Gus Thieken and Erick Meza, both in white dress shirts and white hard hats, hold open the doors to the soon-to-be La Victoria Mexican restaurant in downtown Tampa — Gus Thieken (L) and Erick Meza at La Victoria. Credit: Gus Thieken

The absence of margaritas isn’t going to stop downtown Tampa’s latest coastal Mexican restaurant from opening.

La Victoria, located at 105 W Tyler St. in the former Melting Pot Social spot, announced on social media Monday afternoon that it will finally open its doors, despite the fact it’s still waiting on approval for a liquor license from the City of Tampa.

“A little patience on the pours, but absolutely no compromise on the plates,” wrote La Victoria on Instagram.

The new concept is led by Gus Thieken, former general manager of The Pearl, alongside real estate investor Erick Felipe Meza, and executive chef Terrell Manning.

Neither operating hours or a full menu have yet to be released, but Thieken previously told the TBJJ that La Victoria’s regular menu will include classic Mexican dishes like ceviche, chilaquiles and shrimp tostadas and have a full-service bar.

The new 3,800-square-foot space also allows guests to rent a “tequila locker,” which essentially allows one to store their own tequila within a glass locker within the restaurant.

La Victoria is just a block away from another new coastal Mexican spot coming to downtown Tampa, Matilde, which hopes to open next year.

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This article appears in Oct. 15 – 21, 2026.