"Turn here," I said as we approached Glacier Avenue in Redmond, progressing down a dark street with no signs of activity. "Are you sure this is right?" my partner asked. Google maps said we were where we should be. At the end of the street it looked like there were no open businesses, but around the
We pulled into the empty parking lot, the Mi Cantina Grill and neon beer signs glowing in the windows. Peeking through the windows, we didn't see a single person inside. It was a bit early, around five on a Saturday evening. We were hungry after a late afternoon run at Smith Rock.
I wasn't expecting much. The woman behind the bar looked small compared to the size of the room. You can find a restaurant that looks like this in every small town in the USA. The interior was basic but clean, with 12 or so standard four-top tables.
Opposite the real bar was another that could seat 30 or more. Tucked in the back of the restaurant was a stage set with musical instruments, microphones and lots of speakers. In the evening Mi Cantina Grill brings in bands or offers karaoke.
I was ravenous after our run so I didn't wait to dig
We started with an appetizer of guacamole the mucho tropical infused tequila margarita, arriving with both a stemmed glass with a chile salt-rim and a lime wedge garnish and a pint glass with the overflow. For $8, getting what felt like two drinks
My partner, meanwhile, wanted a tequila flight, available in the four standard tequila categories:
For the guacamole, we watched our server scoop out a ripe avocado and mash it in a bowl, adding chile, tomatoes, onions,
For
I have to agree with him. I was surprised at the deliciousness of the food. By the time our dinner was served the restaurant was filling up. I think it gets more crowded the later it gets; they are open late. The food at Mi Cantina Grill is approachable and the flavors subtle. You aren't going to be punched in the face with spice here but you will definitely get a filling, yummy meal. And hit that happy hour!
Mi Cantina Grill
413 SW Glacier Ave., Redmond
541-504-3329