Old Mexico Cantina is a vibrant culinary destination that transports diners to the heart of traditional Mexican cuisine. Renowned for its authentic flavors, lively atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage, the cantina offers a menu that celebrates the diverse and robust tastes of Mexico.
From zesty appetizers to hearty mains, every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes that evoke the spirit of Mexican street food and family gatherings. Whether you are a fan of spicy salsas, smoky grilled meats, or comforting stews, Old Mexico Cantina delivers an experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
The menu reflects a deep respect for Mexican culinary traditions while embracing contemporary twists that enhance each bite. Diners can expect to find a balance of classic staples, such as tacos and enchiladas, alongside innovative creations that showcase the chef’s creativity.
The commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in every item, making Old Mexico Cantina a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the depth of Mexico’s gastronomic landscape.
Beyond the food, the cantina’s menu is designed to encourage sharing and celebration, capturing the communal spirit that defines Mexican dining. Each section offers carefully curated dishes that pair perfectly with handcrafted cocktails and refreshing beverages.
Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or a festive night out, the Old Mexico Cantina menu promises an immersive and flavorful journey.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Old Mexico Cantina sets the tone for a flavorful meal, featuring a variety of bold, vibrant starters that awaken the palate. These dishes combine traditional ingredients with creative presentation, giving guests a preview of the rich flavors to come.
Classic appetizers like guacamole and chips offer a fresh, creamy start, while options such as ceviche and quesadillas provide contrasting textures and tastes. Each dish is prepared with an emphasis on balance, ensuring that the spices and flavors complement rather than overpower.
For those looking for something hearty, the cantina’s signature nachos loaded with melted cheese, jalapeños, and seasoned meat make for a crowd-pleasing choice. Meanwhile, vegetarian and gluten-free options are thoughtfully included to accommodate diverse dietary preferences.
- Guacamole & Chips: Fresh avocados mashed with lime, cilantro, onions, and tomatoes served with crispy tortilla chips.
- Ceviche: Marinated seafood in lime juice with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, offering a light and zesty bite.
- Quesadillas: Flour tortillas filled with cheese and your choice of chicken, beef, or vegetables, grilled to perfection.
- Loaded Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, beans, sour cream, and your choice of protein.
“An appetizer should be a teaser, a delicious hint of the feast to follow.” – Old Mexico Cantina Chef
Tacos and Traditional Entrées
Tacos form the heart of the Old Mexico Cantina menu, offering an array of fillings that honor Mexican culinary heritage. The traditional entrées section expands on this with a variety of main dishes that showcase time-tested recipes passed down through generations.
Each taco is crafted with carefully selected corn or flour tortillas, filled with flavorful meats, seafood, or vegetables, and topped with fresh salsas, onions, and cilantro. The use of authentic spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika ensures depth and complexity in every bite.
Beyond tacos, traditional entrées include hearty dishes such as mole poblano, carnitas, and chile rellenos. These plates often feature rich sauces and slow-cooked meats, providing a satisfying and comforting eating experience that highlights the diversity of Mexican cuisine.
Popular Taco Varieties
- Al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
- Barbacoa: Slow-cooked beef with smoky undertones, paired with fresh salsa verde.
- Fish Tacos: Lightly battered and fried fish topped with cabbage slaw and creamy chipotle sauce.
- Vegetarian: Grilled seasonal vegetables with black beans and avocado slices.
| Entrée | Main Ingredients | Spice Level |
| Mole Poblano | Chicken, chocolate, chili peppers, spices | Medium |
| Carnitas | Pork, garlic, orange, cumin | Low |
| Chile Rellenos | Poblano peppers, cheese, tomato sauce | Medium |
Soups and Salads
Soups and salads at Old Mexico Cantina blend lightness with traditional flavors, providing refreshing options that complement heavier entrées. These dishes are designed to enhance the overall meal experience.
The soups range from brothy and spicy to creamy and rich, utilizing fresh herbs and regional ingredients to deliver authentic tastes. Salads offer crisp textures and vibrant colors, often incorporating elements like roasted corn, avocado, and queso fresco.
Both soups and salads are perfect as starters or light meals on their own, appealing to those seeking balanced nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Signature Soups
- Chicken Tortilla Soup: A hearty broth with shredded chicken, tomatoes, avocado, and crispy tortilla strips.
- Black Bean Soup: Creamy black beans blended with spices and topped with sour cream and cilantro.
- Caldo de Res: Traditional beef and vegetable soup, slow-cooked for deep flavor.
Fresh Salads
- Mexican Street Salad: Mixed greens, grilled corn, jicama, and cotija cheese with a lime vinaigrette.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad: Sliced avocado and heirloom tomatoes drizzled with chili-lime dressing.
“A good salad and soup balance the meal, cleansing the palate and refreshing the senses.” – Old Mexico Cantina Nutritionist
Specialty Sides
Sides at Old Mexico Cantina are more than just accompaniments; they are integral components that elevate the dining experience. These specialty sides offer traditional flavors with a creative touch, designed to balance the main dishes.
