Folsom’s culinary landscape has a bold new flavor as Nixtaco has officially opened its doors, seamlessly rebranding their former Cantina Pedregal space into the bustling new Nixtaco. In what may have been one of the fastest restaurant transformations the community has seen, the familiar Pedregal space was closed on April 19 and, by April 23, reemerged as the vibrant and bustling Nixtaco, complete with new signage and an expansive menu that already has local food lovers buzzing.
The team behind the change is no stranger to success. Nixtaco founders Patricio Wise and Cinthia Martinez, both natives of Monterrey, Mexico, are known for their commitment to quality and authenticity, a philosophy that has driven the success of their original location, Nixtaco Mexican Kitchen, in Roseville. Recognized nationally — including a feature in Food & Wine as one of America’s best taco restaurants — Nixtaco brings a level of culinary craft and tradition that few can match, and now Folsom gets a taste of it firsthand.
The arrival of Nixtaco in Folsom was not only met with eager diners but also with official recognition. On the eve of its opening, Nixtaco was honored with the Emerging Business of the Year Award at the 2025 Choose Folsom Community Awards — an accolade that perfectly captured the restaurant’s swift adaptation and bright future.
“Just one week before the event, local restaurant Pedregal made the bold decision to close, rebrand, and reopen under their original and more widely known identity: Nixtaco,” the award announcement read. “Their swift pivot was received with strong community support and enthusiasm.”
Award presenter Shannon Robb-Bundalian of Choose Folsom praised the move, calling it a shining example of business savvy and community responsiveness.
“Their ability to listen to customers and evolve their concept is impressive,” Robb-Bundalian said. “We are so excited to welcome Nixtaco to Folsom. They bring bold vision, strong practices, and an energy that elevates our community.”
In a video message played during the awards ceremony, the Nixtaco team expressed their gratitude.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized in this way,” they shared. “Folsom has been so supportive, and we look forward to many more years of success here.”
A Fast, Flavorful New Chapter
The transformation from Cantina Pedregal to Nixtaco was not just about a name change — it represents a return to roots for Wise and Martinez. Nixtaco’s mission has always been to honor the rich culinary traditions of Mexico with a modern, innovative twist. They pride themselves on using scratch-made techniques, from their in-house nixtamalization of corn to their locally sourced, sustainable ingredients — the true essence of “Farm to Tacos.”
By reintroducing the Nixtaco brand, Wise and Martinez bring back a menu full of exciting, flavorful dishes that have drawn loyal fans across the region. Those dining at the Folsom location can now enjoy a range of offerings including signature tacos, burritos, Mexican ramen, and hearty plates that blend authentic flavors with creative flair.
A look at the menu reveals mouthwatering options like their Taco de Brisket with smoked beef and a rich guajillo salsa, Carnitas Taco slow-cooked to perfection, and the Cauliflower Taco for a vegetarian twist packed with flavor. The menu also features innovative favorites like Nixtaco’s Mexican Ramen, made with carnitas broth and topped with slow-braised pork and noodles, and specialty burritos like the Brisket Burrito or the Mole Poblano Burrito with tender chicken and rich house-made mole sauce.
Guests can also indulge in their traditional Quesabirria, Tortas, Chilaquiles, and Tamales — all crafted with attention to authentic techniques and ingredients. Their full menu, available for online ordering here, shows that whether you’re in the mood for traditional comfort or a bold twist on classics, Nixtaco is prepared to deliver.
A Seamless Shift for Folsom’s Foodies
The shift from Cantina Pedregal to Nixtaco was a bittersweet but strategic one. When Cantina Pedregal opened in mid-2023, it brought a modern, fine-dining approach to Mexican cuisine and was well-received for its artisan quality. However, the owners reflected on the evolving dining habits and demands of the community and chose to pivot.
“After much reflection and many heartfelt conversations, we made the incredibly difficult decision to close Cantina Pedregal,” they shared in their announcement earlier this month. “While this decision is bittersweet, it also marks an exciting new chapter. We are thrilled to announce that our beloved sister restaurant, Nixtaco, will be taking its place.”
Supporters of Cantina Pedregal voiced their sadness at the closure but were quick to show enthusiasm for the new venture.
“Our loss, you guys were wonderful! Glad to hear that Patricio will be expanding,” one Folsom resident commented online.
Another added, “Very sad to hear! I hope you continue a couple of the phenomenal dishes I had the pleasure to enjoy at Pedregal, if even just as occasional specials.”
Wise and Martinez echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that the values of authenticity, craft, and community would remain at the heart of everything they do — now under the Nixtaco banner.
Now Open and Already Thriving
Today, Nixtaco is open for dining indoors and on its outdoor patio seven days a week. Reservations are recommended on weekends as word quickly spreads about Folsom’s newest taco destination. Takeout is also available exclusively through their online ordering system.
From the first bustling weekend to the enthusiastic community response, it’s clear that Nixtaco’s move to Folsom has already made a mark. What started as a rapid transformation has become a story of resilience, adaptability, and culinary passion — all fueled by a deep respect for tradition and an appetite for innovation.
With bold flavors, a welcoming spirit, and a philosophy of doing things the right way — not just the trendy way — Nixtaco is poised to become a staple of Folsom’s dining scene for years to come. For more information or to place an order, visit Nixtaco Folsom.
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