Mexican restaurant opens second location in St. Clair County. Customers are already loving it

A long-awaited restaurant in Smithton is open at last.

Tequila Olvera’s Mexican Restaurant, located at 500 S. Main St., opened this week with a soft opening.

That opening took place Wednesday, according to Smithton Mayor Michael Smallwood.

During a phone call Thursday with Smallwood on another topic, I mentioned the restaurant. My timing was good. He said it would open that evening and that he was there for dinner the night before.

He said the food is outstanding and that the restaurant looks fantastic.

(Smallwood had the Tequila Grilled Chicken, in case you wondered.)

Based on the restaurant’s post and comments from customers, the place is off to a great start.

“Thank you to all who [came] out to support Smithton Tequilas last night!” stated the post.

“The place looks fantastic and the food and drinks were delicious as always! See you again soon!” wrote one commenter.

“It was a great first night! Drinks and food were terrific!! Looking forward to many more good times there! Thank you for taking a chance on Smithton!!” commented another.

Previously located at 500 S. Main St. was Mi Jalapeño, which closed in May 2022.

Later that year, Freeburg-based Tequila Mexican Restaurant was at work, preparing the site for a second location.

In early 2023, the Smithton restaurant seemed close to opening, so people watched and waited.

And waited.

And waited some more.

Now that the wait is finally over, folks can enjoy some good food and drinks.

Tequila’s will be open 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday this weekend.

The restaurant’s regular hours are still in the works and will be announced at a later date.

For information and updates, follow the restaurant’s Facebook page.