Located in the heart of Greenwich, Boxcar Cantina is a vibrant dining destination where bold flavors and a lively atmosphere come together to create an unforgettable experience. Known for its inventive takes on classic Mexican dishes, the menu offers a diverse range of options that cater to every palate.
From fresh, handcrafted tacos to indulgent cocktails, Boxcar Cantina emphasizes quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods that bring the spirit of Mexico to the Connecticut coast. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a celebratory night out, the menu presents a wealth of choices designed to satisfy cravings and spark culinary curiosity.
The ambiance at Boxcar Cantina complements the menu perfectly, with colorful decor and a friendly staff that enhance the welcoming vibe. Diners can expect an experience that balances traditional flavors with contemporary twists, making it a hotspot for both locals and visitors.
The menu’s thoughtful curation reflects a passion for fresh produce, sustainable sourcing, and creative pairings, all of which contribute to the restaurant’s reputation for delivering dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Exploring the Boxcar Cantina Greenwich menu reveals a commitment to diversity and flavor, offering something for everyone. From vegetarian delights to hearty meat dishes and an impressive array of beverages, the menu invites guests to indulge in a Mexican culinary journey without ever leaving town.
Starters and Small Plates
The starters and small plates at Boxcar Cantina are designed to ignite the appetite and introduce diners to the vibrant flavors that define the menu. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light meal, offering a balance of textures and spices that complement each other beautifully.
Signature starters include house-made guacamole, which is prepared fresh at the table with ripe avocados, zesty lime, and a hint of jalapeño for a touch of heat. The chips served alongside are crispy and salted to perfection, making this classic starter a must-try.
Another popular choice is the street corn, grilled and coated with a creamy chipotle sauce, sprinkled with cotija cheese and fresh cilantro, delivering a smoky and tangy punch.
For those seeking something with a bit more substance, the pork belly sliders offer a rich, savory bite that pairs wonderfully with the restaurant’s homemade pickles and spicy aioli. Vegetarian options include the roasted cauliflower bites, tossed in a tangy adobo glaze and garnished with fresh herbs for a flavorful, meat-free alternative.
- Guacamole & Chips: Freshly made with avocado, lime, and jalapeño
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn with chipotle mayo and cotija cheese
- Pork Belly Sliders: Slow-cooked pork with spicy aioli and pickles
- Roasted Cauliflower Bites: Tossed in adobo sauce with fresh herbs
“The starters at Boxcar Cantina perfectly capture the essence of Mexican street food, bringing bold flavors and fresh ingredients to every bite.”
Tacos: The Heart of the Menu
Tacos are the cornerstone of the Boxcar Cantina experience, showcasing a variety of fillings, toppings, and homemade tortillas. Each taco is crafted to highlight distinct flavor profiles, offering guests the opportunity to explore different textures and tastes with every bite.
The menu features a range of options from traditional carnitas and barbacoa to innovative vegetarian and seafood choices. The tacos are served on hand-pressed corn tortillas, which are soft yet sturdy enough to hold generous fillings.
Each taco is garnished with fresh salsas, pickled onions, and a squeeze of lime to add brightness and balance.
One standout is the grilled fish taco, featuring fresh, flaky white fish marinated in citrus and spices, topped with crunchy cabbage slaw and a creamy chipotle sauce. For meat lovers, the slow-cooked barbacoa taco delivers tender beef infused with smoky flavors and subtle heat.
Vegetarian diners can enjoy the roasted sweet potato taco, enhanced by black beans, queso fresco, and a drizzle of avocado crema.
Taco Filling Comparison
| Filling | Flavor Profile | Key Ingredients | Spice Level |
| Carnitas | Rich, savory, slightly crispy | Pork, orange, cumin | Medium |
| Barbacoa | Smoky, tender, earthy | Beef, chipotle, garlic | Medium-High |
| Grilled Fish | Fresh, tangy, creamy | White fish, lime, cabbage | Low |
| Roasted Sweet Potato | Sweet, smoky, creamy | Sweet potato, black beans, queso fresco | Low |
Entrees and Larger Plates
For those seeking a more substantial meal, Boxcar Cantina offers a selection of entrees that showcase the depth of Mexican cuisine. These larger plates are crafted with care, featuring bold seasonings and fresh accompaniments that make every dish a satisfying centerpiece.
The chicken mole is a signature entree, where tender chicken is bathed in a rich, complex mole sauce made from a blend of chilies, chocolate, nuts, and spices. This dish balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes and is served with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete experience.
Another highlight is the skirt steak, marinated in a smoky adobo sauce and grilled to perfection. It’s accompanied by roasted vegetables and a zesty chimichurri sauce that adds brightness and herbaceous flavor.
For vegetarians, the stuffed poblano pepper filled with quinoa, black beans, and melted cheese offers a hearty and flavorful option.
- Chicken Mole: Tender chicken with rich, chocolate-infused mole sauce
- Grilled Skirt Steak: Marinated steak with chimichurri and roasted vegetables
- Stuffed Poblano Pepper: Quinoa, black beans, and cheese filling
- Sides: Mexican rice, refried beans, roasted vegetables
“Boxcar Cantina’s entrees turn traditional Mexican dishes into elevated culinary experiences that celebrate bold flavors and thoughtful preparation.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Boxcar Cantina ensures that vegetarian and vegan diners have plenty of delicious choices without compromising on flavor or creativity. The menu includes thoughtfully prepared dishes that highlight fresh vegetables, legumes, and plant-based proteins, all seasoned with authentic Mexican spices.
