Bar Diana, serving our friends since 1957.

(Picture of Don Raul Mateus in front of Bar Diana back in 1958)

             Back in 1957 Tecate still had more horses than people, nothing but endless grape vine fields at the foot of the Cuchumá, only two banks, and you could park your car anywhere. But we lacked a wholesome venue where friends could gather over a cup. That summer Don Raul Mateus Maines opened the doors of Bar Diana. The name was inspired by the life-size bronze sculpture of the deity of the hunt aiming its arrow from atop the fountain in the patio of the bar. The Diana quickly became the social epicenter of Tecate where casual meetings grew and blossomed into lifelong friendships. It was here where the happy news of a new baby or the sad passing of an old friend could be shared with a warm abrazo.

            A lot has happened in over fifty years. One dark and rainy night in 1974 the nude Diana was abducted from her place on the fountain. The bronze huntress was never seen again. Who stole her away in the night? Is she sequestered in some local politico’s basement? Was she put in a car and driven to the Other Side? Only God knows. There are lots of theories but the disappearance of the Diana remains an undisclosed mystery.

            Today Bar Diana is a venerable landmark, a legend famous over much of the world. You might touch glasses and say “salud” to a visitor from England, Germany, Russia, Ireland, South Africa, Kansas City, a local ranchero or el presidente. But the Diana is more than a place to relax over a cold beer or sip the perfect margarita. There exists a magical aura about the Diana that defies explanation. It’s a feeling of frendship and family that you feel inside when you walk in the door. Some happy couples have even been married right here.

And now Carlos Mateus, son of Don Raul invites you visit us and experience a little of Tecate's hospitality with some fun and alegria!