For those of you previously familiar with La Cantina, you will notice that there have been dramatic changes to the building, the seating areas, and the menu. These have all happened when the original building was torn down and the new La Cantina and La Hacienda - Epcot's newest Table Service Restaurant were built in an expanded area on the waterfront. Both restaurants are operated by the same company that runs the San Angel Inn Restaurant in the Mexico Pavilion.
The new building is much more ornate than the previous one and fits well with the architecture of the pavilion. The seating now extends out into the water much more and was designed to give excellent views of Illuminations at the end of each evening.
Although La Cantina now shares a building with La Hacienda the entrance is well marked and easy to find. It is located on the northern side of the building which is closest to the Future World part of Epcot.
The Menu
The new menu is limited, but comes with authentic Mexican choices. The entrees are:
- Tacos de Carne - Grilled beef tacos served on fresh handmade corn tortillas with Pico de Gallo, lime and corn tortilla chips.
- Empanados de Queso - Fried corn mesa (dough) filled with Chihuahua cheese topped with green sauce, served with corn tortilla chips.
- Tacos de Pollo - Grilled chicken served on fresh homemade corn tortillas with Pico de Gallo, lime and corn tortilla chips.
- Nachos - Corn tortilla chips topped with ground beef, nacho cheese, tomatoes, jalapenos, black beans, and sour cream.
- Guacamole con Totopos - Corn Tortilla chips accompanied by handmade guacamole.
There is also a Children's menu that offers a choice of Cheese Empanada or Chicken Tenders for children aged 3 - 9.
During a recent visit I tried the Tacos de Pollo. The food was true to the description. The chicken was freshly grilled and served in a fresh handmade corn tortilla. The Pico de Gallo was excellent and tasted like it was freshly made. Although I considered the food to be overpriced even compared to other Disney World food I could not fault the quality of the food which I thought was excellent.
Others dining nearby were enjoying the nachos and other dishes on the menu. I did not hear any complaints about the quality of their food and it all looked great.
La Cantina Is Worth Visiting
La Cantina de San Angel has made many changes from the previous incarnation. The new and improved version is certainly worth visiting if you enjoy authentic Mexican food or are interested in trying authentic Mexican food. If you are not sure if you are ready to try either the San Angel Inn or the La Hacienda de San Angel this would be a good way to introduce yourself to the Mexican cuisine.
In addition to soft drinks, bottled water, and coffee you can also get Dos Equis Draft Beer and Margaritas here to go with your meal.
The seating areas are much improved and the views of the water, especially at night are wonderful. This is probably the nicest eating area of all of the Quick Service Dining locations at Epcot.
Lastly, La Cantina de San Angel participates on the Disney Dining Plan for one Quick Service Credit.
We were fortunate to eat here our last trip (Dec 2010). Great view of IllumiNations. The chicken tacos were excellent. My daughter made me go back and purchase a second cheese empanada meal since she enjoyed the first one so much. Highly recommended!