Cantina Real

Cantina Real Restaurant Review:

There has been a strong movement of late to make Mexican food trendy and sophisticated by way of unexpected ingredients, ritzy dining rooms and complicated cooking techniques. For those who prefer the old-school Mexican fare of nachos, burritos, beans and cheese, one should look no further than Cantina Real. The colorful dining room has plenty of seating options, whether at the long bar, booths in the main dining area, or tables in the Sun Room parallel to PCH. Guacamole is ripe with chunks of Haas avocado, a perfect accompaniment to the entire meal. Pork carnitas are tender from hours of cooking time, and steak “picado” is satisfying with its blend of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions and tomatoes. Enchiladas “Jaiba” are filled with crab meat and cheese that makes for a rich entrée, while fajitas are attractive, as they come sizzling to customers’ tables. Churros are the star for dessert, drenched in chocolate sauce and served with vanilla ice cream. Made potent and fresh, margaritas are available by the glass or pitcher and go down easy. There are also a few beers on draft from local brewers.