The Church Cantina — Restaurant in Tacoma

Amazing Food! Great atmosphere!! The absolute poorest design possible…

TL;DR: Get take out. Sit down for lunch. Do NOT go for dinner or late night if you’re looking for food and more than 1-2 drinks. 2/5 stars because that was the percentage of time we were able to sit and enjoy things and not stand in line.

Church’s is so good yet so frustrating. The food and drinks are always phenomenal. Cuban influences are hard to find and the kitchen staff nail it every time. BUT at dinner and late night, your experience will always be blunted and extremely limited by the Line of Purgatory.

If there is a line leading to the bar, I suggest you turn around and leave. It’s too busy for this place to handle effectively. When there is a line, every patron who wants to order (anything including first drink/food or refills and additional food) or close a tab must wait in line while the bartenders make each drink. This is the case when sitting at the bar too. Well, this is the case unless you seem to know the bartender. I watched the bartenders both force folks to cash out after waiting in line and just do it themselves like a normal establishment. May the odds be in your favor, I guess.

Btw, you must show ID to sit at the bar but you’re not allowed to order from there. Just seems funny they have the bandwidth to require that but can’t possibly take your order from your seat.

The line usually stays long which means in the hour we were there, we were in line for well over half of it. That’s a fine ratio for a music festival for college kids, but not ideal for adults in a restaurant genuinely wanting to give you money for an excellent and well thought out products. I’m sure there is a legit reason the managers made this system, but it just seems ridiculous that there is skee ball, a photo booth, and a pool table in the place but limited tables and NO wait staff. I do mean this is the nicest way possible, the place needs to mature and grow up a little if they want to attract adults long term. Your food tells me you want to be a great food spot but your systems tell me you don’t...

Embracing the Dark Delights at The Church Cantina

When darkness entwines with culinary splendor, it births an extraordinary experience, as is the case with The Church Cantina on South Tacoma Way. This unique restaurant redefines the dining experience with its carefully orchestrated horror theme, while delivering mouthwatering Cuban-inspired cuisine to its patrons.

As soon as you step into The Church Cantina, you are greeted with an ambiance that is eerily atmospheric yet welcoming in its unique way. The décor is an immersive, macabre spectacle that elicits an intriguing blend of chills and fascination. Expect to find yourself ensconced in an ethereal realm that resembles a gothic novella's pages. It is a deliciously dark adventure that is not for the faint of heart but most certainly for those who cherish memorable dining experiences.

Contrasting its darkly elegant setting, The Church Cantina's cuisine is a radiant burst of flavors. The Cuban-inspired menu is a delightful array of exotic dishes, where traditional recipes are infused with innovative twists. Every dish transports you on a culinary voyage to Cuba, the land known for its vibrant food culture, filled with spices, colors, and textures.

And do not forget to sample their signature cocktails. Each drink is a crafted wonder, designed to complement the food and the ambiance. The 'Dark Daiquiri', inspired by the Cuban classic, but with a tantalizing touch of mystery, is a must-try.

To top it all, the staff at The Church Cantina are warm and professional. Despite the eeriness of the surroundings, their friendly service ensures you feel comfortable and well cared for.

In summary, The Church Cantina is an atmospheric getaway for the adventurous soul, a place where the boundaries between dining and art blur. With its wonderfully chilling horror theme and an impeccable array of Cuban-inspired dishes, this South Tacoma Way gem offers an unparalleled gastronomical journey. It's an indulgence worth experiencing, especially for those who love to dabble in the...

As a horror nerd, I don't fit in well at the local sports bar. My wife had suggested this place for months and the food, on menu, looked great. I knew nothing of the atmosphere. Finding the place was a little challenging, although I should have spotted the hearse way before I walked in the door. The outdoor seating was mostly abandoned, but the indoor seating was comfortably full. This place made my happy meter jump as soon as I walked in. Service is mostly at the bar but the staff constantly is moving throughout, delivering food, bussing and checking in on you. All of them were engaging and friendly. The patronage was an eclectic mix. There were a couple of celebratory gatherings when I got there but the regulars had started showing up as I was leaving. Control the jukebox and you can make the Church even more lively. The Church has ample dining and gathering space, a side room with a pool table and pinball machines. The bar portion of the establishment is the only portion where minors are not allowed. With the exception of 12 bar seats and a tiny table inside the 'prohibited' area, the rest of the house is kid friendly. The food was fantastic. The black bean dip was savory with a hint of Southwest spices and we downed the ample serving with chips. We had the Cherry Mole' sliders and the Chimichurri Churasco. We ordered sweet potato fries and savory line crema with our sandwiches. Everything was well portioned and delicious with a generous nod to the spices of old Mexico. Drinks were not your typical selection but well made and tasty. Tried the strawberry apocalypse and the holy water. Both were fruity and savory. Our total came to 52.00 for an app, 2 drinks, a soda, and 2 entrees. I highly recommend this newer establishment. Give them a chance to grow this place into what it should be- a dark, ethereal, fun bar with great food...