Rise & Shine Restaurant Group has officially opened El Jardín Cantina in Liberty Station. Situated in the space that previously housed the group’s shuttered El Jardin, the revamped concept now lends a laidback atmosphere idyllic for sipping signature margaritas and indulging in piquant Mexican dishes.
Guests are welcomed into the 8,000-square-foot space under a bright canopy of colorful umbrellas and lush greenery, setting the mood for a picturesque dinner on the expansive outdoor patio space. The colors and feel of the patio continue inside thanks to a living plant wall, pops of bright blue from deep velvet booths, and a multi-tired, multi-colored light fixture.
On the culinary side, El Jardín Cantina offers dishes such as Lamb Barbacoa, Pollo En Mole, a variety of guacamole options, and a selection of specialty tacos sure to please any palate. For those looking to try a few different flavors, ‘flights’ are offered for the guacamole options, Mariscos, and even margaritas. There are several vegan options on the menu, including a Portobello Mushroom taco, or the Coco Veracruz, made with lime marinated coconut, Veracruz salsa, green olives, capers, and cilantro. Guests sitting indoors can watch the culinary team at work thanks to the open-air kitchen.
Libation-lovers can get their fill with the Hibiscus Paloma, built from hibiscus-infused tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice and Squirt, or their Na-ima-stay, comprised of blanco tequila, cucumber purée, lime juice and ancho verde. For groups of six seeking something to share, the One In A Melon cocktail is served in half of a watermelon, crafted from blanco tequila, mezcal, lime, watermelon and mineral water (limited number available per day). Wine lovers will find several varietal options from Valle de Guadalupe, among other regions, available by the glass or the bottle.
El Jardín Cantina is open for dinner and weekend brunch. Diners can enjoy happy hour with select shareables and drinks on special, and weekly date night pre-fixed menu is coming soon. Where: 2885 Perry Road.
Hours: Tuesdays-Fridays 4-9 p.m., Saturdays-Sundays 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
