In the Kitchen With: Plaza Mariachi

Plaza Mariachi is a cultural entertainment center in Nashville that offers a food hall, shops, and entertainment from all over the world.

The business is owned by Mark and Diane Janbakhsh, Brentwood residents who have called Williamson County home for more than 20 years. They raised their family in the city, and Plaza Mariachi is a family-run business.

“We love contributing to our county as well as the city of Nashville. It is a blessing to be able to serve the surrounding communities and host events and festivals that bring joy to families from all over walks of life,” Diane says.

When they purchased the property that used to be a Kroger, the couple was not sure what they were going to do. Together, they built the space that would become Plaza Mariachi, which exists to celebrate cultural diversity, a gathering place for all ages and all backgrounds to experience and participate in the beauty of international expressions.

In addition to all they offer, Plaza Mariachi now has an event space for weddings and private parties. The Janbakhshs’ daughter was even married in the space that looks like a castle.

From dining to live music and even shopping, there is truly something for the whole family. You will find unique shopping choices that are not available anywhere else in Nashville, including a variety of clothes and dresses from Mexico, Central and South America perfect for quinceañeras, jewelry, and so much more.

Plaza Mariachi also has some amazing food choices available in the Food Hall, including authentic Mexican food from Taquería Hidalgo, delicious steaks from Tres Gauchos, refreshing bubble tea from WIN, delicious paletas and ice cream from Paletas Tocumbo, and cold beer or cocktails from Z-Bar (they also have fabulous margaritas).

On Saturday evenings from 7-9 p.m., Plaza Mariachi offers free, family-friendly dinner shows featuring different entertainers from around the world. A typical show includes a live band, circus performances, authentic cultural dances from a range of nations, and tribute shows to iconic artists.

Before, during, and after each show, you can find princesses and superheroes roaming the plaza entertaining children, plus balloon artists, henna tattoos, and other fun activities.

Loteria, the beloved Mexican bingo-style game, is played at Plaza Mariachi every Tuesday night from 6-8 p.m. with cash prizes.

Lunch with characters from favorite TV and movies, including superheroes, princesses, villains, and more, is also offered on Saturdays from noon-2 p.m.

On Thursday nights, Plaza Mariachi holds Salsa Night beginning at 7 p.m. Guests can have dinner and then stay for free salsa lessons taught by professional instructors, and afterward is dancing until midnight.

“We are thrilled that our events, restaurants, and shows are back in full swing after such a difficult time during the pandemic,” says Tailiah Scroggins, marketing director. “We have added more festivals and weekly activities. If this is the first time hearing about Plaza Mariachi, I recommend checking the event calendar on our website to see all of the wonderful activities we have going on. Whether you are going out with a group of friends, your family, or planning a date night, there is something for everyone.”

Plaza Mariachi is located at 3955 Nolensville Pike in Nashville. Visit www.plazamariachi.com to learn more and see the event schedule.