New Mexican Restaurant Coming Soon To Medford

MEDFORD, MA — A new Mexican eatery is moving into a spot formerly occupied by a burger restaurant.

Cilantro’s Mexican Grill is slated to launch a second location at 495 Riverside Ave. in the Wellington neighborhood, the site of a former Smashburger location. The burger chain location closed its doors back in January after more than a decade. Representatives from Cilantro went in front of the Medford City Council this week to be granted a Common Victualler License, which gives businesses permission to sell food. The restaurant also had extended hours approved by the Council allowing it to remain open until 12 a.m. seven days a week.

“Our type of fast-food business lends itself to the busy working customer and late-night crowds, " the business said in a statement. “As we did our research on Fellsway Plaza and the surrounding neighborhoods, we observed that it retains its vibrant activity well into the night. Most of the restaurants here cater to that late-night crowd by staying open later.”

Marycela Rodenzo is named as the owner of the business. Cilantro’s has another location on 323 Main St. in Saugus, which opened in early 2025.

Council Member Matt Leming said he is looking forward to the location opening, as his parents wanted to eat there the last time they visited the city.

“I’m very glad to see that we’re making progress here in this very council meeting toward fixing that situation and hopefully I’ll be able to eat there with them the next time they visit town,” Leming said. “Welcome to the neighborhood and I'm looking forward to trying some of your vegetarian options.”

An exact opening date for Cilantro's Medford has not yet been revealed.

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