La Cantina Stanford
Rated 4.5 in 168 Reviews
Authentic Mexican Flavours in the Heart of the Overberg
La Cantina Stanford brings the vibrant spirit of Mexico to the Overberg with its authentic street food, festive atmosphere and speciality tequila-based drinks. Opened in early 2023, this colourful eatery has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors looking for something different from the usual country fare.
Food & Drink
The menu centres around traditional Mexican dishes prepared in their wood-fired oven, giving everything that distinctive smoky flavour that's hard to find elsewhere in the region. Standout items include:
- Nachos - Available in half or full portions with chicken, beef, pork or veggie toppings
- Burritos - Hearty and flavourful, perfect with one of their signature sauces
- Tacos - Served in sets of two or three with various fillings
- Chilli Con Carne - A crowd favourite, especially paired with nachos
The drinks menu is where La Cantina truly shines. Their frozen margaritas are legendary in town, and they pride themselves on an extensive tequila selection. They also serve local wines, beers on tap, and spirits.
Atmosphere & Experience
With its colourful Mexican décor and laid-back vibe, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating areas that can accommodate up to 60 guests. The outdoor section is particularly popular during summer evenings and features a small play area for children.
La Cantina has become a social hub in Stanford, regularly hosting:
- Live music on Sundays - a perfect way to end the weekend
- Sports broadcasts on their big-screen TVs (with spontaneous happy hours during big games)
- Traditional Mexican celebrations like Cinco de Mayo and Day of the Dead
Local Tips
The restaurant can get quite busy, especially on weekends and during events, so booking ahead is recommended. If you're just popping in for drinks, the bar area usually has space even when the dining sections are full.
Dog owners will appreciate that well-behaved pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area - a rarity in the Overberg region.
If you're enjoying yourself too much to drive home, La Casita Self-Catering accommodation is available right next door - perfect for those margarita-heavy evenings.
Nearby Attractions
La Cantina makes a great stop after exploring the Hermanus wine region or as part of a day trip through the Overberg. It's well-positioned for visitors looking to experience Stanford's village charm before heading back to larger towns.
After your meal, take a stroll along Stanford's historic streets or work off those nachos with a walk along the Klein River that flows through town.
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