Pantera opens in Caguas with $500K investment in Asian cuisine, cocktails
Grupo Avilés has opened Pantera, a new restaurant and bar in Caguas offering contemporary Asian cuisine and craft cocktails, following a $500,000 investment.
Located at 75 Celis Aguilera St. and 9 Padial St., the 2,500-square-foot space seats 50 and employs 15 staff. The concept blends minimalist Asian-inspired design with experimental gastronomy and theatrical cocktail service.
“Pantera represents the evolution of our vision as a group. We’ve built solid brands, but this project is pure art. It’s our boldest undertaking yet,” said Carlos Avilés, president of Grupo Avilés, which has spent more than a decade developing food and lifestyle concepts.
The bar program is led by Nicky Fas, a well-known Puerto Rico mixologist, whose menu incorporates Asian fermentation techniques and ingredients presented with visual flair.
“Pantera is a statement. We don’t just want our guests to try something different; we want them to feel something they’ve never felt before,” Fas said.
Chef Ángel Acevedo leads the kitchen with a menu that combines Asian flavors and modern culinary techniques, designed to engage both sight and taste.
Grupo Avilés expects Pantera to contribute to Caguas’ revitalization by drawing local visitors and adding to the city’s nightlife.
