Terrace Cantina — Restaurant in Oakbrook Terrace

It is always a welcome surprise when an exploratory outing results in an unforgettable experience.

Terrace Cantina; delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine served ever so beautifully in the most trendy, aesthetically- pleasing setting I've seen over the course of my suburban excursions.

Due to the fact I went a bit overboard with the attached media, I will attempt to keep this review concise (to the very best of my ability).

So let's get started with a Top 5 list.

1. atmosphere- I implore you to skim the attached media. The owner(s) of Terrace Cantina must have had a very specific vision for the setting of this visually-appealing eatery (funky, mod-industrial vibes with a throwback, nostalgia-inducing feel). Incredibly well-executed design, in my opinion. Smart optimization of space in terms of floor plan, multiple variations of seating arrangement to cater to any party size, multiple TVs visible from most angles for those interested, minimalist decor with unique overhead lighting, and a most captivating mural spanning the entire entry wall. Such a fun place to be.

2. meal- all portions served (including plates with multiple sides such as fajitas, rice&beans, etc) were shareable/ take-home friendly (this was exciting to me; as I am a proud leftover queen) . Everything was so incredibly flavorful yet not overdone; authentic seasoning and taste, fresh ingredients (all veggies wonderfully crisp, cheeses and sauces of high quality), temperature of all items ordered near perfect; presentation of every single plate was absolutely lovely (+5 points for aesthetic appeal).

3. menu versatility- I've been to places that charge separately for additional toppings (as they have every right to do) yet refuse to put more than a pinch of said topping on the plate, or dismiss the request altogether; there was none of that here. When I asked for certain sauces or extra of a topping, it was done and done well. Also, no-meat dishes were easy to find on the menu; there were vegetarian options available (several) and opportunities for customization of almost every dish. I will expound upon this in the "vegetarian selection" section below.

4. service- just exemplary all-around. The attendant overseeing our table was incredibly kind; all menu items ordered were brought out expeditiously, appetizer well-timed from the meal, etc. He was also extremely attentive throughout, and brought us extra bags with our leftovers. This thoughtful gesture was meaningful as the extra bags assisted us greatly with divvying up leftovers.

5. affordability- for the quality of ingredients, portion-size, and superb taste of everything ordered; I had anticipated a much larger bill. Needless to say, we both stayed under budget and had plenty of leftovers; there wasn't a single item ordered with inflated price, which solidified the experience as a must-return in my book.

Other notable facets of this extraordinary eating include; the most charming outdoor patio, ample parking space, clear signage and neat, tidy restrooms.

Terrace Cantina, thank you for an unforgettable experience.

Another gem...

ATTENTION: THIS IS A RESPONSE TO A NEGATIVE REVIEW LEFT BY “Q”

let me get the story straight. We walked in at mid night asking if the kitchen was still open and the owner told us that the bar is only open until 2am and kitchen closes at 12 right at the time we arrived. We told him we could leave and find somewhere else after he told us he can talk to his chiefs to see if they are willing to take a table of 6 after A LONGGG BUSY SATURDAY. They were willing to take one last order for us knowing we will have no luck finding no where else, we were already here.. so thank you and the workers and the owner for going above and beyond there normal protocols. Q arrived 20 min after and lied to the server that they can order food after WE HEARD THE OWNER TELL THEM they are only allowed to order drinks the kitchen has been closed. They began to proceed to only order drinks. 10 min go by we receive our food and they receive there drinks and leave right as soon as they get there drinks and laugh LOUDLY as they walk out. It’s sad to see the only go above and beyond for these people and for them to lie is ridiculous. THANK YOU FOR YOUR DRINKS YOU ORDERED Q. WE DEFINITELY WASNT A GROUP FULL OF HISPANICS! LMAO! GREAT SERVICE. GREAT FOOD. GREAT ATMOSPHERE...

Wanted to relax with a drink and food after changing an unexpected flat tire. Did not disappoint. Atmosphere was welcoming, drinks were good and food was delicious! I was warmly greeted and seated even after explaining i needed to wash the tire dirt and grime from my hands:) the drinks were very yummy with fresh ingredients- no cheap premix here! The chicken & shrimp fajitas were fire! You could tell the food was fresh and made to order. No precooked reheat served here. The chicken was juicy, there was plenty of medium shrimp and the mix of peppers to onion ratio was plentiful. The seasoning was on point, not overwhelming but just enjoy that it didn't need sauce or any cover-up. The pico mmm pico degallo ;) was scrumptious. The food and drinks were as good or even better than what I would make for entertaining. The owner Edgar was nice and was interested in what I, as a consumer had to say about my experience food and drinks. He openly talked of his thoughts and changes and sought out my preferences and wants as a new and soon to be regular patron * did I not mention how incredibly the food was in addition to the well-balanced margaritas. Also, corner lot with ample parking! This place will only get...