IF YOU are looking for delicious and authentic Mexican food in Shelbyville, La Rivera Mexican Cantina should come to mind. Not only is it a locally-owned business in Bedford County, but it’s also a growing business with more restaurants spreading through the state.
Antonio Rivera is the owner of La Rivera Mexican Cantina. He moved from Alabama to Shelbyville and opened his first Mexican restaurant here roughly six years ago. Something about Shelbyville pulled him in; the community is more than just a spot on the map. Shelbyville is a tightly-knit community that is both friendly and lively. Antonio said it was a perfect place to open his restaurant and that he loves the feeling of being in a small town.
Antonio has worked in the restaurant business for about ten years and his knowl- edge in the industry helped him create the unique experience offered at La Rivera Mexican Cantina. They have a large drink menu that includes mixed drinks and a variety of specialty margaritas, as well as unique seasonings and ways of flavoring the food on their menu. They also have the largest projector screen in town, which serves as the perfect way to watch any and all games.
La Rivera is a place of community.They have lunch and dinner specials every day as well as fun activity-themed nights every Thursday and Friday. On Thursdays, the activity is survey game night and on Fridays they have family karaoke.
Antonio’s hard work has given Shelbyville one of the many unique places to congregate with the people we love. We’re able to know that if we get a craving for Mexican food on a random Thursday night, not only do we have somewhere to spend time with our loved ones, but also a place to eat delicious food and have a great time. It gives us a therapeutic outing when we need it most.
There’s nothing better than a restaurant that not only has good food, but also a clear heart and soul. Antonio’s vision of connection and community is clear in the design of the inside of the restaurant as well as their many fun events and activities. You can see his genuine desire for La Rivera to help Shelbyville thrive and provide a good time to families in the community. His passion and drive is inspiring and can only be found in a place as special as Shelbyville.
Antonio is glad that he can use his talents to help the community of Shelbyville. He hopes that he and his restaurant can stick around for many years to come. -GN