From creamy refried beans to spicy Mexican rice, each side dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. The use of fresh herbs, citrus, and authentic spices ensures that these sides complement rather than compete with the main courses.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, reflecting the cantina’s dedication to inclusivity and flavor variety.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and onions, seasoned with cumin.
- Refried Beans: Slow-cooked pinto beans mashed and lightly fried with garlic and spices.
- Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob with mayo, chili powder, lime, and cotija cheese.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal selections marinated and charred for smoky flavor.
| Side Dish | Main Ingredients | Vegetarian |
| Mexican Rice | Rice, tomato, garlic, onion, cumin | Yes |
| Refried Beans | Pinto beans, garlic, oil | Yes |
| Street Corn | Corn, mayo, chili powder, cotija cheese | No (contains dairy) |
| Grilled Vegetables | Seasonal vegetables, spices | Yes |
Desserts
Old Mexico Cantina’s dessert menu is a delightful conclusion to a flavorful meal. The offerings focus on traditional Mexican sweets that are rich, comforting, and often infused with warm spices and citrus notes.
Each dessert is made fresh, using classic ingredients like cinnamon, vanilla, and chocolate. The variety ranges from creamy custards to crispy fried treats, ensuring there is something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
The menu also includes options that pair beautifully with coffee or dessert cocktails, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
- Churros: Fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon sugar, served with chocolate dipping sauce.
- Flan: Creamy caramel custard with a smooth texture and delicate sweetness.
- Sopapillas: Puffy fried bread served with honey and powdered sugar.
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: Rich chocolate cake infused with cinnamon and chili.
“Dessert is the final note, the sweet harmony that completes the meal’s melody.” – Old Mexico Cantina Pastry Chef
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Old Mexico Cantina complements the food with a broad selection of traditional and contemporary drinks. Crafted cocktails highlight Mexican spirits like tequila and mezcal, while non-alcoholic options feature fresh juices and aguas frescas.
Signature cocktails combine fresh herbs, citrus, and spices for unique flavor profiles that enhance the dining experience. The drink menu is designed to appeal to both adventurous palates and those seeking familiar favorites.
For wine lovers, a carefully curated list includes Mexican wines alongside international selections, ensuring perfect pairings for every dish.
Signature Cocktails
- Margarita: Classic blend of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, served on the rocks or frozen.
- Paloma: Tequila mixed with grapefruit soda and a hint of salt for a refreshing twist.
- Mezcal Negroni: Smoky mezcal replaces gin in this classic cocktail for bold flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- Horchata: Sweet rice milk with cinnamon and vanilla.
- Agua de Jamaica: Hibiscus flower iced tea with a tart and refreshing taste.
- Fresh Limeade: Made with freshly squeezed limes and a touch of sweetness.
| Beverage | Main Ingredients | Alcohol Content |
| Margarita | Tequila, lime, triple sec | High |
| Horchata | Rice milk, cinnamon, vanilla | None |
| Paloma | Tequila, grapefruit soda, salt | Moderate |
| Agua de Jamaica | Hibiscus, sugar, water | None |
Family-Style Platters and Sharing Plates
Old Mexico Cantina embraces the communal nature of Mexican dining with family-style platters and sharing plates. These options encourage guests to enjoy a diverse array of flavors together, making meals lively and interactive.
Platters are thoughtfully assembled to include a variety of meats, vegetables, and sides, allowing diners to experience the full breadth of the cantina’s offerings. Sharing plates are ideal for groups or those who want to sample multiple dishes in one sitting.
The presentation of these meals often reflects festive Mexican traditions, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Fiesta Platter: Combination of grilled steak, chicken, chorizo, with rice, beans, and tortillas.
- Vegetarian Sharing Plate: Grilled vegetables, cheese enchiladas, guacamole, and Mexican rice.
- Seafood Sampler: Shrimp tacos, ceviche, and fish ceviche tostadas with fresh salsa.
“Sharing food is sharing culture; it brings people closer and creates lasting memories.” – Old Mexico Cantina Owner
Conclusion
The Old Mexico Cantina menu is a celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine that balances tradition with innovation. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the rich flavors and vibrant ingredients that define Mexico’s culinary heritage.
From the lively appetizers to the comforting entrées and indulgent desserts, the menu offers a diverse range of options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
The attention to detail in ingredient selection, preparation methods, and presentation underscores the cantina’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether dining solo, with family, or a group of friends, the menu’s structure encourages sharing and exploration, making each visit a dynamic and memorable experience.
Paired with an extensive beverage list featuring classic cocktails and fresh non-alcoholic drinks, Old Mexico Cantina provides a complete sensory journey that delights both the palate and the spirit. For those seeking genuine Mexican flavors served in a warm and spirited environment, this cantina stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and cultural pride.
