Discover the vibrant flavors and inviting atmosphere of Cantina 109, a culinary destination that celebrates the rich heritage of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. The Cantina 109 menu is thoughtfully crafted to offer guests an authentic yet innovative dining experience, blending traditional ingredients with contemporary preparation methods.
Whether you’re craving bold street tacos, fresh ceviche, or a perfectly balanced margarita, the menu provides a diverse selection designed to satisfy every palate.
At Cantina 109, the emphasis lies not only on flavor but on quality, sourcing local and sustainable ingredients whenever possible. The menu reflects a commitment to bold, fresh tastes that honor Mexican culinary traditions while encouraging guests to explore new combinations.
Each section of the menu caters to different dining moods, from light appetizers to hearty entrees and indulgent desserts. With an extensive beverage list complementing the dishes, Cantina 109 promises a memorable meal that invites you to savor every bite and sip.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Cantina 109 is designed to whet your appetite and set the stage for the meal ahead. With a variety of small plates inspired by Mexican street food and regional specialties, these starters are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo as a light snack.
From handcrafted guacamole to crispy totopos, the appetizers combine fresh, vibrant flavors with satisfying textures. Ingredients like roasted corn, fresh cilantro, and house-made salsas elevate the dishes, providing a balance of spice, acidity, and crunch.
Each item promises a burst of flavor that is both approachable and exciting.
Popular choices include:
- Elote Street Corn – Grilled corn on the cob coated with a creamy chipotle sauce, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
- Queso Fundido – Melted cheese blended with chorizo or mushrooms, served with warm tortillas for dipping.
- Ceviche de Camarón – Fresh shrimp marinated in lime juice with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, offering a zesty and refreshing start to your meal.
Appetizer Flavor Profiles
| Dish | Primary Flavors | Texture |
| Elote Street Corn | Smoky, spicy, creamy | Crunchy, smooth |
| Queso Fundido | Rich, savory, slightly spicy | Melty, gooey |
| Ceviche de Camarón | Tart, fresh, herbal | Tender, juicy |
“The appetizer selection at Cantina 109 perfectly balances tradition with creativity, inviting diners to explore new flavors while honoring Mexican roots.”
Tacos and Tortas
Tacos and tortas form the heart of Cantina 109’s menu, showcasing an array of fillings and toppings that celebrate regional Mexican flavors. These handheld delights offer an interactive and flavorful way to enjoy the restaurant’s signature ingredients.
The taco offerings range from classic carne asada and al pastor to inventive vegetarian options featuring seasonal vegetables and house-made sauces. The tortas, Mexican-style sandwiches, are generously filled and toasted to perfection, delivering a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.
Highlights include:
- Al Pastor Tacos – Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro on soft corn tortillas.
- Veggie Torta – Roasted seasonal vegetables, avocado, and chipotle mayo on a freshly baked bolillo roll.
- Barbacoa Tacos – Slow-cooked beef with a rich, smoky flavor, topped with pickled red onions and fresh herbs.
Comparing Tacos and Tortas
| Aspect | Tacos | Tortas |
| Main Ingredients | Corn or flour tortillas, various fillings | Bolillo bread, hearty fillings |
| Serving Style | Open-faced, easy to eat | Closed sandwich, more filling |
| Eating Experience | Light, perfect for multiple varieties | Hearty, more substantial meal |
“Tacos and tortas at Cantina 109 are crafted with care, offering a perfect balance of tradition and innovation that keeps guests coming back for more.”
Signature Entrees
For those seeking a more substantial meal, the signature entrees section presents a variety of dishes that highlight Cantina 109’s culinary expertise. These plates often incorporate slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and vibrant sauces that showcase bold Mexican flavors.
The entrees are carefully plated and designed to provide a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Ingredients are sourced to ensure freshness and authenticity, with many recipes inspired by regional Mexican cooking traditions.
Favorites include:
- Pollo en Mole Negro – Tender chicken simmered in a complex, rich mole sauce made from chilies, nuts, and spices.
- Pescado a la Veracruzana – Fresh fish cooked with tomatoes, capers, olives, and herbs for a tangy, savory dish.
- Carne Asada Plate – Grilled steak served with grilled vegetables, rice, and beans for a classic Mexican dining experience.
Entrees Nutritional Overview
| Dish | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
| Pollo en Mole Negro | 650 | 45 | 30 |
| Pescado a la Veracruzana | 520 | 40 | 18 |
| Carne Asada Plate | 700 | 50 | 35 |
“The signature entrees at Cantina 109 exemplify the depth and variety of Mexican cuisine, offering dishes that are both hearty and full of flavor.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Cantina 109 recognizes the importance of accommodating diverse dietary preferences and offers a thoughtfully curated selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options feature fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with the same care and authenticity as the rest of the menu.
Vegetarian and vegan diners can enjoy flavorful meals that avoid compromise, ranging from protein-rich legumes and tofu to grilled vegetables and vibrant salsas. The kitchen ensures that every dish is balanced, colorful, and satisfying.
Noteworthy dishes include:
- Chiles Rellenos – Poblano peppers stuffed with seasoned vegetables and vegan cheese, baked in a rich tomato sauce.
