Baja Cantina & Grill

I tried so hard to find a Mexican good restaurant that we could eat at safely. I called 6 different places in the Monterey area. I finally spoke to a manager at Baja and was reassured. So the next day I called ack to place my order. They stated they can’t promise they are celiac safe. Ok, I said. I’ll take my chances. I ordered about 1 hour ahead of time and the bartender said it would be ready in 20mi. I asked them not to put in the order and that I would call back when I was 20 min out. I called back and ordered. When I arrived, the bartender indicated that he had not submitted the order. So I sat and waited. When the food came out there as no discussions about the precautions taken. I felt so dismissed like I was inconveniencing him. Nothing was marked or labeled though we had also ordered gluten-containing foods for my other family members. I was too emotional to speak to the manager. I have zero confidence in this food for which I just spent $100.

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

— Not at all

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Not Much/None

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

— Poor

Separate gluten free menu with lots of details on substitutions. Unclear what really happened in the kitchen. It seems the chance for cross contamination is high, but they seem used to dealing with it. Fun place to visit.

I had a very good experience here, they are extremely careful and their GF menu is very clear as to what they can serve. They clearly state their chips are not celiac safe. The manager and server were very attentive to my questions and did a great job. Huge portions as well!

Celiac friendly?

Yes

I ordered fish tacos off of their gluten free menu. I was sick before I left the place - be very careful. Their gluten free menu lists tortilla chips as gluten free - however they cook them in the same oil as items with flour. I did not eat them but somehow still got very sick.

Delicious food and some spicy salsa! Live music fri and sat nights and the decor is all authentic car and racing pics/signs adorning the walls. Chicken Mole was great not too salty, sweet, or chocolatey. Quite loud and lively so it may not be the best if you are looking for a quiet dinner.

Service was average, but the food was amazing. Good sized GF menu. We had the mango enchiladas and the Yucatan pork enchiladas. Both were great, but the mango were the best. Came with beans and coconut rice. Just visiting the area and needed an option for two celiacs and an 18 month old. The patio was a wonderful option for us in case the little guy got loud. Definitely would recommend and wish we had something like this near where we live in Michigan.

Celiac friendly?

Yes

It is really, really good. Worth the drive, beautiful setting.