Chef Erick Williams Opens Cantina Rosa In Hyde Park
Chef Erick Williams Opens Cantina Rosa In Hyde Park
By Tia Carol Jones
Cantina Rosa, located at 5230 S. Harper Ave., is the latest venture by Chef Erick Williams. Williams shared some insights on the cocktail lounge with the Citizen Newspaper.
Citizen Newspaper: You recently opened Cantina Rosa. What is the concept behind the space and what kind of atmosphere will patrons find there?
Chef Erick Williams: Cantina Rosa is a vibrant cocktail lounge that celebrates the rich traditions of Mexican culture through a carefully curated menu of agave-forward and tropical cocktails. The space is a heartfelt homage to the maternal figures in my family and the families of Virtue Hospitality Group’s team members. Designed to transport guests with its warm, modern, and immersive atmosphere, it features elements inspired by Mexican architecture and craftsmanship, creating an environment rooted in tradition, hospitality, and connection.
Citizen: How does Cantina Rosa fit in with Virtue, Daisy’s and your other concepts?
Williams: Each of my concepts tells a story and pays homage to a specific culture or tradition, and Cantina Rosa is no exception. While Virtue celebrates Black culture through food and Daisy’s highlights the vibrant flavors of New Orleans, Cantina Rosa expands our narrative by celebrating Mexican culture through its cocktails and design. Together, these concepts form a community-driven ecosystem, enriching Hyde Park with diverse culinary and cultural experiences.
Citizen: What are some of the cocktails and spirits people will find on the menu?
Williams: The menu features cocktails that highlight the depth and versatility of Mexican spirits, including tequila, mezcal, and Mexican gin. Standouts include the Royal Hawaiian Cocktail with Mexican gin, pineapple, almond, and lemon; Mystery Gardenia, a mix of rum, lime, and gardenia flavors; Rosa’s Paloma, a twist on the classic with tequila, lime, grapefruit, and cinnamon; and the Paddle Cactus, featuring mezcal, prickly pear, pineapple, and Chile.
Citizen: So far, what has been the cocktail or spirit people have ordered most?
Williams: The Jushu which is mezcal, acacia honey, lime, and mango, has definitely been a popular cocktail. It’s light and easy to sip.
Citizen: How would you describe the food that is on the menu?
Williams: While Cantina Rosa is primarily focused on cocktails, we do offer light bites that complement the drinks.
Citizen: What has been the most popular food item on the menu so far?
Williams: Again, our focus is primarily on Cantina Rosa as a bar and creating the best cocktails that we can for our guests to enjoy.
Citizen: Why did you choose Hyde Park for three of your ventures?
Williams: Hyde Park holds a deep personal significance for me — it’s where I chose to open Virtue, our first concept. This neighborhood represents community, culture, and diversity, all of which align with the values I aim to bring to my concepts. By opening Cantina Rosa here, I hope to further contribute to Hyde Park’s rich tapestry of culture and experiences.
Citizen: How do you hope people will receive Cantina Rosa?
Williams: I hope people walk into Cantina Rosa and feel immediately transported. Whether they come for the cocktails, the design, or simply to connect with others, my goal is for guests to leave feeling enriched and excited to return.
For more about Cantina Rosa, visit www.cantinarosa.com or follow on Instagram at @cantinarosahydepark.
