Encino’s dining scene has been steadily evolving, with new restaurants blending modern style and timeless culinary traditions. Yet when it comes to Mexican dining in Encino, one name keeps coming up again and again: Anejo Cantina Grill. Known for its vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and welcoming atmosphere, Anejo has quickly become a favorite for families, couples, and anyone craving an authentic yet elevated Mexican dining experience.
This guide is more than just a review—it’s a deep dive into what makes Anejo Cantina Grill the best Mexican dining destination in Encino. From its history and design to its standout dishes and insider tips, we’ll cover everything you need to know before booking a table.
The Rise of Anejo Cantina Grill
When Anejo Cantina Grill opened its doors in Encino, locals were excited but cautious. After all, Los Angeles is home to countless Mexican restaurants, from street taco trucks to upscale eateries. What would set this one apart?
The answer revealed itself quickly: Anejo combines the soul of traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern, upscale cantina vibe. The restaurant succeeds in appealing to a wide range of diners—families with kids, professionals looking for a lively happy hour, couples seeking date night energy, and foodies searching for authentic flavors with a polished twist.
The Atmosphere: A Blend of Festive and Elegant
Step inside Anejo Cantina Grill, and you’re immediately struck by its balance of comfort and sophistication.
- Décor: Think rustic wood tables, colorful murals, ambient lighting, and just enough modern accents to feel fresh without losing authenticity.
- Vibe: Lively, warm, and welcoming. On weekends, expect energy from both the bar and the dining room, while weekday lunches often feel more relaxed.
- Seating Options: From cozy booths for families to bar seating for happy hour, the restaurant accommodates different moods and groups.
✅ Culinary Passages Tip: Ask for patio seating on warm evenings. Anejo’s outdoor setup offers a vibrant street-side energy perfect for Encino nights.
The Menu: Authenticity Meets Innovation
What truly cements Anejo Cantina Grill as Encino’s best Mexican dining is its menu. Rooted in traditional recipes but not afraid to innovate, the dishes reflect both comfort and creativity.
Starters to Share
- Tableside Guacamole: A show and a dish rolled into one. Fresh avocados mashed to order with customizable heat.
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese with chorizo, served bubbling hot. Pair with fresh tortillas.
- Ceviche: Bright, citrusy, and perfect for lighter beginnings.
Tacos Worth Talking About
Tacos are at the heart of Mexican cuisine, and Anejo delivers. Options include:
- Al Pastor: Marinated pork with pineapple—sweet, savory, and smoky.
- Carne Asada: Tender steak topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa verde.
- Baja Fish: Crispy battered fish with tangy slaw and chipotle crema.
- Vegetarian Options: Roasted cauliflower or mushrooms with bold spices.
✅ Insider Tip: Try the Taco Sampler Platter if it’s available. It’s the best way to taste a range of flavors in one meal.
Entrees for Bigger Appetites
- Mole Poblano: A rich, complex sauce over chicken that showcases Anejo’s dedication to authenticity.
- Enchiladas Suizas: Creamy tomatillo sauce, tender fillings, and melted cheese.
- Carne Asada Plate: Juicy grilled steak with rice, beans, and tortillas.
- Camarones al Mojo de Ajo: Shrimp sautéed in garlic butter—simple but unforgettable.
Sides and Extras
Rice, beans, roasted corn, and sautéed vegetables are staples here. Even the side dishes feel elevated.
Drinks: A Cantina Done Right
No Mexican dining experience is complete without drinks, and Anejo shines here too.
- Margaritas: From classic lime to creative flavors like mango-chili or hibiscus.
- Tequila Flights: Explore Anejo, Reposado, and Blanco varieties with guided tasting notes.
- Craft Cocktails: Mezcal-based creations, palomas, and sangrias.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Agua frescas in flavors like horchata, tamarind, and hibiscus—perfect for kids or non-drinkers.
✅ Parent Tip: Agua frescas are a hit with kids—they feel special but aren’t sugary sodas.
Dessert: Sweet Endings Worth Saving Room For
Anejo Cantina Grill doesn’t phone it in when it comes to dessert. Highlights include:
- Churros: Crispy on the outside, soft inside, dusted with cinnamon sugar, and served with dipping sauces.
- Flan: Creamy and classic with just the right sweetness.
- Tres Leches Cake: Moist, decadent, and topped with fresh whipped cream.
The Anejo Cantina Grill Experience
What makes Anejo stand out isn’t just the food—it’s the entire dining experience.
- Service: Attentive without being intrusive. Staff are happy to explain menu items and offer pairing suggestions.
- Energy: Lively but never chaotic. Perfect for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just surviving a long week.
- Flexibility: Equally suited for a casual taco night or a dressed-up date.
Family-Friendly Meets Upscale
Though this post focuses on upscale dining without kids, it’s worth noting that Anejo strikes an impressive balance. Families with kids often feel welcome, but the vibe is elevated enough that couples without kids never feel out of place.
✅ Best Parent Hack: Book a date night here without the kids, then return another time with them. You’ll experience Anejo in two completely different (but equally enjoyable) ways.
Community Connection
Anejo Cantina Grill isn’t just another restaurant—it’s part of Encino’s growing culinary identity. Locals appreciate its consistency, while newcomers often leave impressed by the mix of authenticity and modernity.
The restaurant also supports community events and embraces seasonal celebrations, adding to its neighborhood appeal.
Insider Tips for Dining at Anejo Cantina Grill
- Make Reservations: Weekends can get busy. Book ahead to secure a good table.
- Go During Happy Hour: Enjoy smaller plates and discounted drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Ask About Specials: Seasonal dishes or off-menu items often showcase the chef’s creativity.
- Parking: Street parking is available, but valet is your easiest bet during peak hours.
- Dress Smart Casual: Upscale enough to dress nicely, but not overly formal.
Why Anejo Stands Out Among Encino Restaurants
Encino offers plenty of Mexican restaurants, but Anejo Cantina Grill stands out because it:
- Balances authenticity with creativity.
- Provides an upscale atmosphere without being pretentious.
- Welcomes both date nights and family outings.
- Offers a full bar program that rivals LA’s best cantinas.
This combination makes it a rare gem: a restaurant that truly offers the best Mexican dining in Encino.
Final Thoughts: Anejo Cantina Grill as Your Go-To
Los Angeles is full of incredible Mexican dining, but in Encino, Anejo Cantina Grill reigns supreme. From its flavorful tacos and indulgent entrees to its margaritas and desserts, Anejo offers a complete experience that satisfies both casual diners and those seeking something more upscale.
If you’re in Encino and craving a night of authentic flavors in a vibrant yet refined setting, Anejo Cantina Grill is your answer. Whether you’re celebrating, reconnecting with your partner, or simply in the mood for great food, you’ll find it here.
So go ahead—make that reservation. Order the margarita, share the churros, and let Anejo remind you why Mexican dining in Encino doesn’t get better than this.
