Baja Cantina

Baja Cantina Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: Baja Cantina is the epitome of a landmark restaurant. Imagine that it first opened its doors in September 1975, and it is still up and running. In the City of Angels that is quite a record! Mike Dobson, who also owns the Venice Whaler, and his business partner Eric Beranek have now taken over. As Dobson is a true Venice lover --- he has been living there for over four decades, and doing a lot for the local community --- we are counting on him to keep the restaurant as it is. We love its old-timer feel and atmosphere, though we already know he will undertake a few changes to make it even better as we have seen what he has successfully done at the Venice Whaler. Don’t let the look fool you into thinking this place is just dedicated to the local surfers, it’s also great for casual neighborhood meal and time with family and friends. The patio is the place to be; once in, it will be hard to leave, it is so cozy and the fire pit adds warmth.

Likes: Daily happy hour when drinks and food items are priced at $4.50. Free valet parking for lunch and brunch.
Dislikes: You might be leaving after a few (too) many margaritas. Be careful going home.

About the food: The cuisine is classic Oaxacan dishes. The choices are ample, from quesadillas, ensaladas y sopas to gourmet enchiladas, burritos and tacos, all composed with meat or fish (there are too many choices to list here). One page of the menu is for “Especiales de la Casa,” including fajitas (select your main ingredient), fresh catch blackened fish or Guadalajara carnitas fiesta. Cross the border for the 16 oz. grilled certified Angus bone-in rib-eye or the double cheddar bacon burger. Of course, you will find the inevitable nachos, guacamole, poblano chile relleno and churros para terminar.

About the drinks: When it comes to the drinks, if you opt for a margarita, you will have to make a selection out of the ten that are offered. The tequilas are divided into “blanco,” “reposado,” “anejo” and “premium” making it easy for you to pick, unless you are going for the house cocktails, cervezas and a small selection of wines.