By JACKIE MOE
Calaca Mamas Cantina is more than just a meal; it’s a fiesta for the senses, offering an exciting dining experience steps away from Disneyland.
Owned by sisters Angela and Mariam El-Haj, this vibrant Día de Los Muertos-themed restaurant blends culture, flavor, and craft cocktails with flair.
The restaurant brings in vibrant colors and a beautiful altar at the front entrance, featuring heartfelt photos of the El-Haj family, setting the tone for a celebration of life and culture. Once inside, you’ll find that the menu, envisioned by Executive Chef Yen Wu, is a thoughtful blend of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with non-GMO and organic options that bring a modern twist to Mexican cuisine.
Kicking things off, freshly made tortilla chips, served alongside house salsa, immediately set the tone for the delicious evening. As for appetizers, the quesadilla, packed with gooey queso chihuahua, and the tlayuda, a crispy Oaxacan-inspired delight with layers of refried black beans, avocado, and cilantro, did not disappoint.
Thirsty? Look no further than their picturesque craft cocktails. The Mora Mora—a whiskey-forward, hibiscus-infused drink with muddled blackberries—and the Spice Up My Life, a cucumber-lime concoction with a kick of chile de árbol tequila, were not just flavorful but visually striking. Garnished with Día de Los Muertos skeletons perched on sticks, these drinks added to the festive atmosphere.
For the main course, the carne asada—tender skirt steak drizzled with salsa ranchera and topped with cotija—delivered on all fronts. The quesabirria tacos, with their crispy cheese crust, succulent shredded birria, and rich consommé, elevated the meal, leaving a lasting impression.
To conclude the fabulous dining experience, the churros came with a delightful show—firework sparklers that mirrored the Disneyland magic across the street. The warm churros were perfectly dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with dulce de leche and chocolate sauces, adding a sweet finale to the evening.
The atmosphere at Calaca Mamas Cantina is just as lively as the food. Disney-inspired decor, a small shop called “Retail Therapy” full of fun Disney items, and a bustling full bar give the space a unique charm. The outdoor patio, overlooking Harbor Blvd. with a fire pit, offers a cozy, family-friendly vibe and a view of Disneyland’s iconic lights.
Since opening in 2022, this locally sourced, non-GMO eatery has been making waves in Anaheim. Whether you’re there for the food, drinks, or just the fun, Calaca Mamas Cantina is worth multiple visits.
Calaca Mamas Cantina
WHERE: 1550 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802
More info: https://www.calacamamas.com/
