The Mission, a modern Latin restaurant led by Chef Matt Carter, will open its third location at 3150 E. Ray Road, suite 180, at Epicenter in the Agritopia neighborhood of Gilbert in late 2025.

The Mission will replace Belly Kitchen & Bar, whose owners have chosen to pursue new restaurant ventures in Phoenix. Belly will be open through Dec. 31.

“We are grateful for everything Belly has brought to our community and wish its owners every success in their next chapter," Johnston & Co. founder Joe Johnston said in a release. "At the same time, we’re thrilled to welcome The Mission, a restaurant we’ve admired for years.

“The Mission embodies everything we seek in a tenant — a local concept driven by passion, backed by strong business acumen, and committed to delivering a distinctive dining experience. We know they’ll bring something truly special to Epicenter."

Carter, Brian Raab, and their team will bring The Mission’s signature dishes, including house-made tortillas, Mission Guacamole prepared tableside, and the “Whole Roasted Pig Out,” which is an all-you-can-eat weekend brunch experience.

The new location will also feature an agave-centric bar, offering craft cocktails.

“We’ve always admired the vision behind Epicenter at Agritopia," Carter said. "When we first explored joining the project, we were excited by its potential, but the timing wasn’t right then. We’re thrilled that it has come together now.

"Expanding The Mission to this incredible location feels like the perfect next step for us. We can’t wait to share our passion for Latin cuisine with the greater Gilbert community."

Robert Cissell, owner of Belly, shared his outlook on the transition.

“We’ve loved being part of the Epicenter community and are incredibly proud of what our team has built," Cissell said. "We’re excited for what’s next and know that The Mission will be a fantastic addition to this community."

The new restaurant is scheduled to open in late 2025, with a redesigned space featuring expanded seating, a mission-style storefront, and a bar. The Mission will offer lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

www.themissionaz.com

For more information on the upcoming opening and updates from Epicenter at Agritopia, visit https://epicenteratagritopia.com/ or follow @EpicenterAgritopia on Instagram.