The roasted vegetable fajitas are a popular choice, featuring bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms sautéed with garlic and spices. Served sizzling hot with warm tortillas and guacamole, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
The vegan tacos, made with seasoned jackfruit or grilled tofu, offer a texture and flavor that rival their meat counterparts.
Additionally, the restaurant offers a vibrant black bean soup, rich with smoky chipotle and fresh herbs, perfect as a starter or light meal. These options demonstrate Boxcar Cantina’s commitment to inclusivity and culinary innovation.
Popular Plant-Based Dishes
- Roasted Vegetable Fajitas: Seasonal vegetables with spices, served with tortillas
- Jackfruit Tacos: Pulled jackfruit with smoky adobo seasoning
- Grilled Tofu Tacos: Marinated tofu with fresh salsa and avocado crema
- Black Bean Soup: Smoky, hearty, and garnished with cilantro
Vegetarian and vegan guests can enjoy a full spectrum of flavors without feeling limited, thanks to the creative approach taken by the kitchen.
Signature Cocktails and Beverages
The beverage menu at Boxcar Cantina is crafted to complement the food perfectly, featuring a wide array of signature cocktails, Mexican beers, and non-alcoholic options. The bar prides itself on using fresh ingredients and quality spirits to create drinks that elevate the dining experience.
One of the standout cocktails is the house margarita, made with fresh lime juice, premium tequila, and a touch of agave syrup, served on the rocks with a salted rim. For those looking for something more adventurous, the smoky mezcal mule combines mezcal, ginger beer, and lime for a refreshing yet complex flavor profile.
Non-alcoholic options include freshly made agua frescas, such as hibiscus and tamarind, which offer a sweet and tangy balance to the meal. The extensive tequila and mezcal selection allows connoisseurs to explore different profiles and find the perfect pairing for their dishes.
| Cocktail | Main Ingredients | Taste Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| House Margarita | Tequila, lime, agave syrup | Fresh, tangy, slightly sweet | Tacos, starters |
| Smoky Mezcal Mule | Mezcal, ginger beer, lime | Smoky, spicy, refreshing | Grilled meats, entrees |
| Hibiscus Agua Fresca | Hibiscus flowers, sugar, water | Sweet, tart, floral | Vegetarian dishes, light starters |
“The cocktails at Boxcar Cantina are a celebration of Mexican spirits, crafted with care to enhance every bite and bring a festive spirit to the table.”
Desserts to Savor
The dessert offerings at Boxcar Cantina provide a sweet conclusion to the flavorful journey. Each dessert is designed to balance richness with traditional Mexican flavors, ensuring a satisfying end to any meal.
The churros are a favorite, served hot and crispy with a side of chocolate dipping sauce made from rich, dark Mexican chocolate. These golden pastries are dusted with cinnamon sugar and offer a delightful contrast of textures.
Another popular choice is the tres leches cake, a moist sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk and topped with fresh whipped cream and berries.
For those seeking something lighter, the seasonal fruit sorbet provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing option. These desserts showcase the kitchen’s dedication to quality and authenticity, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
- Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Crispy, cinnamon-sugar dusted pastries
- Tres Leches Cake: Moist sponge cake soaked in milk, topped with cream
- Seasonal Fruit Sorbet: Light, refreshing, and naturally sweet
Specials and Seasonal Offerings
Boxcar Cantina frequently updates its menu with specials and seasonal dishes that highlight the freshest ingredients available. These offerings showcase the chef’s creativity and provide an opportunity to enjoy unique flavors that aren’t part of the regular menu.
Seasonal specials might include dishes featuring local produce like heirloom tomatoes or seasonal seafood such as fresh shrimp or scallops, prepared with Mexican-inspired spices and sauces. These plates often pair well with rotating cocktails or featured wines, creating a dynamic dining experience that evolves throughout the year.
The specials menu also includes limited-time appetizers and desserts, encouraging repeat visits and culinary exploration. These thoughtfully crafted dishes celebrate the changing seasons while staying true to Boxcar Cantina’s vibrant and authentic flavor profile.
“Rotating specials at Boxcar Cantina keep the menu fresh and exciting, ensuring guests always have something new to discover.”
Conclusion
Boxcar Cantina in Greenwich offers a menu that is truly a celebration of Mexican cuisine, combining authentic flavors with innovative twists that keep every visit exciting. Each section of the menu—from starters to desserts—reflects a commitment to quality, freshness, and creativity that resonates with a wide range of diners.
Whether indulging in the rich complexity of mole, savoring the freshness of handmade tacos, or enjoying a perfectly crafted cocktail, guests are treated to a vibrant culinary experience that delights the senses.
The restaurant’s dedication to inclusivity is evident in its thoughtfully prepared vegetarian and vegan options, as well as its rotating specials that embrace the best of each season. This dynamic approach to menu design ensures that Boxcar Cantina remains a beloved fixture in the Greenwich dining scene.
With every dish and drink, the menu invites guests on a flavorful journey that honors tradition while embracing modern tastes. For those seeking a lively atmosphere paired with exceptional food and drink, Boxcar Cantina’s menu delivers on all fronts with authenticity and flair.
