In the quiet village of Madeira Park sits one of the Sunshine Coast’s culinary gems: a Mexican restaurant serving authentic dishes full of flavour and tradition. Decorated with colourful Mexican art, Aqui es Mexico makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into another place the moment you walk through the door.
Selene Flores and Mel Aguilar opened Aqui es Mexico at Harbour Centre, on the corner of Highway 101 and Madeira Park Road, in 2019. Since then, it has grown into a neighbourhood favourite, attracting diners from across the Coast. Some even make the drive from Gibsons to enjoy their burritos, shrimp tacos, Mexican burgers, and other satisfying dishes.
Good food starts with fresh ingredients, and the team begins each day preparing for the meals ahead. Guided by their motto, “The Soul of Mexico, The Heart of Canada,” Mel and Selene bring traditional Mexican flavours and homemade recipes to the table, sharing a little of their heritage with every dish. It’s the kind of place where the food, colourful surroundings, and friendly atmosphere make a meal feel like more than just a stop for lunch or dinner.
In 2025, the couple expanded their business to Sechelt, opening Mextizo Mexican Restaurant. The new location brings the same much-loved flavours to another Sunshine Coast community, giving more people the chance to enjoy their take on Mexican cuisine.
But there’s more to these restaurants than food. Both locations help bring people together through special events and lively gatherings. Mextizo, for example, hosts occasional live music, karaoke nights, and dances. On October 31, the restaurant will celebrate Day of the Dead with drink specials, Mexican bingo, and dancing to Latin tunes—a festive way to experience an important Mexican tradition.
It’s a pleasure to see family-owned businesses like Aqui es Mexico and Mextizo thrive on the Coast. They offer not only delicious food but also a welcoming space to share culture, celebrate traditions, and bring the community together. And that’s something worth raising a glass to.
For restaurant locations, hours, and menus, please visit aquiesmexico.ca and mextizo.ca.