Amaury S
Caesar salad — that’s actually what keeps us going back to Cantina Calafia, and something I definitely didn’t expect from a Mexican-style restaurant.
We’ve been to Cantina Calafia a few times now (always for lunch; we still need to make it there for dinner) and have been really happy with our experience each time. The menu isn’t huge, but it’s the perfect size; a solid mix of salads, tacos, burritos, and other options. Everything we’ve tried has been really good.
For us, the star of the show is that Caesar salad. It’s so good we’ve gone back just for that and a cocktail. The anchovies, the cotija (which they do not skimp on), the lettuce, the dressing… it’s all perfectly balanced. Honestly, it might be my favorite salad in all of Portland. Note to staff: please don’t change the recipe.
Their cocktail menu is also super impressive, mostly mezcal and tequila-forward, but with a few other spirits here and there too. And we love the ambiance inside. The space feels airy, open, and inviting.
Service has always been great. The staff is kind and friendly, and while you could tell there were a few growing pains early on after they opened, they’ve worked those out, and it showssssss!
… moreElise Lehotsky
Okay so everyone was sad when Bonobo when bonobye but it’s cool because Calafia is a great hang. The mocktails are no joke, the chips and salsa option is fantastic and we left super full and sated. The CRAB CHURROS, yes you read correctly, CRAB, are amazing. Think crab cakes that are a great texture and delightful. The mushroom enchiladas were cheese and rich, really flavorful, and the pork milanesa is pounded to perfection with great texture and flavor.
… moreBETTY Rodriguez
Cantina Calafia is a charming hidden gem without a doubt! The food was absolutely delicious and yummy cocktails. We loved the ambiance and highly recommend:)
… moreMollie Dacey
my boyfriend and I are visiting from boston for new years and chose this as our NYE dinner spot, and it did not disappoint! I honestly wasn’t expecting much out of this place, but my expectations were surpassed. the vibe was really nice with all of the mood lighting, the staff was super friendly, and the food was delicious (& i’m not even huge on seafood). we got the carne asada fries, chipotle chicken, and fish tacos – all of which were so good. only gripe is that I reserved a “lounge” table and was seated at a tiny high top. other than that it was a great experience
… moreDan DiPaolo
there are restaurants that you can see are just comfortable with themselves the moment you walk through the door. this is one of those neighborhood places with a vibe that is comfortable and cool and friendly. there’s no chasing a star tenseness, just this is our food that we love and we can share with you. and the food is outstanding. thoughtful, delicious, and a touch playful (looking at you, jonah crab churros).
… moreCynthia
I always appreciate tight menus. Easy to choose and not making me overwhelmed. I ordered broiled oyster, full of flavour and bring me back to how restaurant served oyster in my home country.
Pozole rojo even though it’s in appetizer category but it’s actually a dinner size. Delicious and hearty
Also got matcha tress leches. I think this is the first time I ever had it in a corn cake format. Made in house, not sweet and the corn cake give good texture.
As for the drink I ordered pasionada, the combination of tequila and mezcal with passion fruit.
I ordered everything based on the bartenders recommendation. Totally enjoy the dinner experience here
… moreKathy Connor
Small restaurant with a menu that is changed up frequently. We were there as a foursome and we got a variety of dishes. I had the crab churros and a delicata squash salad. Both were delicious!
… moreMel Andrel
Almost gatekept this one for myself but the owners deserve all the hype for this Portland gem. Incredible food, atmosphere and service every time. Don’t skip dessert!
… moreAlyssa Reeb
Went here as part of a wine and food walk with wine wise events and it was FANTASTIC! The space is set up for cozy conversation and Portland desperately needed a place for Californian inspired fish tacos ❤️ they said they ALWAYS have space for walk ins!!! They have a taco window and happy hour everyday!
… moreAustin Gallas
We really enjoy this cozy place. Went with some friends to try out their tasting menu for restaurant week recently—all awesome selections. The crab churros were really fantastic. Fish tacos were also very good. Everything was reasonably priced. Plus they have Pacifico and Dos Equis on tap, which is fun and kind of unique. Great, friendly service. Decor and custom furniture are super cool. Great date night spot!
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