Review of Latina Cantina

This restaurant is fairly new and I think they still need to iron out some kinks. That being said, I enjoyed my food, and I will definitely dine at Latina Cantina again.

Most food items on the menu are gluten free. The menu is labeled, but it’s not entirely correct. For example, under small bites, it says all items are GF. However, the empanadas in that section are not GF. If I didn’t mention my dietary restriction to the server, I would have ordered the empanadas and gotten very sick. Additionally, prices online don’t match the in-house menu (ex. sauces are $2.00 a pop but advertised as 50 cents each). Hopefully the restaurant can label and reprint menus ASAP. My server had to double check with the kitchen several times to confirm what was actually GF, which was a bit frustrating. The tortilla chips are cooked in a fryer with gluten-containing ingredients, so they are not safe for those with extreme gluten intolerance. However, the chef mentioned he could make a GF batch, but I’d have to wait. The menu needs to mention this. The street corn is served with the chips IN the corn. I wasn’t expecting that as it wasn’t mentioned on the menu. Had to send it back for a non-contaminated batch. I ordered the street corn and chorizo tacos. The food was delicious and flavorful, but a bit salty, so keep that in mind.

The restaurant is small. About 60% of the space features regular tables / booths, while the bar and bar tables take up 40%. Luckily they accept reservations, and I recommend making one, especially if your party is larger than four people. Parking is a bit tight.

They offer two happy hours every day and night: 3 - 6 pm and 10 pm - 12 am.

Regardless of your party’s size, there is an automatic 20% service fee, which should be labeled as a gratuity to avoid confusion.

I did not get sick, but I am giving three hearts for safety because of the questionable labeling of the menu and my server’s unfamiliarity with which items are GF. Both are quick fixes. It is very difficult for gluten-intolerant folks to dine out safely, so having a good reputation will bring in more business, especially since Black Rock Social House, which had a GF kitchen, just closed for good.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Somewhat

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Most/All

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Good