La Cantina on Main has quickly become a beacon in downtown Canton. It offers elevated Mexican cuisine, signature cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere where the community gathers to celebrate and savor life. Founded by Ramon and Freddy Benitez, along with Jose Luna and Guillermo "Memo" Pomares, La Cantina has transformed the former East Main Café and Audio Intersection into a fresh, dynamic destination for food and events.
With roots stretching back over 20 years, we watch a new legacy unfold while redefining local dining. The partners have created an iconic space that honors tradition while embracing modern tastes and community spirit by combining innovative flavors, a welcoming vibe, and personal connections.
Q&A with Freddy Benitez
Q: Your family is known for Mexican dining throughout North Georgia. How did it all begin?
Freddy: My dad’s journey started decades ago when he founded El Ranchero on Towne Lake, quickly becoming a local favorite. That success inspired him to open Dos Margaritas in 1999 on Riverstone Parkway, establishing a name that put him on the map. Over time, he expanded Dos Margaritas to Hickory Flat and Crabapple, creating a brand synonymous with Mexican dining in North Georgia. My dad’s relationships with customers were always at the core—he greeted people by name, and they saw him as more than just a restaurant owner. That personal connection remains the foundation of everything we do as a family.
Q: La Cantina on Main feels fresh and modern yet deeply rooted in tradition. How did this concept come to life?
Freddy: After COVID, my dad and I were ready for a new challenge and teamed up with Guillermo and Jose. When we discovered this space in downtown Canton, its history and charm immediately inspired us. Walking through the old church area sparked ideas about what it could become. Initially, we thought about a food hall, but as our vision evolved, it became unique: elevated Mexican cuisine paired with a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
Q: What makes La Cantina on Main stand out?
Freddy: It’s about more than just food—the attention to detail sets us apart. Memo hand-selects the freshest ingredients daily, ensuring every dish is exceptional. Our menu reflects the community’s tastes while elevating their experience. Whether through innovative dishes, signature cocktails, or personalized touches, everything we do is crafted with care and connection.
Q: How does community feedback influence the menu and overall experience at La Cantina on Main?
Freddy: Listening to our guests has been essential. Every new item on the menu or tweak we make directly results from what our customers tell us. For example, when we introduced a dish with potatoes—a less traditional ingredient for Mexican cuisine—it was because we noticed our community loves them. We tested it, and it became a hit. We don’t just serve food; we serve people whose voices shape what we do. It’s about building trust and making everyone feel like part of the La Cantina family.
Q: The family cookout is a standout item on your menu. What inspired this dish, and what makes it unique?
Freddy: YES! It’s a feast that brings everyone together, just like our family meals growing up. The dish includes grilled meats like steak, chicken, shrimp, fresh vegetables, rice, beans, and warm tortillas. The communal experience makes it unique—everything is served on a large platter, perfect for sharing. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating those moments where everyone feels part of something bigger, just like in our family.
Q: Tell us about your new brunch concept.
Freddy: Starting in January, we’ll launch a Mexican-American brunch on Saturdays and Sundays at 9 AM. Guests can expect dishes like carne asada Benedict paired with mimosas, offering a creative twist on classic brunch fare. This new offering lets us share our signature flavors in an entirely new way, and we’re confident it’ll become a weekend favorite.
Q: How do you see the restaurant enhancing downtown Canton’s appeal?
Freddy: It’s about honoring the past while keeping it fresh. Relationships have always been our foundation, but listening to our customers allows us to evolve—adjusting the menu or enhancing the atmosphere. We focus on creating a space deeply connected to the community, where people feel at home and proud of what Canton offers.
Q: Each business partner at La Cantina brings something unique. How do their “superpowers” shape the restaurant?
Freddy: Each partner plays a vital role. My father provides the foundation with his decades of experience and Cherokee community ties. Jose is embedded in the Canton network and has specialized expertise in Tequila. Memo is our sourcing genius, ensuring quality ingredients that make every dish stand out. My role is to unify it all, focusing on relationships and building a legacy. Together, we balance tradition with innovation, creating something truly special.
Events at La Cantina on Main
La Cantina on Main is more than a dining destination—it is a versatile venue for unforgettable events. With a spacious layout that comfortably accommodates 110 guests, the space is perfect for private gatherings such as wedding rehearsals, milestone birthdays, and corporate events. Guests can customize their experience with room for DJs, live bands, or any setup that fits their vision.
Freddy Benitez highlights the team’s commitment to creating dynamic experiences for the community. He notes that the venue’s flexibility makes it ideal for various celebrations. “Whether it’s a 50th birthday party or a wedding rehearsal, we want the space to feel like it’s tailored to the people using it,” he explains.
In addition to private events, La Cantina plans to host themed nights such as disco parties, live karaoke, and watch parties for significant sports events like the Super Bowl and Formula 1 races. Freddy envisions the space as a true community hub, offering everything from live music to casual gatherings.
No matter the occasion, La Cantina on Main provides the perfect blend of style, functionality, and warmth, making every event memorable.
Pull Quote:
"We honor tradition while embracing innovation—it’s about creating a space where people feel like family."