The Cantina Returns

The Cantina's getting the gang back together.

After a cold, foggy summer with nary a margarita to be found in town, tequila will flow again at a revamped Cantina in its old space in Blithedale Plaza. Just in time for our Indian Summer, the Cantina plans its reappearance in late September.

John Burns, vice president of operations for the Hodge Company, which owns the shopping center, and restaurant operations for Cantina, hired the original architect, Larry Walter of Sausalito, and the original interior designer, Marjon Huibers, to bring back the Cantina in a fresh but familiar way. Expect plenty of natural wood, recycled and sustainable whenever possible. Two new interior fire places will be added, as will a fire put in the patio area.

Chef José Luís Barba, who first ran the kitchen for the original Mill Valley Cantina 27 years ago, will be back behind the stove. Chef Barba's menu is still under development but old favorites such as super nachos, chiles rellenos, tacos and sizzling fajitas will be featured alongside updated Cal-Mex selections and weekly specials. Local and sustainable provisions will be sourced wherever possible.

In 2007, the Cantina was sold to Dudum Sports & Entertainment, which turned the place into Maria Maria a year later, with Carlos Santana as a partner. Maria Maria closed in April.

Burns plans to launch the new Cantina with dinner service and offer lunch and Sunday brunch approximately 2-3 months after opening. A children's menu is in the works and the bar will offer the dining room menu in appetizer-size portions. 

"Oh yes, our famous margarita will be back," Burns said, noting that the margarita will include fresh lime juice squeezed daily. A broad selection of tequilas (todos hecho in Mexico) and local and Mexican beers are also on tap.

"We are taking our cues from the community, and we welcome your feedback on the menu," Burns said.

Strawberry margarita, anyone?