News Summary
Que! Bueno Mexican Bar & Grill is set to open a new location at 4420 Devine Street in Columbia, SC, on April 29. This addition aims to enhance the dining options in the Forest Acres area, known for being underserved in sit-down Mexican cuisine. The restaurant takes over the former Barrio Tacos + Tequila space and is part of the brand’s expansion within the Midlands, which also includes a newer location in downtown Columbia. Families can expect a welcoming atmosphere and vibrant flavors as the brand makes its mark in the community.
Columbia, SC – Que! Bueno Mexican Bar & Grill will officially open a new location at 4420 Devine Street on Tuesday, April 29. This new spot will enhance the diversity of dining options in the Forest Acres area, which is currently underserved in terms of sit-down Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant is strategically located just east of Beltline Boulevard and west of Fort Jackson Boulevard. While it is being marketed as “Que Bueno Mexican Bar & Grill Forest Acres” on social media and the company website, the establishment itself is approximately a mile and a half south of the Forest Acres neighborhood, making it accessible for local residents. Signage indicating the restaurant’s name has already been installed on the building, heralding its upcoming arrival to the community.
This location is taking over the premises that previously housed a Barrio Tacos + Tequila, which closed its doors in December. The transition to Que! Bueno signifies a shift in the local dining scene, as the brand is recognized for its expanding presence within the Midlands region, known for its vibrant flavors and family-friendly dining atmosphere.
Que! Bueno had initiated its journey in the region in 2022 with its first location at 7320 Broad River Road in Irmo, within the Kennerly Crossing shopping center. This location was designed as a traditional sit-down Mexican restaurant, offering a full menu of classic dishes and beverages. The brand quickly established itself as a favorite among locals, leading to further expansion.
In 2023, the restaurant chain introduced a second location at 407 North Lake Drive in Lexington, situated near downtown. Like its predecessor, this site maintains the traditional sit-down format and shares the brand’s commitment to providing quality Mexican food in a relaxed environment.
Expansion into Diverse Offerings
Additionally, Que! Bueno has expanded its offerings beyond traditional sit-down dining. In August 2024, the brand opened an ice cream shop and Mexican snack bar at 2213 Augusta Road in West Columbia. This venue features unique items such as Mexican street corn and aguas frescas, appealing to a broader audience with its diverse menu.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Que! Bueno has plans for further expansion in the area. A new location is expected to open in downtown Columbia at 1467 Sumter Street, although an official opening date has not yet been announced. This ongoing expansion demonstrates the brand’s commitment to growing its presence in South Carolina and catering to the community’s demand for authentic Mexican cuisine.
Conclusion
As Que! Bueno prepares for its grand opening on April 29, local residents and visitors alike can look forward to a new dining experience that emphasizes flavorful Mexican fare and a welcoming atmosphere. The new location promises to be a valuable addition to the growing food scene in Columbia, SC, as the brand continues to make its mark across the Midlands region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
El Charro Express Mexican Restaurant Opens in Lexington County
Additional Resources
- The State: Que! Bueno Mexican Bar & Grill Opening
- Wikipedia: Mexican Cuisine
- Cola Daily: New Mexican Snack Bar Opens
- Google Search: Mexican food in Columbia SC
- Lexington Chronicle: Mexican Restaurant Replacement
- Google Scholar: Mexican restaurant expansion
- The State: Local Dining Scene Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mexican Food
- Cola Today: New and Coming Soon Restaurants in Columbia
- Google News: Mexican Restaurants Columbia SC
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
