About Red Mesa Restaurant
Embark on a culinary journey through Mexico's diverse regions with our namesake original menu. From Gulf-inspired dishes to South-influenced flavors, each dish is infused with Latin flair. Delight in Oaxacan huitlacoche, Peruvian tiraditos, and Central American esquites, all expertly paired with Old-World classics and rotating "Especiales de Casa" featuring enticing flavors from the southern hemisphere.
Peter & Shawn Veytia
Founders and Chief Executive Officers
Peter and Shawn Veytia opened the popular 4th Street seafood restaurant, Seabar, in 1981. Then, inspired by Shawn’s Mexican grandmother’s extraordinary recipes, they decided to bring the rich heritage of regional Mexican flavors to St Pete. In 1995, Red Mesa Restaurant opened its doors. Chef Chris Fernandez joined them along with the Veytia’s two sons, Pete III and Dana. In 2009, the group opened Red Mesa Cantina in the heart of downtown Saint Petersburg, later opening Red Mesa Mercado in the Edge District, and recently, Red Mesa Events and DeSanto Bar, also in downtown St Pete. As locals, the Veytias continue to bring new and novel dining experiences from around the Americas to our wonderful St Pete community.
Pete Veytia III
Chief Operating Officer
Pete grew up in the hospitality industry, apprenticing from an early age, (meaning, his parents put him to work as a kid). He took to the trade with a passion and after college, held positions in the industry before joining his parents again with Red Mesa. Pete rose quickly demonstrating extraordinary leadership and management skills. Under his stewardship, Red Mesa Cantina has grown with the city and continues to be one of the “go to” places in downtown St Pete. Mercado has flourished in its own niche and the landmark Red Mesa Restaurant, remains a beloved favorite around Tampa Bay. Innovation is his trademark; Cantina is the home of the largest selection of Tequilas in the South and the Red Mesa Sangria Bar is the first in the Tampa Bay area.
Chef Chris Fernandez
Executive Chef
Chris Fernandez grew up in the kitchens of Oaxaca, Mexico where he was exposed to a great variety of regional foods and flavors from around Mexico. He apprenticed with the best from an early age and his passion for Mexican cooking traditions became his life. Chef Chris joined the Veytias at the inception of the flagship Red Mesa Restaurant and has spearheaded the menu ever since through the opening of Red Mesa Cantina and Red Mesa Mercado and beyond. His wide range of culinary skills has brought innumerable accolades to the Red Mesa brand, putting all three restaurants, each with a unique point of view, at the top of every list.
At the heart of Red Mesa lies a celebration of traditional regional Mexican cuisine, infused with a dynamic evolution reflecting modern gastronomy.
Our menu showcases a balance of cherished classics and innovative reinterpretations, including Caribbean-style ceviches, Peruvian tiraditos, and Oaxacan huitlacoche. We also offer a selection of "Especiales de Casa," highlighting favorites from the southern hemisphere. Complementing our menu is a carefully curated wine list and a unique Sangria Bar featuring classic and artisanal varieties. Our friendly staff is dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience, guiding you through our diverse offerings with passion and expertise.
Connect With Us
Join our community and be a part of the Red Mesa experience!