A well-known restaurant space in the heart of Folsom’s Historic District is preparing for a flavorful new chapter as the operators behind one of Sacramento’s most vibrant eateries move in.
Art Aguilar and Max Archuleta, the duo behind Midtown Sacramento’s popular Cantina Alley, have reportedly signed a lease for the second-floor space at 718 Sutter Street, Suite 201. The 3,000-square-foot venue—boasting a spacious outdoor patio with views of Sutter Street—was most recently home to Q’bole Cocina & Cantina, which closed its doors earlier this year after a decades-long run. The space is next door to the popular Gaslight Company bar and restaurant and The Venue.
While the team has not yet released full details or a name for their new Folsom venture, Archuleta confirmed that a new concept is in the works and will be announced in the coming weeks. Based on their track record, expectations are that the new eatery will reflect a similar vibrant energy that has made Cantina Alley a staple in Sacramento’s Midtown dining scene since 2018.
Since opening Cantina Alley in 2017, Aguilar and Archuleta have built a loyal following for their creative twist on authentic Mexican street fare—offering everything from elote and al pastor tacos to mezcal cocktails and colorful micheladas, all served in a dynamic, open-air environment. The Folsom project is expected to carry a similar spirit, adding new energy to the Sutter Street dining scene.
The space they’re taking over has a recent storied history of its own. Q’bole Cocina & Cantina operated in the district for two decades at two different locations before shuttering in February 2025 following a legal dispute. According to Sacramento County Superior Court records, on May 13, 2024 the former tenant was notified in a letter that they had not exercised their option to renew their lease and was instructed to vacate the space by July 31, 2024.
After a several months of failed lease negotiations and legal battles, the restaurant closed in February 2025. Despite the legal hurdles between the former tenant and the property owner, Moe Hirani, that continue in the courts, the physical vacancy has allowed room for something new to emerge. With Aguilar and Archuleta now on board, the property is being revitalize and an exact opening date has not been announced.
As the concept comes to life, residents and visitors can expect more details to surface soon. One thing is clear: the Sutter Street restaurant scene is about to get a major infusion of energy.
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