De Nada (Nathan Watson / Bham Now) — De Nada founder and owner Armando Martinez. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

A fresh new dining experience that blends Birmingham roots with elevated Mexican cuisine is opening soon in Birmingham’s Parkside District. De Nada, a new concept from local restaurateur Armando Martinez, is set to open its doors at Urban Supply this month.

We met with Armando for a special sneak peek ahead of De Nada’s grand opening.

A fresh vision inspired by family roots

For owner Armando Martinez, the restaurant industry isn’t new—it’s been part of his life since childhood. His family opened the first Hacienda restaurant in Chelsea in 2001, and Martinez grew up immersed in the day-to-day activities of restaurant life, from bussing tables and taking phone calls as a child to managing operations as an adult.

“I’ve always enjoyed the hospitality side of it—just welcoming people in, giving them the best experience possible and figuring out how to get better every day.”
Armando Martinez, Founder and Owner, De Nada

After more than 15 years in the business and taking over the Hacienda location when his parents retired, Martinez felt ready to create something of his own.

“I wanted to put my own stamp on something. There are a lot of great Mexican restaurants in Birmingham, but I felt like there was room for a more elevated experience, both in food and atmosphere.”
Armando Martinez, Founder and Owner, De Nada

At De Nada, elevated flavors meet a welcoming, authentic experience

When you walk into De Nada, it’s hard to tell what will catch your eye first. The stunning, wall-to-wall mural created by muralist Emma Gilbert? The open kitchen concept with views of fresh tortillas and churros being made to order? Or maybe the captivating ofrenda with a hand-carved wooden statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe?

“I want people to walk in and just feel like this is a place where they can relax, celebrate and just enjoy being here.”
Armando Martinez, Founder and Owner, De Nada

At De Nada, guests can expect a blend of familiar favorites and more refined, authentic dishes—and for Martinez, service is a top priority.

“We’re not trying to be white tablecloth fine dining. But we do want that elevated level of hospitality—where staff really know the menu, the ingredients and how to guide guests through the experience.”
Armando Martinez, Founder and Owner, De Nada

On the menu, De Nada will offer familiar classics like chips, salsa and quesadillas as well as more authentic dishes, like:

House-made tortillas prepared fresh daily
Family-recipe mole
Fresh ceviche with mahi mahi
Handmade tamales
Chiles rellenos made from scratch

The beverage program follows suit with fresh margaritas, house-made sangria and a creative twist on an espresso martini inspired by a traditional Mexican drink, horchata.

“If you’ve ever had Cinnamon Toast Crunch, horchata tastes like the leftover milk at the bottom of the bowl—cinnamon and vanilla. It’s a classic, traditional Mexican beverage. We’re using horchata on our unique spin on an Espresso Martini—it’s one of the drinks I’m most excited about.”
Armando Martinez, Founder and Owner, De Nada

De Nada is opening in Parkside this month

Pending final approvals, Armando Martinez aims to open De Nada by the end of April.

Once it’s official, De Nada will be open for lunch and dinner from 11AM to 9PM Sunday through Thursday, and 11AM to 10PM on Friday and Saturday.

De Nada: Website | Instagram
Location: 1300 2nd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

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