Sonora Cantina — Restaurant in Big Bear Lake

You can tell a lot about a restaurant when you go in as a table of one, or if you arrive less than an hour before closing. On this occasion, I was visiting Big Bear Lake and was looking for a place to dine - just myself; it was shortly after 8pm and many restaurants were closed or would at 9pm. I chose Sonora Cantina.

I drove right by at first, missing the driveway. But after turning around and into the parking lot, there was ample parking. You enter this restaurant from the parking lot, There was a gentleman in the bar (one of the first things you encounter) who was friendly and quickly took me to a booth.

The booths here are colorful artistry and everything felt very clean. The menu was lengthy and located at the table on a stand. The server very quickly offered a drink and returned quickly with it and some chips and salsa. The chips were perfectly cooked and salted, and the salsa was medium in spice, which really hit the spot.

I settled on a Chimichanga Combo made with shredded beef (you choose the meat). When it arrived, it was large and appealing. Guacamole and sour cream were included and were sufficient for the size of the meal. Everything was served piping hot.

The chimi was absolutely delicious, with tender and flavorful meat. There was no excess grease and the tortilla was lightly fried - not too soft or too crunchy. The beans were also very flavorful with a lot of cheese on top. The rice also had a pleasant flavor, and again - everything was nice and hot out of the kitchen.

I got full and had to give up well before I had eaten all of the feast placed before me. Throughout the meal, the server appropriately checked in on me and made sure all was well.

As a table of one and within an hour of closing, I could have had a bad experience. Not the case here: I was treated as a friend, never felt rushed or like I wasn't worth their time. Indeed, I had a wonderful meal and great service. I will be looking forward to stopping by again next time...

We came to this place for dinner. The environment was great since the very first second we came in. The tables are very close together, but definitely there is space to move around. The waitress was super nice. When I first started eating the chips and salsa, I could definitely tell that these were one of the best I have ever had. Their salsa was very good. I ordered a fried mojarra (whole fried tilapia). And my friends ordered enchiladas. I asked the waitress for some jalapeños toreados (fried roasted Jalapenos). She said, yes, but also asked me if I wanted the very spicy sauce they have... of course I said yes... she brought me this very hot red sauce that I myself called "The Sonora fire." Very hot salsa, but very tasty. The best salsa I have ever had in a restaurant. Delicious. If you like to eat spicy hot, ask for this salsa. For drinks we got the Margarita pitcher... Definitely a win point, they are very generous with the alcohol.

We got a complementary desert. To close for the night. Friend Icecream.... I loved it. I definitely recommend this place for Mexican food if you happen to be around the Big Bear...

We found this hidden gem a few years ago while visiting Big Bear. The first time we came we were staying across the street from the restaurant it was snowing this particular day but it was within walking distance from our cabin.

My first impression was that it was popular because people were waiting which is always a good sign that the food must be good.

The food was very good big portions too. The prices have gone up since but it's still very affordable. We always ordered the fajitas mix which has shrimp, beef, and chicken along with grilled onions and bell peppers. Don't forget to order a michelada they are probably the best ones I've tasted.

I saw the appetizer sampler today while we were eating and it was big enough for 3 people. I think I'll order that next time. So we can mix things up. The margaritas are really good too.

The staff is very friendly and they always asked if we need anything. I can't wait to come back. Today we just happened to be driving back from Vegas. I paid 52 dollars for our meal and still...