La Nena Cantina — Restaurant in Malibu

My wife and I had a great experience at La Nena Restaurant and Cantina in Malibu. We started with the Consomé de Pollo (chicken soup), and it was exactly what we were hoping for - flavorful, and hearty. The soup was generously filled with tender chicken, carrots, a bit of rice, and just a touch of celery. It had a homemade feel and was perfect to start our meal. We also ordered the Taco Combination Plate to sample a variety of tacos, and it did not disappoint. Each taco had its own unique flavor, and the meats were well-seasoned and fresh. It was a great way to try several options and get a feel for their taco offerings. The chicken taco was a bit on the dry side—it seemed like the chicken might have been cooked earlier and then grilled again, which affected the texture. However, the chicken mole, pork, and carne asada tacos were all very good, each offering rich, well-balanced flavors. The chicken soup was excellent from the start. After my wife enjoyed her half, I added a squeeze of lime and a bit of their green salsa to mine, which took it to the next level—absolutely delicious!

Overall, the food was delicious, the portions were satisfying, and the atmosphere was welcoming. We’ll definitely be...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ • Food: Excellent quality — crispy quesadillas, flavorful tacos (carne asada & fish were standouts), and loaded nachos perfect for sharing. • Ambiance: Cozy but stylish, modern décor with a fine-dining touch even though the space is small. Great atmosphere for a stop along Hwy 1. • Service: Friendly, attentive, and welcoming. • Value: Prices are on the higher side (expected for Malibu / Hwy 1), but worth it for the quality and setting. • Tip: Order appetizers like nachos and quesadillas if you’re with a group — large portions that can easily fill everyone. • Overall: A must-stop restaurant on Hwy 1 — small, refined, feels more like fine dining, with amazing food...

My husband and I stumbled across this place when we were driving up the coast. The food was delicious. We both liked what we ordered and the guacamole was wonderful. We sat at a high table and the seating was not very comfortable. Your feet dangle and have no where to go and there is minimal back support. Thr food came out fast once it was ordered but it tool a while for our waiter to come take our order and he didn't come back after delivering our food until we had been done for a but and were waiting for our check. Overall great food and...