New Year's Eve Preview at Cantina Frida

TinTin Beligan
Dec 13, 2019
2 min read

Cantina Frida located in Beverly Hills just opened back in June. It is a sister restaurant to Frida Mexican Cuisine, which has several locations. It's the first Frida Cantina that is more upscale in New Mexican Cuisine, and draws in a lot of clientele. I went in this past Tuesday, and it was packed. This restaurant is vibrant and full of life. You can feel the energy when you walk in. The restaurant is spacious and has that modern ambiance. The first room you walk into is open to the general public, which has a bar, booth seating, and has the regular dining tables. The back room where I dined is for a private party, which was more intimate and not as loud. There is a second floor, which is a speakeasy. Of course it is a darker vibe with a full bar, and the room is shaped in a backwards L. I need to come back and have the full experience. They have Latin music playing, and I couldn't help but want to dance.

I was here to try out the Preview Dinner for New Year's Eve. I was very excited to try the dishes that they were serving. We were welcomed with Margaritas and Pomegranate Margaritas with Patron. A great way to start the evening. I especially enjoyed the Pomegranate Margarita. It was smooth and sweet. Just how I like it. Our options for the Appetizers (Botana) was the Tiradito de Hamachi or Lobster Sope. I would normally go for the Hamachi but was told that the Lobster Sope is amazing. They were right, it was so delightful. It is definitely a great appetizer to start with if you are hungry. There is a good portion of lobster that they give. So, I of course, I opted for the lobster. For our First course, we were given the option between the Crema Poblano or the Mango Salad. Again, I was swayed by suggestion the Crema Poblano was the winner. This was so flavorful and the Poblano was not overwhelming. The Main Course you can choose either Filet Pimenta, Branzino, or Langostinos. I am a seafood fan so I chose the Branzino. I loved the citrusy taste and how soft and tender it is. It was cooked to perfection. You can't leave without dessert so I tried the Sweet Potato Crumble and it was heavenly. To finish off our night we were given a champagne glass of Moet to celebrate. So if you are looking for a place to party on New Year's Eve. Cantina Frida is the place to be. This dinner will cost $120 per person. So make your reservations.