- Ensalada de Nopales – A refreshing cactus salad with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Vegan Tacos – Filled with grilled mushrooms, roasted peppers, and black beans, topped with avocado and salsa verde.
Key Ingredients for Plant-Based Dishes
- Nopales – Edible cactus pads with a slightly tart flavor and a crisp texture.
- Black Beans – A staple in Mexican cuisine, providing protein and fiber.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Chiles – Used to add spice and depth without animal products.
“Cantina 109 demonstrates that vegetarian and vegan dishes can be just as rich and satisfying as traditional meat-based plates.”
Desserts
The dessert offerings at Cantina 109 provide a sweet conclusion to your meal, blending classic Mexican sweets with inventive modern touches. Each dessert is crafted to balance sweetness with texture and often features traditional ingredients like cinnamon, chocolate, and fresh fruit.
Whether you prefer something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, the dessert menu offers options that cater to a wide range of tastes. The desserts are designed to complement the bold flavors of the main courses without overwhelming the palate.
Popular desserts include:
- Churros with Chocolate Sauce – Crispy fried dough dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with a decadent dark chocolate dipping sauce.
- Flan de Cajeta – A creamy caramel custard made with goat’s milk caramel, offering a unique twist on a classic.
- Mango Sorbet – A refreshing and light option featuring ripe mangoes and a hint of lime.
Flavor and Texture Highlights in Desserts
| Dessert | Flavor Notes | Texture |
| Churros with Chocolate Sauce | Cinnamon, sweet, rich chocolate | Crispy exterior, soft interior |
| Flan de Cajeta | Caramel, creamy, slightly tangy | Smooth, silky |
| Mango Sorbet | Fruity, tart, sweet | Light, icy |
“Desserts at Cantina 109 offer a perfect harmony of tradition and innovation, leaving guests with a lasting impression of sweetness and satisfaction.”
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Cantina 109 is as thoughtfully curated as the food, featuring a diverse selection of cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks that complement the flavors of the cuisine. From classic margaritas to creative signature cocktails, the drinks menu enhances every dining experience.
The cocktail program emphasizes fresh ingredients, house-made syrups, and quality spirits. Additionally, the wine list focuses on Mexican and Latin American producers as well as select international labels, providing both familiar and unique pairings.
Featured drinks include:
- Classic Margarita – Made with freshly squeezed lime juice, premium tequila, and a hint of orange liqueur.
- Mezcal Paloma – A smoky twist on the traditional grapefruit soda cocktail, with mezcal and fresh citrus.
- Hibiscus Agua Fresca – A refreshing non-alcoholic option made from hibiscus flowers, lightly sweetened and served chilled.
Beverage Pairing Suggestions
| Dish | Recommended Beverage | Reason |
| Pollo en Mole Negro | Cabernet Sauvignon or Dark Beer | Rich flavors pair well with full-bodied drinks |
| Ceviche de Camarón | Hibiscus Agua Fresca or Light White Wine | Balances acidity and freshness |
| Al Pastor Tacos | Classic Margarita or Mezcal Paloma | Citrus and smoky notes complement spices |
“The beverage selection at Cantina 109 is crafted to elevate the dining experience, offering something for every taste and perfectly matching the bold flavors of the cuisine.”
Seasonal and Chef’s Specials
Cantina 109 regularly updates its menu with seasonal and chef’s specials that showcase the freshest ingredients and innovative culinary ideas. These specials allow the kitchen to experiment with new flavors and techniques while highlighting the best produce of the season.
These rotating dishes often feature rare ingredients or creative combinations that are not found on the regular menu. Diners can anticipate unique offerings that celebrate both Mexican culinary traditions and global influences.
Recent specials have included:
- Duck Carnitas – Slow-cooked duck with a crispy finish, served with pickled vegetables and a smoky mole sauce.
- Roasted Cauliflower Tacos – Cauliflower marinated in adobo spices, paired with a tangy slaw and avocado crema.
- Seasonal Fruit Paletas – Handcrafted frozen fruit pops featuring locally sourced fruits like guava and passionfruit.
Benefits of Seasonal Menu Items
- Freshness: Utilizes peak-season produce for optimal flavor.
- Variety: Offers guests new and exciting options to explore.
- Sustainability: Supports local farmers and reduces environmental impact.
- Creativity: Encourages chefs to innovate and refine their craft.
“Seasonal specials at Cantina 109 keep the menu dynamic and exciting, reflecting the changing landscape of ingredients and culinary inspiration.”
Conclusion
The Cantina 109 menu is a testament to the rich diversity and bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, thoughtfully curated to offer something for every diner. From vibrant appetizers and flavorful tacos to hearty entrees and indulgent desserts, each dish is crafted with care, attention to detail, and a deep respect for tradition.
With an emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and innovative preparation, Cantina 109 successfully bridges the gap between classic Mexican recipes and contemporary dining preferences. The extensive beverage list and rotating seasonal specials further enhance the experience, ensuring guests enjoy a meal that is both memorable and satisfying.
Whether you are a long-time fan of Mexican food or a curious newcomer, the Cantina 109 menu invites you to explore, savor, and celebrate the vibrant tastes of Mexico in an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming, and authentically inspired.
