 seats between the restaurant and bar areas. He'll also have a private dining room for up to 25 guests.
The opening is scheduled for October 7.
