Cantina 76 has officially opened its doors for business in Freshfields Village on Kiawah Island, joining a thriving culinary scene with a mix of local and regional dining venues. This is the fourth South Carolina location for the Columbia-based taqueria and bar.

Cantina 76 features fresh and affordable Mexican-inspired cuisine and beverages, specializing in imaginative à la carte tacos, handcrafted margaritas and sharable dips – like the dirty queso with a mix of refried beans, roasted chicken, red chili sauce, queso, pico de gallo, sour cream and a sriracha drizzle.

With two locations in Columbia and one in Greenville, the owners – Jeb Babcock, Chad Elsey, Rob Ward and Craig Wyatt – were ready to bring the brand to the Lowcountry. The Freshfields Village location is sure to quickly become a staple as a dynamic setting for afternoon cocktails, a quick lunch with co-workers or family dinner.

“Freshfields Village is a beautiful and thriving district,” says Rob Ward, co-owner of Cantina 76. “We think the upbeat yet casual atmosphere at Cantina 76 will make a smooth transition into the area.”

The indoor, patio and bar seating at Cantina 76 will bring a casual, energetic dining experience to Freshfields Village. The newly constructed space features a modern Southern design with a laid-back and inviting atmosphere – encouraging guests to linger with friends over dinner or grab a seat at the bar to watch the big game.

“The fresh, simple and creative taco combinations have performed well across the state,” says Chad Elsey, co-owner of Cantina 76. “It’s exciting for the brand to grow, and as a John’s Island native I’m especially thrilled for our team to open a location near my hometown.”

Popular menu items include the Peruvian shrimp taco with fried wild-caught Gulf shrimp; jalapeño coleslaw and a sweet sesame chili drizzle; the barbecue chicken quesadilla; and the house salsa made with S.C.-grown tomatoes and roasted poblano peppers. The taqueria is also known for its margaritas, made to order using elements like agave nectar, fresh lime juice, mint and lemons with creative variations such as muddled strawberries and basil.

With the opening of Cantina 76, Freshfields Village will feature a diverse selection of cuisines at varying price points. Visitors to this dining destination can choose from French bistro fare at Hege’s, Neapolitan-inspired dishes at La Tela, American pub food at King Street Grille or nostalgic soda fountain fare at Vincent’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain. Homemade soups and sandwiches are available at Ladles, and Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill brings a selection of sushi and Asian fusion dishes. Visitors can start their day with pastries and coffee at Java Java and end the evening with a glass of wine and a cheese plate from FortyEight - A Wine Bar.

Cantina 76 is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week opening at 11 a.m. and will be located at 219 Farm Lake View. Hours, menu and more can be found online at www.cantina76.com For more information, please visit the Freshfields Village website at www.freshfieldsvillage.com.

About Freshfields Village 

Operated by Northwood Retail, an affiliate of Northwood Investors, Freshfields Village is located at the crossroads of Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island and Johns Island in South Carolina. A short 30-minute drive from Downtown Charleston, the outdoor pedestrian village offers unique architecture, beautiful courtyard patios, and seasonal events. Freshfields Village is the area’s premier destination for shopping, dining and lodging in a stylish, relaxed open-air atmosphere. Notable retail tenants include The Village Market by Harris Teeter, vineyard vines, J.McLaughlin, Lilly Pulitzer, GDC Home, Southern Tide, Studio 33, Bluemercury and Urban Nirvana. For more information, visit www.freshfieldsvillage.com.

About Cantina 76