Catrina’s Mexican Grill opened along McGinnis Ferry Road at about the least reassuring moment possible: the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Six years later, the restaurant remains in McGinnis Ferry Promenade, serving a corridor that draws diners from Johns Creek, Alpharetta and South Forsyth.
Its longevity is easy to overlook. Catrina’s occupies the sort of suburban shopping-center space where restaurants often come and go, but it has gradually become an established neighborhood presence—particularly for families seeking a casual dinner, drinks or a table large enough for a group.
The dining room gives the restaurant a character of its own. Bright papel picado banners cross the ceiling, while colorful calaveras, Catrina portraits and other Day of the Dead imagery appear throughout the room. Hand-painted bar chairs depict scenes of rural Mexican life, and warm wood walls frame the bar. Together, the elements create something more personal than the familiar, lightly decorated suburban Mexican restaurant.
The menu is broad without requiring a complete study before ordering. Tacos, enchiladas, burritos and fajitas cover the expected neighborhood favorites, while birria, house-made tamales, mole, whole fried tilapia and large mixed grills offer room to move beyond them. A full bar, margaritas and Mexican aguas frescas complete the familiar cantina experience…