Midtown Atlanta is about to get a new culinary heartbeat. Rwby, the Mediterranean-inspired eatery that opened last fall, has closed its doors, and La Santa Tacos & Bar is ready to take over, promising a vibrant celebration of Mexican cuisine, cocktails, and culture. The new restaurant, developed by Mixo Group LLC, aims to transform the former Rwby space into a destination where tradition, flavor, and creativity converge.
From Mediterranean to Mexican: A Bold Culinary Pivot
Rwby brought Mediterranean flair to Midtown with dishes that showcased bold flavors and inventive small plates. Now, La Santa Tacos & Bar is taking the reins, turning the spotlight toward traditional Mexican fare paired with a thoughtfully curated cocktail program.
According to Mixo Group CEO and mixologist Jesus Perez, the transition is more than a menu swap; it’s a cultural mission. “One of my goals is to show people where I came from and why I’m so proud of my culture,” Perez told What Now Atlanta. “The best way to do that, I believe, is with every cocktail I create and the delicious food we will prepare for them.”
Fresh, Local, and Made From Scratch
Every aspect of La Santa Tacos & Bar will be made from scratch, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Perez promises hand-crafted tortillas, seasonal salsas, and vibrant toppings, ensuring every bite feels both authentic and inventive.
“We’re not just offering tacos, we’re offering an experience,” he said. “From the drinks to the food, everything is designed to create a great environment for everyone.” This attention to detail sets La Santa apart from generic fast-casual Mexican spots and positions it as a destination for flavor seekers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Midtown Location With Space to Gather
The restaurant occupies the ground floor of an eight-story condo building on Juniper Street, about a mile and a half from Piedmont Park, a prime Midtown location for locals and visitors. The space spans 2,600 square feet, with seating for more than 100 inside and an outdoor patio that can host 38 diners, making it ideal for intimate dinners, group gatherings, and casual weekend outings.
Historically, the space has been a hotspot for evolving restaurant concepts. Before RWBY, the building housed Lawrence, a longtime Midtown favorite. Now, La Santa Tacos & Bar continues the space’s legacy while offering a bold new culinary identity that reflects the growing demand for authentic Mexican food and cultural experiences in Atlanta.
A Mixologist’s Vision
Jesus Perez isn’t just bringing tacos to Midtown, he’s bringing a full beverage philosophy. His cocktails will feature signature margaritas, craft tequila flights, and inventive spins on classic drinks, each one crafted with precision and inspiration from his Mexican roots. For Perez, the drink menu is as much about storytelling as it is about taste.
“Every cocktail has a story,” he says. “I want people to feel the culture, the ingredients, and the joy that goes into creating something meaningful.” The combination of fresh, flavorful food and carefully curated cocktails gives La Santa Tacos & Bar a competitive edge in Midtown’s crowded restaurant and nightlife scene.
Catering to a Modern, Experience-Driven Crowd
Midtown Atlanta diners have become increasingly experience-driven, seeking restaurants that combine flavor, ambiance, and culture. La Santa Tacos & Bar meets all three: an inviting, modern interior, outdoor seating for social gatherings, and a menu that balances authenticity with approachability.
The timing is strategic. Midtown’s bar and restaurant scene is recovering and evolving post-pandemic, with consumers craving unique dining experiences that go beyond generic offerings. By introducing a Mexican restaurant with a high-quality cocktail program, Perez is tapping into a market that values both flavor and story.
Cultural Connection Through Food and Drink
La Santa Tacos & Bar aims to do more than satisfy hunger; it’s designed to be a cultural ambassador for Mexico in Atlanta. From street-style tacos to elevated cocktail creations, Perez wants diners to experience the richness of his homeland in every bite and sip.
This approach reflects a growing trend in Atlanta’s dining scene, where restaurants are increasingly celebrating authentic cultural cuisine rather than offering diluted, generic versions. La Santa Tacos & Bar fits into this niche perfectly, positioning itself as both a community hub and a culinary destination.
The Deal Behind the Doors
The transition from RWBY to La Santa Tacos & Bar was facilitated by Steve Josovitz of The Schumacher Group, who brokered the restaurant’s sale. Perez and his team plan to maintain high service standards while fully renovating the space to match the vibrant Mexican theme. Expect bright colors, lively accents, and design elements that honor Mexican traditions while keeping a modern, urban edge.
What Diners Can Expect
Menu Highlights: Hand-made tortillas, traditional tacos, fresh salsas, and signature cocktails inspired by Mexico City. A lively yet comfortable space ideal for friends, families, and date nights. A patio for 38, perfect for alfresco meals in Midtown’s energetic streetscape. Drinks and dishes designed to share the story and spirit of Mexico.
With all these elements combined, La Santa Tacos & Bar isn’t just a new restaurant; it’s a full cultural experience, designed to stand out in Atlanta’s dynamic food scene.
