If you’ve driven down Gulf Boulevard in Madeira Beach lately, no doubt you’ve noticed the colorful, two-story façade promising to bring Mexican eats to the beach. After months of anticipation, the bright building has opened its doors and introduced the public to Mad Beach Cantina.

The new spot for Mexican food and margaritas is open daily from 4-10 pm at 13205 Gulf Boulevard. Mad Beach Cantina describes itself as a “neighborhood spot that serves exciting contemporary Mexican cuisine with a blend of Florida flow. The creative and delicious dishes will have you coming back for more.”

The menu at Madeira Beach’s newest restaurant borders on gigantic, with an entire section devoted simply to various chip-and-dip offerings. The biggest portion of the menu, however, is reserved for build-your-own margaritas. The step-by-step process includes a massive list of tequila options, flavorings, styles, sizes, and even rim garnishes. That is, of course, in addition to a full cocktail menu featuring some tantalizing twists on Mexican classics. (We’re eyeing the Oaxaca Werewolf.)

Expansive menu offers many intriguing options

As for the food itself, diners can prepare themselves for some tough decisions, and it may be best to bring friends and try a little of everything. A large appetizer menu includes standards such as street corn, taquitos, quesadillas and nachos, as well choices like shrimp cocktails, ceviche, and house-made tamales.

There are more than a dozen choices on the street tacos portion of the menu, followed by another half dozen-plus burritos and chimichangas. Finally, the entrees include big dishes such as chile relleno, ranchero shrimp, fajitas, enchiladas, and red snapper. Some options that catch our eye include the skirt steak del charro, a Tijuana-style hot dog, the “Pueblo City Burger,” and the incredibly enticing Pambazo, which is described as a torta roll dipped into salsa roja then toasted on the plancha filled with chorizo, spiced diced potatoes, crumbled queso fresco and shredded lettuce. Sign us up.

To round out the options, Mad Beach Cantina also offers a full kids menu and several traditional desserts. Check out the full menu and learn more at madbeachcantina.com.

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