Kucera chose to sell to Rreal Tacos because the group committed to preserving the building and converting it into a hospitality destination while highlighting its historic features, the company said.
“This building has watched over downtown St. Pete for more than a hundred years. We didn’t buy it to change what it is — we bought it to honor it, fill it with life and hospitality for the next chapter of its life,” CEO Damian Otero said.
The deal moved quickly after news spread that Red Mesa Cantina would be closing.
Rreal Tacos said Otero flew to St. Petersburg the same day and met with the building’s owner within hours.
The company also credited broker Harrison Gault with connecting the two sides.