This is the second location for Carlos Molina, a Mexican entrepreneur who opened La Taquería by Sed de México in Tomares a few years ago. La Cantina is located in the heart of the barrio Santa Cruz, in the emblematic Plaza de la Alianza. The cosy interior has a small bar and comfortable seating in the dining area. Outside the orange tree filled terraza overlooks the plaza’s famous fountain and old city walls. A perfect spot to enjoy a meal at any time (there’s an all-day kitchen) and also to delve into La Cantina’s extensive cocktail menu – the plaza is especially lovely at night.

First off… this is not Tex Mex. The menu offers a selection of starters, soft corn tacos and main dishes, and desserts. Can I tell you right now? Do not miss the spicy oyster shot, even if you think you don’t like oysters. Omg. We started with classic cocktails – a margarita and a mojito – to enjoy with guacamole and house made totopos, accompanied by a couple of sauces (one mild, one spicy). You can also get the guacamole with octopus or pork belly, but we were saving ourselves. The tacos (we had the pastor and one with octopus and pork) were both excellent and bursting with flavour. Then we shared a main course of grilled marinated gambones served on frijoles. By this time I was also bursting but my friend had space enough to try the 3 leches dessert. We loved all of it.

Let me repeat… this is not Tex Mex. You won’t find cheesy nachos, burritos, etc. Which also makes it perfect for people requiring gluten free or lactose free options (also lots of good vegetarian dishes on the menu). I recommend you go with friends and share the dishes, which is what I plan to do next time. Two of us barely got started. The service was very pleasant and, aside from cocktails, there are good wines and a selection of national and Mexican beers. Also check out the mezcal and tequila menu.

Full disclosure: I was unable to attend the inauguration in February so the folks at La Cantina invited me to come another time and try a few things on the menu. As always, opinions here are my own.

Bread/Service Charge: 0€

Plaza de la Alianza
Tel 954 112 354
Open 12.30 – midnight
All Day Kitchen
€ € € €

Food 9 | Wine 7 | Service 7 | Ambiance 8

margarita & mojito

spicy oyster shot with clamato juice

guacamole with totopos and sauces

tacos!

marinated grilled octopus taco with sliced pork crackling in a soft corn tortilla
with red sauce and cilantro shoots

taco pastor, filled with pork adobada, onion, cilantro, pineapple and salsa verde

grilled gambones “enchipotlados ” in an exquisite adobo
with mogo mogo and frijoles

tres leches

mini frozen margarita shots

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