Sonora Cantina - 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 I am in town!

Service: Dine in Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $10–20 Food: 4 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Recommended dishes: Chile Relleno

Outstanding! Very authentic and the staff was amazing.

Great margaritas!! Customer for more than 20 yrs. Maria is a wonderful ambassador for Big Bear. Update....2 margaritas, 2 tacos 1 cheese quesadilla....$60. Too much for too little.

Fast take out service, Excellent prices, and Great Tasting Quality Food!