The Silver Iguana

The Silver Iguana is a Mexican-inspired cantina located at 663 Winton Rd N in Rochester's North Winton Village neighborhood. Opened in April 2017, the restaurant was created by Aaron Gibalski and Shane Stevens, who converted the former Brunello Wine Bar space into a casual spot focused on tacos, tequila, and margaritas. Gibalski is also behind other Rochester establishments including The Bug Jar and Dragonfly Tavern. The concept draws on an old-time saloon aesthetic, and the building itself is a converted house that lends the dining room an intimate, neighborhood feel.

The menu centers on Mexican staples with a creative edge. Core offerings include:

• Tacos — options range from shrimp and coconut fish tacos to slow-cooked pork, adobo chicken, and carne asada varieties
• Burritos — oversized flour-tortilla wraps with add-ons like chorizo, guacamole, and bacon, plus an enchilada-style option
• Enchiladas — available with red, verde, or mole amarillo sauce and a choice of proteins including barbacoa and ground beef
• Appetizers and sides — chips and queso, salads, and chicken wings
• Brunch items — huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos round out weekend offerings

The bar program features a curated tequila selection alongside margaritas and other cocktails. The restaurant also offers catering services and online ordering for pickup.

The Silver Iguana has built its identity around the pairing of Mexican street-food staples with a full cocktail bar in a laid-back, neighborhood setting. The taco lineup and margarita program are the focal points of the menu, and the restaurant's porch and patio seating make it a draw during Rochester's warmer months. Tuesday taco specials — featuring discounted options on flour tortillas — have become a weekly fixture since the cantina opened.

The Silver Iguana sits on Winton Road North in the heart of North Winton Village, a walkable commercial stretch on Rochester's east side. The neighborhood is home to a cluster of independent shops, bars, and eateries, giving the area a distinct small-village character within the city. The restaurant occupies a converted residential building with porch and patio seating out front. Street parking is available along Winton Road. The cantina is open Tuesday through Sunday, with weekday hours starting in the late morning or afternoon and extending into the evening.